How to: Host a Virtual Networking Event

What is a virtual event?

A virtual event is any meet-up that takes place online rather than in a physical location. These events can range from small Q&A sessions to large-scale conferences.

Here are some examples of the different kinds of online events you might like to host:

• How-to’s, tutorials, and classes
• Q&As, Livestreams and Interviews
• Webinar Training Courses and Workshops
• Conferences

How to: Host a Virtual Networking Event

01. Write a Plan

If you are thinking of hosting a virtual networking event, make sure you write a plan. Writing a plan and setting out your goals for the event is the best way to get started. Ask yourself:

• What type of event do you want to run and why?
• What kind of experience do you hope to deliver?
• Will the event be live, on-demand or both?
• Where do you want the content to be seen and who do you want it to be seen by?
• Will access be free?
• What is the best time and platform for the event?
• Will you require registration?
• How will you promote the event?
• Will you co-host with anyone?
• Will people have access once the event is over?
• What goals do you want to meet?
• What data do you need to collect/track?

02. Choose the Right Platform

Once you have answer these questions you will then need to make sure that you make the right decisions about hosting your event based on the answers and your audience. For example, choosing the right type of event and the right platform. Choosing the right time for your event to take place.

03. Promote the Event

Once you have fixed the date, time and sorted out your online event you will need to promote the event. Online, offline, in conversation. Share the event details by email and on social media and encourage people to sign up.

Take advantage of your speakers and your colleagues, provide them with the details they need to become event ambassadors. Always include who, what, where, and how – include a link to your registration page and any event hashtags.

04. Prepare in advance

Before kicking things off, do a rehearsal if possible. Test your Internet connection—and have your speakers do the same. Prepare backups of visuals and any presentations and if possible have someone else co-host with you to make the administration easier.

Remember that not everyone is familiar with the technology so make sure that you provide clear instructions and anticipate any issues that people may have.

05. Encourage engagement

Create opportunities for engagement and your audience will be more engaged. This is when it can be particularly useful to have a co-host or moderator to help with this. Some examples include:

• Ask people to submit questions in advance
• Ask people to submit questions or contribute through a chat tool.
• Use Polls and voting tools.
• Encourage Live tweeting.
• Shout-outs to people and encourage them to share.

06. Follow up

Finally, follow up after the event (much like you would do with any networking or in-person event). For exampler, as host you can circulate information from the event and any slides etc. Ask people to provide feedback on the speaker or ideas for upcoming events, promote your next event and reach out to follow up 1-to-1 with people.