With optimism for face-to-face events returning, digital still holds its own!
Events are just one of many aspects of business that have had to adapt in the last year to suit the current climate. Face to face interactions and travel have both had to be reassessed as the ongoing situation with the pandemic changes.
The question on everyone’s lips: Does this mean that events should be forgotten for now?
Absolutely not!
In a world where everyone is more isolated than usual, interactions between people are more important than ever. Relationships have to be built and maintained to continue to grow your business. Events can still help you do this.
Virtual Events: are they the same as in person events? Of course not. But they still hold their own value:
- Getting in front of a wide audience in a short period of time.
- Easily maintaining global relationships from the comfort of your own home / office / coffee shop / wherever you want to take part!
- Easily make new, meaningful connections within relevant groups and breakouts.
- Stay up to date with how your peers around the world are dealing with pressing issues, and keep informed on legislative and regulatory updates in their jurisdictions.
Digital or speed networking sessions are another evolution of events in the digital age. As with Virtual Events, these give you the opportunity to get in front of many valuable contacts from around the world in a short period of time. You can promote your business, building awareness and seeking out new opportunities.
As with any event, in person or digital, you only get out what you put in. Here are a couple of our top tips to making the most of your participation:
- Research which sessions you would like to attend. Most events should come with a schedule outlining the itinerary for the event. Pick sessions that compliment your business, and where you are hoping to grow.
- PREPARE. You wouldn’t go to the supermarket without your shopping list, would you? (We’ve all done this and know how much time it wastes!). The same principle applies to your event. Have a list of questions you are hoping to have answered from a session – some of these might be answered in the content, others can be asked at the Q & A sections. This gives you value from your time, and also encourages educational discussions between other participants.
- Don’t waffle! We all know there is nothing worse than being in an open discussion and one person starts a monologue for 10+ minutes on an unrelated topic… Think about exactly what you want to say before you begin and keep it concise. Making your points in a clear and structured manner will instantly endear you to the rest of the group!
All of the above is by no means suggesting that in person events are no longer necessary. Nothing can replace the connection formed sharing your interests and experiences in person or sharing a drink in the bar after the event! They will always be the most valuable tool to grow your network, and consequently your business.
We can’t wait to see you all and share that drink together soon!