We must concede, virtual networking, summits, conferences, basically all types of formats are here to stay. In 2020 many businesses begrudgingly took to the virtual airwaves. At first it wasn’t pretty, with all the muted microphones, poor camera angles, bad lighting, and dropped internet connections all while trying to adjust a business model to work in the virtual landscape. Many hoped and thought it would be a temporary strategy, but we soon learned that would not be the case and things got better as users became more familiar with the technical aspects of virtual platforms.
However, let us discuss the real value of going virtual. Many businesses had already embraced the online format and those that had to make the adjustment soon discovered that adding a virtual component to their strategies was going to be a good thing. Instead of it becoming a temporary fix it is now a permanent, mainstream strategy.
So how are you going to maximize the value and get the most out of the virtual events you attend? The virtual concept and environments are so different from in person events. It has more distractions and less interaction they say. Or is it? We say it depends on the delivery model and the actions of the attendees whether there are distractions and interaction. It is a two-way street to get the most out of an event.
The Models
Meetings and Gatherings – most of us are aware of the ‘zoom’ model where all the participants are gathered and displayed on a single screen to meet. It has become the leader in virtual gatherings from small family get togethers to formal business meeting. It was originally built to accommodate meetings and has upgraded many features such as breakout rooms and webinars, to stay competitive in the business sector.
Summits and Conferences – This format has been around for years, but its popularity, technological advancements, and available resources exponentially exploded over the last year. Summit software is specifically designed to emulate an in-person event, including event branding, registration, live or recorded panels or workshops, exhibitors, and sponsor capabilities. Generally, each component is featured in its own dedicated area (page) unlike the ‘zoom’ format. One of its big advantages, especially if pre-recorded or recorded for replays, is the ability to see all the sessions. Remember going to live events and meticulously going through the program book to select which sessions you would attend? I can remember on numerous occasions hoping those sessions I opted out of would not have content that was too valuable. A choice we had to make.
Here at Systems Summits we believe there are 3 key strategies you need to do to get the most out of any event.
- Before: Research if the event is a good fit, put it on your calendar, review the presentations
- During: Unplug from ALL distractions, take notes, and ask questions.
- After: Take advantage of the resources – Follow up – Follow up – Follow up!
To get a full explanation of these three areas here’s a free workshop. Hot Topic Episode 13: How to Benefit From Attending Virtual Events. Click the REPLAY button.
Attend Systems Summits – October 27-28, to take advantage of sessions that explore how to be a leader with your human side, time management, and using technology to impact effectiveness.
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