New to hosting virtual events? It's ok - almost everyone is! Here are some tips to help you along.
First, make sure you've already taken a look at Pre-Event Host Checklist!
We find that hosts get the best turnout and experience when they do the following:
Depending on the type of event, opening with some sort of intro via broadcast is best! This works especially well with scheduled conferences, receptions, or summits, etc.
When you broadcast, it is equivalent to taking the stage and microphone in real life. While you are broadcasting, attendees will temporarily be unable to join conversations and will only be able to see and hear you. You won't be able to hear or see them and therefore, you don't have to worry about muting them because that will already be done! Make sure you know how to broadcast so check out this video if you don't already!
For events where you would expect rolling attendance such as career fairs or general networking sessions, it might be best to write a welcome blurb in the news channel. This way the attendee will receive a banner with the announcement right as they join the event.
If you ever notice there are certain individuals who have been standing in one place for a while and have not really been engaging in conversations, it could be a good idea to go up to them and see if they are doing alright. This can happen when attendees are not used to attending virtual events so they might be confused or overwhelmed and may be unsure of what to do.
Even if people are in large groups of up to 9-15 (15 is the max each huddle can handle!), the groups might be too big for everyone to be able to participate in natural conversation. Encourage attendees to socialize in smaller groups of 2-8. It not only allows for more natural networking, avoid lulls in the event, but also can help with better connectivity.