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10 Types of Virtual Events to Host in 2022

Virtual-Event

10 Types of Virtual Events to Host in 2022

Title

All hands

Interactive virtual events are essential for businesses in today's climate. In this blog post, we will explore 10 different types of virtual events that businesses can host in 2022 and provide tips to ensure you get the most from virtual events.

Why virtual events are essential for businesses

In today's business climate, connecting with customers, partners, and employees efficiently, safely, and flexibly is more important than ever. Remote working is now the norm for many businesses, and virtual events offer a great solution for businesses wanting to stay connected and build relationships without the need for travel.

Some key benefits of virtual events:

  • They are cost-effective and allow businesses to reach a global audience.
  • They are convenient and let businesses host events anytime, anywhere in the world.
  • They are flexible and can be customized to fit the needs of any business.
  • They are safe and allow businesses to avoid the risks associated with in-person events.

10 types of virtual events for businesses

There are many different types of online events that businesses can host. The virtual event format you choose should be based on your business goals and the needs of your audience. Here are 10 different types of virtual events to consider:

1. All-hands meetings

An all-hands meeting is a gathering of all the employees of a company, typically to communicate important information or updates.

They are usually led by senior leadership, providing an opportunity for everyone to stay on the same page and be aware of what's happening in the company.

All-hands meetings can be used to communicate changes in strategy, new initiatives, or major projects. They can also be used to boost morale and keep everyone feeling connected to the company's overall mission. In short, all-hands meetings are an important way for companies to keep everyone aligned and informed. If you haven’t heard of a virtual office yet, now may be a good time. Virtual offices are great for all-hands meetings and can have your employees in one space throughout the day for more interaction and spontaneous discussions. 

Why hold all-hands meetings virtually?

All-hands meetings can be logistically challenging, particularly when employees work remotely or in different places. Virtual all-hands meetings have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a way to overcome logistical challenges while reaping the benefits of coming together as a team.

Perhaps most importantly, virtual all-hands meetings allow everyone to participate, regardless of location. This can be particularly valuable for team members who travel often or are based in different time zones. Additionally, virtual all-hands meetings tend to be more cost-effective, as there's no need to hire large venues or pay employee expenses. 

Webinar

2. "Townhall” events

These events are similar to all-hands meetings but are open to the public and allow businesses to connect with their customers and partners. Town hall events can be used to share updates, solicit feedback, or answer questions. Employees are also welcome to town hall events, offering them a rare opportunity to hear directly from senior leaders and ask questions about the company's plans and priorities.

Town hall events help to build a sense of community and camaraderie among employees and the wider community. They can be an important part of a company's communication strategy, helping to ensure that key stakeholders are informed about the company's direction and performance.

Why hold town hall events virtually?

Like all-hands meetings, town hall events can be logistically challenging — particularly when businesses try to reach a global audience. Virtual town hall events offer a way to overcome these challenges while engaging with employees and the wider community.

3. Webinars

Webinars are online seminars that businesses can use to educate their employees or customers. They offer a convenient way to deliver content and allow for interactive questions and discussions.

Webinars also offer businesses a way to build relationships with their employees or customers by providing valuable information and engaging in meaningful dialogue. They can be recorded and used as marketing or training materials, making webinars a versatile tool for communication and education.

Why hold webinars virtually?

Webinars are a great way to reach a large audience without the hassle and expense of travel. In-person alternatives, such as seminars, are typically much smaller and more intimate, reaching only those geographically close to your business. By holding webinars virtually, you can reach people from all over the world without incurring the cost of airfare, hotels, and other travel expenses. 

Webinars can also be recorded and shared online, so your audience can access the information even if they can't make it to the live event. They offer a great way to build buzz and generate interest in your products or services, with engaging experiences leaving your customers wanting more.

Virtual-Job-Fair

4. Networking

Networking events allow businesses to connect with each other and build relationships. These events can take many forms, but they typically involve some type of networking activity, such as speed networking or attending a networking reception. Business networking events usually have a specific focus, such as connecting businesses in the same industry or region. Attendees typically include business owners, executives, and other professionals. Networking events can be an effective way to build new business relationships and expand your professional network.

Why hold networking events virtually?

While networking events used to be exclusively in-person affairs, more and more businesses are beginning to hold them virtually. There are several advantages to holding a virtual networking event. For example:

  • It's easier to reach a larger audience. 
  • It's more cost-effective than an in-person event. 
  • It's more convenient for everyone involved.

5. Hiring and job fairs

Hiring fairs and job fairs provide businesses with an opportunity to meet a large number of potential employees in a short period of time, learning about their skills and qualifications. They also allow businesses to assess the fit of potential employees with their company culture. Hiring and job fairs can be a great way for businesses to find the right employees for their needs.

Why hold hiring and job fairs virtually?

Like networking, hiring and job fairs have traditionally been in-person events. But they are increasingly being held virtually. There are a few reasons for this trend — for many of the same reasons already mentioned. First, it is easier to reach a wider audience when the event is held online. Second, virtual events are less expensive to produce than in-person events. And finally, virtual hiring and job fairs are more convenient for employers and job seekers. Employers can save time and money by not traveling to the event, and job seekers can attend from the comfort of their homes. It makes sense to hold hiring and job fairs virtually in an increasingly digital world.

Business Conference

6. Product launches

Product launches are a crucial part of any business's marketing efforts. They provide a platform to showcase your latest products and innovations to the public and generate buzz and excitement around the release. These events also allow businesses to collect customer feedback and make adjustments before the product hits the market.

Why hold product launches virtually?

The advent of technology means more businesses are opting to hold virtual product launches. There are several advantages to holding a virtual product launch, including increased reach, lowered costs, and greater flexibility.

A virtual product launch can be attended by anyone with an internet connection, meaning you can reach a wide audience. They are typically less expensive to produce than in-person events. Virtual launches also offer greater control over the format and content of the event, making it easier to tailor the launch to your specific goals. Given the many advantages, it's no surprise that more and more businesses are choosing to go virtual for their product launches.

7. Conferences and summits

Conferences and summits are large gatherings of business professionals for the purpose of networking, sharing ideas and knowledge, and discussing industry trends. These events usually last for several days and attract people from all over the world. Many conferences and summits also offer educational opportunities, such as keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops. Attendees often have the chance to network with other professionals in their field, which can lead to new business opportunities. Conferences and summits can be an invaluable resource for business professionals who are looking to stay up to date on industry trends and developments.

Why hold conferences and summits virtually?

Virtual conferences and summits offer busy professionals a more convenient and affordable option. By attending a virtual event, you can avoid the hassle of travel while still being able to connect with other attendees from around the world. Additionally, most virtual events offer recordings of the sessions, so you can watch them at your convenience. Whether you're looking to save money or time, virtual conferences and summits are a great option.

Livestream

8. Online trade shows and expos

Trade shows and expos are events where businesses can showcase their products and services to potential customers. These events can be a great way for businesses to build brand awareness, generate leads, and make sales. They also provide an opportunity to network with other businesses in the industry. Trade shows and expos attendees typically include buyers, retailers, distributors, and media representatives. As such, these events can be highly beneficial for businesses that are looking to expand their reach and grow their sales.

Why hold trade shows and expos virtually?

In-person trade shows and expos can be expensive and time-consuming to hold or attend. One alternative is to hold trade shows and expos online. This can be a more cost-effective and convenient option for businesses, as well as for attendees. Online trade shows and expos can reach a global audience and be accessed from anywhere at any time.

9. Training

Training and development events are important in any business because they allow employees to learn new skills and improve their performance. In today's competitive business environment, it is essential for companies to invest in their employees and give them the tools they need to be successful. Training and development events help employees stay up to date on new technologies and trends and learn new methods to improve their work. These events can also help build morale and increase job satisfaction, as employees who feel that their company is investing in their development are more likely to be loyal and productive. Ultimately, training and development events benefit both employees and employers, making them an essential part of any business.

Why hold training events online?

There are several reasons why holding training and development events online can be advantageous:

  • Online events are often more convenient for employees, as they can participate from the comfort of their own homes or offices.
  • Online training events typically cost less than in-person events, making them more affordable for businesses — particularly if you are hiring an external trainer to build your team's skills.
  • Online training events can reach a larger audience than in-person events, making them more effective at reaching a wide range of employees. 

10. Interactive Livestreams

Interactive livestreams have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer businesses a unique way to engage with their customers. 

By definition, interactive livestreams are live broadcasts that allow viewers to interact with the presenter in real time. This interaction can take many forms, such as questions and comments, polls and surveys, or even direct requests for assistance. 

These virtual event formats offer businesses several benefits, including reaching a global audience in real time, building relationships with customers, and generating leads and sales. They can also help launch new products and services, provide customer support, and even train employees. With so many potential applications, it is no wonder that interactive livestreams are becoming an essential tool for businesses of all sizes.

Tips on how to host an online event

Planning and hosting a successful virtual event can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Choose the right format for your event. There are many different types of virtual event formats, including webinars, webcasts, and online conferences. Consider your event's goals and your audience's needs when choosing a format.
  2. Promote your event effectively. Use a mix of marketing channels to reach your target audience. Social media, email marketing, and online advertising can all be effective in promoting your event.
  3. Plan for technical challenges. Always have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties. Test your audio and visual setup in advance, and ensure you have a team in place to troubleshoot any problems that may arise during the event.
  4. Engage your audience. Virtual events can be more engaging than traditional events if they are well-planned and executed. Use interactive features like polls and Q&As to encourage audience participation and provide ample opportunities for networking and socializing.
  5. Follow up after the event. Stay in touch with your attendees after the event by sending follow-up emails or conducting post-event surveys. This is a great way to gauge satisfaction levels and gather feedback for future events.

FAQs about the different types of virtual events

How can I make my virtual event more interactive?

Encourage audience participation through polls, Q&A sessions, and live chat. You can also use virtual reality and augmented reality to make your event more interactive.

What are some of the most popular virtual event platforms?

Social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, online event management platforms such as Eventbrite and Cvent, virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom and GoToMeeting, and live streaming platforms such as YouTube Live and Facebook Live are some of the most popular virtual event platforms.

How much does it cost to host a virtual event, and what are some common expenses associated with them?

The cost of hosting a virtual event can vary depending on the type of event, the platform used, and the length of the event. Common expenses include the cost of the virtual event platform, marketing and promotion, and staff time.
Rad Aswani
Rad has over 7 years of experience in Marketing. Currently, she is the fun Digital Marketer at Kumospace. She leads initiatives such as influencer marketing, SEO management, and social media to name a few. Outside of work, Rad enjoys traveling, working out, and spending time with her family and friends.
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