It’s 2022 and hybrid events have become more popular than ever. Hybrid events are similar to events with a digital audience, but there are some differences:

• Hybrid events happen both virtually and physically
• Hybrid events allow you to take to physical and digital audiences at the same time
• Your hybrid event will happen at a physical location which will also be streamed online

Hybrid events are a good option now that the vaccine has been rolled out. You will be able to expand your audience reach by offering the event both in person and online. The best of both worlds for your physical and digital audiences. But some people worry that audience engagement is reduced with hybrid events. This might be true if you don’t make an effort to engage your audiences. But don't worry, we’re here and we have 5 tips to maximize your audience engagement for your next hybrid event. Our 5 Tips to engage your physical and digital audiences:

1. An Engaging Virtual Events Platform

Your physical audience will be used to engaging with in-person events. But your digital audience might be attending their first hybrid event. You need to encourage your virtual audience to take part in the event to maximize engagement. They cannot do this if your virtual event platform is not engaging. Not all virtual event platforms offer the same features, so pick one that will help your audience to communicate. Some key features for engagement include:

• Polling
• Gamification
• Virtual lobbies
• Virtual tables
• Q&A features

Make sure to show your digital audience how to use all of these features in advance of the event.

2. Interesting Speakers

The speakers you have will set the tone of the event. Make sure you pick speakers who will engage your audience by asking them questions. Pick someone inspiring who will give your digital and physical audience something worth talking about. You can even use your guest speaker as a marketing point to get people excited for the event. Promote the speaker on your social media to create a sense of anticipation. It’s also a good idea to share background information about your speakers so your audience will have some talking points for the event.

3. Make use of Customizable Floor Plans

A customizable floor plan will change the way your virtual event looks on screen. They can take your digital audience to a whole new location. When we use virtual events platforms, we all miss the experience of leaving the house. The customizable floor plans will make your audience feel like they are somewhere new. Your digital audience will feel like they are in a new place and that will make them more open to talking. As well as that, the new floor plan will be another point for your audience to discuss.

4. Have interesting Content

How can your digital audience engage in the event if the continent is boring? Of course they can’t! Ao gather your team together and start brainstorming. Make sure you provide plenty of content to keep your guests engaged in the event. Encourage your sponsors to run extra activities along with your own talks. For example, live demos, virtual sweepstakes, and breakout rooms.

5. Give technical support to your audience

If your digital audience has technical issues they will be cut off from your hybrid event. Not all virtual event platforms work in the same way. Some guests might not be familiar with your platform and could be confused when they try to engage. Make sure to provide full-time event support. Take a look at the support offered by your virtual events platform as that can help your team too!

The next step

Now that you know our top tips for engaging your digital audience, you’re ready! Start planning your next hybrid event. Remo is a virtual events platform with a lot of engaging features that will help you run your event. We have customizable floor plans, polling and virtual tables which will keep your audience engaged in your event.

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