We are now entering into an era where hybrid events are the new normal. While it’s exciting to be returning to some of our old ways of life, the virtual world solidified its ubiquity in our lives during the pandemic. Hybrid events come with their own, unique set of challenges because it’s almost like having to plan 2 events at once; you have your virtual audience and now you have your live audience. Utilizing MeetApp and a few of the other tricks listed below will help guide you into hosting a smooth-running and exciting hybrid event!
Experiment with format
It’s important to ensure that all of your attendees are operating on the same agenda and MeetApp’s agenda feature can help keep attendees on the same page whether they’re tuning in virtually or present in the flesh. Push notifications can also aid in reminding your attendees of presentations so that no one feels left out, no matter where they are located.
Curate a networking medium
Create a space where all of your attendees can interact. MeetApp’s built-in social media feature can help facilitate conversation and excitement among your attendees. As the host, you can post pictures and comments on the main feed to get the buzz going. Your attendees can comment, share, and react to your posts. Additionally, attendees can message one another privately in order to network and none of this is contingent on location.
Partner with AV Professionals
In order for your virtual attendees to have the same experience as your live attendees, it’s a good idea to bring in some AV professionals so that there are no technological hiccups. AV professionals can create a more immersive experience for your virtual attendees by playing with differing camera angles and filming the highest quality livestreams–attendees even have the ability to watch a pre-recorded stream at their leisure with MeetApp’s playback abilities. MeetApp’s services include an option to work with AV professionals as part of your product package if this is something you’re interested in!
Leverage multiple media platforms
With MeetApp, you can integrate so many other media platforms if you so choose. You can link YouTube, Vimeo, Zoom, and social media to your app. When working with a hybrid audience, it is to your benefit to bring in as many virtual components as you can. In-person or not, it’s no lie that most people are addicted to their smartphones so use this as a way to bring your attendees together!
Synthesize the two experiences
At the end of the day, all of your planning should have 1 goal: to synthesize the 2 experiences so that all attendees feel included and engaged. During presentations, you can monitor Q&A sessions out of your app to generate engagement from all audience members. You can also facilitate polls and word clouds through the app–your activity options are endless with MeetApp.
Hopefully, these tips and tricks help you go into your hybrid event feeling inspired, organized, and less stressed. The good news is that MeetApp can do all the heavy-lifting while you funnel your energy into more creative and fun tasks to put on the best hybrid event!