A new normal has started to settle in with the return of in-person events. We know you’re as thrilled as we are that your events can be hosted in-person once again, but the events landscape has changed a bit as a result of the brief hiatus.
Don’t discount the impact and importance of virtual events even though they are no longer the only option. Virtual events are not a thing of the past - they’re a way to bring your event into the future.
Virtual events are no longer a necessary substitute for in-person events; instead, they’ve emerged as their own category of events with a unique set of advantages. If you already offer virtual events or are looking into starting, we’ll give you a quick update and what’s new with virtual events in 2022.
What Qualifies As A Virtual Event?
This term ‘virtual event’ is being thrown around a lot and you may be wondering what events fall into that category. Really anything that involves video streaming could be classified as a virtual event. Webinars, virtual conferences, virtual trade shows, virtual seminars, and virtual concerts are just a few examples.
Mainstreaming Virtual Events
Virtual events, or at least virtual components added to in-person events, are a recently popular option that have had a huge impact on the events industry as a whole. Their cost effectiveness and potentially global reach are two advantages that most event producers can’t overlook. It’s becoming the standard for events to diversify - offering both in-person events and virtual ones to appeal to all audiences.
The trend: Virtual and hybrid events are no longer simply substitutes for in-person events, they are in a category of their own.
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Asynchronous Options Are In
There are three common levels of involvement when it comes to virtual events: asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid. Asynchronous implies a fully remote (or virtual) event where the guest can view the content at any time and from anywhere. Synchronous implies the virtual event has a specific meeting time and that it isn’t necessarily offered outside of that set time. Lastly, a hybrid event (as you’ve likely heard) offers an in-person and virtual mix. Essentially, your guest can join in for some in-person activities and/or virtual ones as well.
In 2022, we expect to see a higher demand for asynchronous features. This is largely because it allows your audience to take advantage of your content on their own time without interrupting their schedule. Of course, more interactive events will continue to require the use of synchronous features, though that doesn’t mean there aren’t great ways to incorporate asynchronous features too.
The trend: Guests are looking for more flexibility and therefore asynchronous virtual events are rising in popularity to accommodate that need.
Hybrid Events Offer the Best of Both Worlds
Event producers across the board are investing more and more resources into hybrid events. Why? Because hybrid events have something for everyone. They’re a singular event which offers two experiences for two distinct audiences.
In 2022, the popularity of hybrid events is not slowing down at all. We expect hybrid events to be the next big thing in the events industry largely because they allow event organizers to cater to every audience.
Your guests want the flexibility of attending your event from home? Hybrid events offer them just that. Your guests prefer to interact in-person and want to attend your event live? Hybrid events can do that too. And everyone gets to attend the event based on their comfort level.
The trend: Increasing implementation of hybrid events for traditionally in-person only events.
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Connection Is Bigger Than Ever
Modern audiences expect to see all new levels of connection and authenticity moving forward. Simply because your event is virtual, doesn’t mean the human element goes away. Your guests are still looking for personalization and connection even in an online environment.
If your event category allows for it, offering breakout rooms or one-on-one interaction could go a long way in fulfilling your guest’s needs for interaction and engagement. However, more than anything, 2022 audiences are seeking more than a robotic one-sided event experience: they want to feel included.
The trend: Guests want the flexibility and ease of virtual events with all the warmth and engagement of in-person events.
Time Is Precious, Keep It Short
In our fast-paced society, attention spans are shorter than they used to be. This can be especially tricky to work around when it comes to virtual events. When guests are watching your event, it’s usually from the comfort of their own home - a home often filled with distractions.
To counteract the distractions and hyper-flexibility your guests may be experiencing, it’s important to make sure your event keeps their attention in a fun, engaging way that respects their time and schedule.
The trend: The industry is moving towards more concise events that aren’t as drawn out or time consuming.
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Don’t Forget To Live Stream
Live streaming virtual events plays to a certain level of FOMO that guests experience; similar to an in-person event, just with more flexibility. Event live streams allow you the opportunity to connect with your guests in a way that’s never before been possible.
You’ll be able to offer your audience an authentic and cost-effective option that meets them in the comfort of their own home. One of the elements that we often miss out on with virtual events is feeling a part of the event and the same energy that we can achieve in-person. Live streaming your event allows you to offer your guests a similar type of involvement while still being virtual.
The trend: In 2022, live streaming is a must. It allows guests to feel more connected to the event and feel even more involved.
What’s Next For Virtual Events?
In 2022 the virtual events category is emerging further and further into the market. It’s clear that virtual events are here to stay and digital audiences are looking to be engaged and wowed.
Worried about live streaming or hosting your next virtual event? Never fear, Passage is here with a fully integrated virtual event feature that allows you to live stream and sell tickets with ease.
