When we talk about virtual events, it means something different to every client. For some, it’s a simple webinar; for others, it’s a fully immersive online conference. But at the core, virtual events are about bringing people together in a digital space, whether that’s for training, networking, or simply sharing knowledge.

Before we talk about the different kind of virtual event, let’s break down the three main options that can be applied to each of them:

1. Live or Synchronous Events

These are real-time events, where everything happens live as it’s being viewed. Think of them as a digital version of an in-person conference, where attendees join and interact in real-time.

2. Hybrid Events

Hybrid events blend the best of both worlds: real-time interaction combined with virtual access. Some attendees are present in person, while others join virtually from various locations, whether they’re in different offices or even different countries.

3. Asynchronous or Recorded Events

These events aren’t happening in real-time. Instead, they’re pre-recorded. These events can be presented as live or they can be made available on-demand.

Types of Virtual Events

Now that we’ve covered the basic event formats, let’s dive into some of the most popular types of virtual events:

Virtual Training:

          What happens when you need to train a regional, national, or even global workforce as scale? You provide virtual trainings to ensure all participants receive the same training for efficiency and consistency. These interactive sessions or workshops allow participants to engage, learn, and develop new skills virtually. If done synchronously, they often feature breakout rooms, polling, and Q&A. These can also be presented asynchronously and include knowledge checks and quizzes.

Webinars:

           Webinars got their name from seminar on the web. These online seminars typically feature multiple speakers or panels. They are typically followed by a Q&A session. Webinars can be both synchronous or asynchronous and are a great marketing tool to share knowledge and connect with audiences on a specific topic.

Virtual Conferences:

           If you have attended an in-person conference, you can imagine what that might look like online! Virtual Conferences include multiple sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities. Have this experience online makes it easier for a national or global audience to attend! These also can be less expensive to produce as a conference organizer.

Virtual Trade Shows/Expos:

           Virtual Trade Shows allow companies to showcase their products and services in an online setting. Once again, allowing you to easily reach a larger geographical audience than you would with an in-person trade show. These events typically have interactive booths, product demos, and networking opportunities.

Virtual Networking:

          These events are all about making connections! Virtual networking sessions use breakout rooms and structured activities to help participants meet and engage with others in their industry or field. Because they are virtual, you aren’t limited to the people who can make it in the room.

Live Streams:

           Live streams are live events that are broadcast real-time to wide audiences. Unlike webinars, these typically don’t feature as much interactivity. They are great for keynote addresses, performances, product launches or announcements. They are the most similar to broadcast television.

Virtual Advisory Boards (Ad Boards):

           Ad Boards are typically invite-only sessions where key stakeholders or experts come together to have a discussion. This can be to brainstorm, to share feedback or key learnings, or to have discussion on very specific topics. These virtual events can bring together very busy people to one place without them having to physically get to a place. This allows experts to dial in from their office between patients or stakeholders to log in while traveling for work!

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What kind of virtual event will you have next?

Virtual events offer a flexible and dynamic way to connect with audiences, whether it’s live, hybrid, or pre-recorded. The only limits are your creativity (and the platforms limitations)! They key is starting with the objectives of your event in mind! Whether you're planning a training session, conference, or a networking event, virtual platforms have revolutionized the way we engage online.

Are you ready to explore how virtual events can work for your business? Let’s connect!

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