5 Speaker Tips and Best Practices For Your Virtual Event

July 10, 2020

Laurie Powell

Laurie Powell is Vice President, Business Development of eventPower, provider of conference management tools and services, including an all-one-solution that supports virtual, hybrid and in-person events.

In the past four months, events have radically shifted from in-person gatherings to virtual events. Speakers play an integral role and can make or break the attendee experience. Understanding the importance presenters play into this dynamic, here are some tips for helping you to create a positive virtual experience for your attendees. 

1. Test, Test, Test

To ensure everything runs smoothly, schedule a rehearsal with your speakers.  Here is a short checklist of items to practice:

  • Test microphone and audio to confirm optimum sound.
  • Test lighting (i.e., not sitting with back to a window).
  • Test Internet connection (i.e., consider sitting close to your router).
  • Test Zoom, YouTube or video webinar platform settings.
  • Confirm presentation area is quiet and will remain that way for duration of the presentation.
  • Test their presentation timing. Ensure they have plenty of time remaining to answer Q&A.

2. Moderator + Co-Host = Success

Having a moderator and co-host adds structure to your session. Your moderator and co-host can handle technical problems, housekeeping notes, keep the session flowing and take over in case either person experiences a poor Internet connection. Having both a moderator and co-host are essential to the success of your virtual event, allowing your speakers to focus on presenting.

3. Shorten Session Lengths

Many speakers may think presenting during live events is the same as presenting virtually, but speaking virtually comes with new territory. It is essential to keep your audience engaged. Attendees are more likely to show up for a session that is shorter. Consider condensing the session times you would typically host for your in-person event by 15 or 30 minutes. For example, a 60-minute breakout session should be no more than 45 minutes when delivered online.  

4. Use Platform Engagement Tools

Set yourself apart by incorporating engagement tools during your virtual event. Here are a few engagement tools to consider: 

  • Polls
  • Contests
  • Videos
  • Chat 
  • Drawing tools
  • Q&As
  • Gamification
  • Social media hashtags

5. Don’t Forget About Fun

Providing a fun atmosphere can help you create a lasting impression. Simply relax, smile and laugh. Encourage your attendees to have fun with you.  

Remember to be creative; use event-themed virtual backgrounds that allow you to display an image as your background. This can help you maintain the theme of your event and reduce distractions. For example, if your event was being hosted in Nashville, you could use an image of the Grand Ole Opry.

You may also consider asking participants to share a fun icebreaker to start your session, which can encourage more communication and engagement from the beginning.

 

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.