TYPES OF VIRTUAL EVENTS
Virtual events can be incorporated into your overall event program, alongside the events you organize, the events you participate in, and your internal events. It is important to note that virtual events are not meant to replace other types of events, but rather to complement and enhance your entire program. Here are the four primary categories of virtual events.
1. Virtual Conferences
Virtual conferences are structured similarly to in-person conferences, with a dynamic agenda that encompasses keynotes, sessions, breakouts, and other components. These online events offer multiple sessions and incorporate tools for community engagement. Although they may not be as efficient in terms of lead generation and networking compared to physical gatherings, virtual conferences provide attendees with the opportunity to watch keynotes in real-time, curate their own agenda from a selection of on-demand content, and engage with fellow participants.
2. Webinars
Webinars are online events that usually span from 30 to 80 minutes. The main advantage of hosting webinars is that they enable participants from all over the world to join and listen to one or more speakers presenting the content. Companies have the option to charge attendees for joining webinars through online payment services or offer them for free. Webinars commonly utilize video conferencing tools that facilitate Q&A sessions, the ability to present live or pre-recorded videos, and the option to be accessed on-demand after the event. Due to their unique educational nature, webinars have flourished with 100% virtual attendance. Additionally, webinars can also encompass both internal and external training sessions.
3. External Hybrid Events
Events organized for individuals external to your organization, such as user conferences or industry conferences, necessitate enhanced video production to ensure that virtual participants receive a comparable experience to those attending in person. These events offer an opportunity for individuals who cannot physically attend to still take part and acquire knowledge. However, it can be difficult to replicate the same level of value at external hybrid events, as in-person attendees have greater freedom to network and engage with the content compared to virtual participants.
4. Internal Hybrid Events
Sales kick-offs, company wide events, trainings, department meetings, and other gatherings are common in organizations. For companies that operate across countries or continents, internal hybrid events are utilized to disseminate information to all employees, even when they are not physically present in one location. Although it would be ideal to bring all employees to the organization’s headquarters, it is not practical due to the high cost and time-consuming scheduling. Therefore, hosting events that combine in-person and virtual components is a viable alternative. Virtual team-building activities can also be incorporated into internal hybrid events.
5. Virtual Exhibitions
Despite the possibility that some individuals may have been compelled to experiment with this novel approach to events, there are numerous remarkable advantages for all parties involved. Virtual exhibitions offer a plethora of opportunities to enhance the experience for both the audience and the marketers or event organizers. Similar to other virtual events, the ability to reach a broader audience through digital means has gained immense popularity worldwide.
6. Virtual Trade Shows
Virtual trade shows are events that allow exhibitors and attendees to interact online, without the need for physical travel or venues. They can provide more data and insights, as they can track and measure the behavior and preferences of the participants, such as the number of visits, downloads, chats, or leads. This can help exhibitors and organizers to improve their marketing and sales strategies, and tailor their offerings to the needs of the audience.
Contact us to learn more about how Thedigitalants can help you integrate virtual events in your B2B marketing strategy.
