Everything You Need to Know about Virtual Event Types: Learn which Event Type to Choose for Your Next Event

A virtual event can simply be defined as a gathering that takes place online. Similar to in-person events, virtual events aim to bring like-minded people together for a variety of reasons including networking, relationship building, training, learning, and so much more. Virtual events can take many forms including webinars, live streaming events, online trade shows, and virtual conferences.

The beauty of virtual events is that they can be accessed by anyone anywhere in the world, as long as they have a stable internet connection. To mimic in-person interactions and ensure connectivity, virtual events often leverage tools that help create a more interactive experience such as video conferencing, chat rooms, live polls, and more.

What is a virtual event type?

A virtual event type refers to the category or classification of the virtual event based on its format, purpose, and objectives. Examples of virtual event types include webinars, virtual conferences, virtual trade shows, virtual networking events, virtual product launches, job fairs, and so on. Virtual event types are often chosen based on the end goal or objective and the virtual event type will also determine the virtual event format.

What is the difference between a virtual event type and a virtual event format?

While the terms “virtual event type” and “virtual event format” can occasionally be used interchangeably, they can also have a distinct meaning. It’s important to note that the virtual event type will often determine the virtual event format which also impacts the platform that is used to host the event, the type of content that is shared during the event, and the engagement tactics that are used throughout the event.

Generally speaking, the virtual event type refers to the broad category of virtual events that share similar characteristics and objectives while a virtual event format refers to the specific structure and design of a virtual event within a particular type. For example, a virtual conference may have multiple sessions with different presenters and networking opportunities, and a webinar may have a single presenter delivering a lecture-style presentation.

What are the different event types of virtual events?

There are many different types of virtual events. The one you choose will largely depend on your goals, objectives and audience. Here are some of the most common types of virtual events:

1. Webinars

A webinar is an online presentation or workshops that focus on a select topic. These virtual events are often broadcasted to a select group and can be hosted by a singular individual or an organization. The main value of hosting a webinar is having the opportunity to educate your intended audience on a select topic while helping you communicate in real-time from anywhere in the world.

2. Virtual conferences

A virtual conference or webinar is a meeting that takes place in a virtual environment for any number of reasons. Similar to in-person conferences, virtual conferences often gather keynote speakers or a select group of professionals to learn from one another, collaborate, brainstorm, or network.

3. Virtual meetups

A virtual meetup is an informal online gathering that takes place among like-minded individuals that share common goals or interests. For example, an online meetup may take place among startup founders that are eager to learn from one another or exchange ideas, or even among movie buffs that want to connect with other film lovers to discuss storylines.

4. Live streaming events

Live streaming events are events that take place in real-time that are broadcasted by the host and streamed over the internet by guests. Live streaming events may be used for anything from a product launch to a sports game, or a webinar. Live streaming events are also excellent resources to use if you want to extend your reach or get in front of consumers that aren’t able to attend an in-person event.

5. Virtual job fairs

Virtual job fairs are events that are used by employers to connect with potential employees. Similar to in-person job fairs, these events are used to promote openings and get to know candidates. Virtual job fairs are especially important in a virtual environment where organizations may be hiring for remote opportunities as opposed in in-person roles.

6. Virtual team building events

Hosting a virtual team building event is an excellent way to build comradery among remote teams. Virtual team building events are often used among remote organizations to promote teamwork and collaboration via the use of games or challenges that require teamwork and strategic thinking.

7. Virtual workshops

Virtual workshops are events that take place online with the end goal of teaching attendees a new skill. This can be anything from a workshop on improving communication in the workplace to a workshop on how to prioritize mental health while working remotely. These are learning opportunities that are often led by an industry expert or skilled professional.

8. Online trade shows

Online trade shows are virtual exhibitions that allow companies to showcase their products and services to potential customers in hopes of garnering additional exposure or making a sale. Often featuring virtual booths and networking opportunities, online trade shows provide organizations with an excellent opportunity to market their products and form genuine connections.

9. Virtual product launches

Often used with the intent of garnering a global audience, virtual product launches are events that empower organizations to showcase a new product, feature, or update to an online audience. These events are used by hosts to build hype around a product and consumers to learn more about a product.

What to consider when choosing a virtual event type

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a virtual event type to ensure your event meets your objectives and engages your audience. The following are considerations that must be taken into consideration when choosing your virtual event type:

1. Budget

Different virtual event types have different associated costs meaning it’s important to hammer out your budget and take this number into consideration when choosing your event type. For example, hosting a virtual trade show may require more resources to manage than hosting a webinar meaning it may be more costly. In addition, hosting a professional speaker may be more costly than bringing together industry experts to host a round table. These are all factors that must be considered.

2. Technology

It’s important to consider the technology requirements of your event and choose your event type based on the technology and software you have access to. For example, webinars may only require video conferencing software whereas virtual trade shows may require more resources to set up and manage.

3. Functionality

It's important to consider how you want to engage attendees and how they will interact with your event type. Some virtual event types may offer more opportunities for attendees to engage with one another whereas others may not.

4. Target audience

It’s important to consider your target audience when choosing your event type. This means putting yourself in their shoes and identifying their preferences in order to create the best possible experience. For example, an older demographic may enjoy a less interactive experience like a conference or webinar whereas a younger more tech savvy demographic may prefer a virtual networking event that is backed by engagement features.

5. Event objectives

In order to determine which event type to move forward with, you must determine your event objectives. It’s important to note that different virtual event types are suited for different objectives. Is your objective to educate, inform, network, or sell? Answering this question will help you choose the appropriate event type.

Host your next virtual event with Remo, the premier choice for virtual events

Remo is an immersive virtual event and meeting platform that empowers event hosts or facilitators to recreate natural interactions in any type of gatherings, from global networking events to virtual meetings between colleagues. Where other telecommunication tools make it possible for you to host virtual networking events, Remo empowers you to take your event to new heights by creating customized virtual environments and unlocking access to intuitive one-of-a-kind tools. For the first time ever, you can create a captivating virtual environment specifically for your virtual event and keep your audience engaged with exclusive features. Simply create your own custom environment or have an expert do it for you.

Interested in optimizing your next virtual event? Get started with your FREE TRIAL today or click here to learn more about how Remo can help create and sustain more impactful networking relationships.