The virtual event landscape has exploded in recent years. While the
convenience and global reach they offer are undeniable, standing out in a
crowded digital space can be a challenge. To capture attention and drive
engagement, event marketers need to get creative. Here, we explore some
innovative event marketing strategies that will make
your virtual event a resounding success:
Pre-Event Buzz:
- Interactive
Content and Gamification: Go beyond static event descriptions.
Create interactive quizzes, polls, or contests related to your event
theme. This not only educates potential attendees but also collects
valuable data for further personalization.
- Social
Media Takeovers: Partner
with relevant influencers or industry leaders for a social media takeover.
This allows you to tap into their audience and build anticipation for your
event.
- AR/VR
Experiences: Consider
incorporating Augmented Reality (AR) or Virtual Reality (VR) experiences
into your pre-event marketing. Offer a sneak peek of your virtual event
space or a gamified experience to pique attendee interest.
Compelling Content is King:
- Micro-content
Marketing: Create
bite-sized content pieces like short videos, infographics, or blog posts
highlighting key speakers, sessions, or event benefits. Share them
consistently across your social media channels and email marketing
campaigns.
- Live
Q&A Sessions: Host a pre-event live Q&A session
with your speakers on social media or a dedicated platform. This allows
potential attendees to interact directly with the experts, fostering a
sense of community and exclusivity.
- Partner
with Martech
Publications: Reach out to tech publications or
websites specializing in marketing technology ("martech").
Partner with them for sponsored content or advertorials promoting your
virtual event. This taps into a highly relevant audience and positions
your event as a thought leader in the virtual space.
Engagement During the Event:
- Interactive
Sessions and Workshops: Move beyond static presentations.
Encourage audience participation through live polls, quizzes, or breakout
room discussions. Integrate interactive tools offered by your virtual
event platform.
- Gamification
with Rewards: Implement
gamification elements throughout the event. Award points for
participation, session attendance, or social media sharing. Offer
exclusive content or discounts as rewards, keeping attendees motivated and
engaged.
- Social
Wall and Live Engagement: Create a dedicated social wall where
attendees can share their experiences, ask questions, and network with
each other. Encourage live engagement through polls, Q&A sessions, and
real-time social media interaction.
Post-Event Follow-up:
- On-demand
Content Sharing: Don't
let the value end after the live event. Make recordings of sessions,
presentations, and Q&A discussions available on-demand for registered
attendees. This extends the life of your event and provides additional
value.
- Event
Recap and Key Takeaways: Publish a post-event blog or social
media post summarizing key takeaways and insights shared during the event.
This keeps the conversation going and encourages attendees to share their
learnings with their networks.
By implementing these innovative event marketing strategies, you can ensure your virtual event cuts through the noise and delivers an engaging and unforgettable experience for your audience. Remember, the key lies in creating a buzz beforehand, providing valuable content during, and fostering a sense of community throughout the virtual event journey
