Virtual events are gaining popularity across all industries, and for good reason. They offer event organisers the opportunity to eliminate many of the challenges that come with traditional live events- from venue restrictions to budget constraints. But before you jump on board, it’s important to make sure you’re aware of some common virtual event myths so that your risk management strategy is as informed as possible. This blog post will bust some of the most popular myths and help you make an informed decision on whether or not your next event should be virtual.
Myth 1: People aren’t interested in attending online events
It is not surprising that live events are a mainstay in many industries. But with the emergence of virtual and augmented reality technologies as well as venue and event restrictions due to COVID-19, physical event participation has been on the decline for some time now.
Many large events are starting to incorporate virtual features and becoming hybrid events. Yet, there is still a lot of uncertainty about the online market for these types of events. But when companies were forced into this position due to circumstances like high costs or travel distances, many found that they had more success with an all-online event than ever before. One year ago those who would have never attended live because it was too far away or unaffordable may now be attending online in record numbers thanks to how easy it has become–more people can enjoy their favorite speakers without leaving the comfort of home.
Myth 2: Virtual events cannot be monetized
Virtual events have been monetized in similar ways to physical events. Just like a brick-and-mortar event can be sponsored, so too can virtual one. A post-event promotion following any kind of event is also something that should not go overlooked – even if the whole event happened online. Sponsorship opportunities are plentiful both within an environment as well as its outskirts: spaces, booths, and other locations make up excellent sponsorship options for those who want their brand seen by many more people than they might otherwise get through traditional marketing methods.
Myth 3: It’s too complicated to hold virtual events
Creating a virtual event can be intimidating, but they are not more complicated than physical events. When you host an in-person gathering, there is usually someone else handling many of the details for you–you don’t have to worry about food or seating arrangements because it’s all been taken care of by your team. When you host a virtual event, it can be just as beneficial to have the right people in place before any problems arise. As long as they are ready and prepared for anything that might happen technologically speaking, you’ll be all set.
Myth 4: Engagement is limited in a virtual environment
There are so many creative and insightful ways to engage your audience at a virtual event. You could be the person who makes it all about them, or you might want to use props such as videos that show what’s happening in real-time on stage.
Myth 5: Virtual events aren’t going to last
Virtual events will remain a popular way for organizations to reach their fans despite the world’s return to normalcy. Virtual presentations are not as immersive or interactive but they offer many benefits including lower costs, global access, and increased flexibility – making virtual conferences an excellent choice during this time of uncertainty in our society.
Virtual events have the potential to be much more than a temporary fix for this industry. They allow attendees the convenience of not having to travel, which means they can attend from anywhere in the world or even at home. Virtual events also provide sponsors with monetization opportunities and event organizers valuable data-collection opportunities by tracking audience reactions as well as time spent on specific activities onstage and around their booths so that these experiences are improved for future virtual participants.
