How to Use a Virtual Event Platform

The world's changed. We connect, learn, and do business differently now. Virtual events? They're a big deal. They're easier to get to, can handle more people, and cost less than old-school in-person events. But just picking any virtual event thingy isn't enough. You need to really know how to use a virtual event platform to make it work.

What's a Virtual Event Platform, Anyway?

First, let's get this straight. A virtual event platform is just a program that lets you do events online. Some are simple, like a video call. Others are fancy, like a real conference, but online. Here's what they usually have:

• Live streaming: Watch people talk in real-time.
• Interactive stuff: Ask questions, do polls, chat with others.
• Networking: Meet and talk to other people.
• Exhibitor booths: See what different companies have to offer.
• Registration: Sign up and get your ticket.
• Stats: See how many people came and what they did.

Picking the right one? It depends on what you need. How many people? How complicated is your event? How much do you want people to talk to each other? Here are some popular ones:

• Hopin
• Zoom Events
• Bizzabo
• Airmeet
• vFairs

Okay, How Do I Actually Use One? Step-by-Step

1. What's the Point?

Before you even log in, ask yourself: What do I want to get out of this event? Do you want to:

• Find new customers?
• Get your name out there?
• Teach people something?
• Make a community?
• Show off a new product?

What you want will change what you need. Need new customers? Then focus on getting their info!

2. Picking the Right Tool

Like I said, picking the right platform is key. Think about this stuff:

• Money: How much does it cost? Are there hidden fees?
• Features: Does it do what you need it to do?
• Size: Can it handle all your attendees?
• Easy to Use?: Is it simple for everyone to use?
• Does it Connect?: Can it work with your other programs?
• Help!: What kind of help do they offer if things go wrong?

Try out a few before you decide. Demos are your friend!

3. Plan it Out!

No one wants to be bored. Plan your event carefully. Here are some ideas:

• Mix it up: Keynotes, panels, workshops, Q&A. Keep it interesting.
• Breaks!: Give people time to breathe.
• Get them involved: Ask questions, do polls, make it fun.
• Time Zones: Think about where your attendees are.
• Good Stuff: Make sure the content is worth watching.

People have short attention spans online. Keep it quick and to the point!

4. Know Your Platform!

You picked a platform? Now learn it! I mean really learn it. This means:

• Setting up the space: Make it look good! Add your logo, sponsors, etc.
• Registration: Make it easy to sign up.
• Scheduling: Add speakers, presentations, everything.
• Interactive stuff: Set up chat rooms, polls, Q&A.
• Exhibitors: Help them make their virtual booths awesome.

Most platforms have training. Use it!

5. Tell Everyone!

Just because it's online doesn't mean people will show up. You gotta promote it! Use:

• Email: Tell your existing contacts.
• Social Media: Use hashtags!
• Your Website: Make a special event page.
• Ads: Pay to reach more people.
• Partners: Team up with others to spread the word.

Tell them why they should come and make it easy to sign up!

6. Keep Them Hooked!

Engagement is everything. Here's how to do it:

• Before: Send welcome emails, use a hashtag, do a pre-event webinar.
• During: Ask questions, do polls, have live Q&A.
• After: Send thank you emails, share recordings, ask for feedback.

Make them feel like they're part of something, even if it's virtual.

7. Interactive Features? Use Them!

These platforms have tons of ways to get people involved. Like:

• Live Q&A: Let them ask the speakers questions.
• Polls: See what people think.
• Chat Rooms: Let people talk to each other.
• Breakout Rooms: Smaller groups for focused chats.
• Networking Lounges: A place to just hang out and connect.
• Games!: Make it fun with points and leaderboards.

Try different things and see what people like!

8. Make it a Good Time!

Happy attendees come back. So, make it a good experience!

• Clear Instructions: Easy to find what they need.
• Tech Support: Help them if they have problems.
• Personalize it: Use their info to make it relevant.
• Get Feedback: Ask them what they thought.

Make it memorable!

9. See What Worked!

Track your results. Did it pay off? Key things to look at:

• Attendance: How many people came?
• Engagement: Did they participate?
• Leads: Did you get new potential customers?
• Customers: Did you get actual new customers?
• Brand Awareness: Did more people hear about you?

Use the data to make your next event even better.

10. Include Everyone!

Make sure everyone can attend, even people with disabilities. This means:

• Closed Captioning: For all videos.
• Screen Reader: Make sure the platform works with screen readers.
• Alt Text: Describe all images.
• Keyboard: Make sure people can use the platform with just a keyboard.

Reach more people and be inclusive!

In Conclusion... Virtual Events Rock (If You Do Them Right)

Knowing how to use a virtual event platform isn't optional anymore. It's a must. Plan carefully, pick the right platform, get people involved, and track your results. Do that, and you'll have successful events that help your business. Virtual events are here to stay. Get good at them!

Virtual events are the new normal. The ones who really learn how to do them well will succeed. So, learn your platform, try different things, and always try to make it a better experience for the attendees. It'll pay off with more engagement, more leads, and more success for your business.