21 Apr VIRTUAL MEETINGS AND EVENTS KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DESIGNING BETTER GET-TOGETHERS
With the rise of virtual meetings and events, as keynote speakers are well aware, it can be challenging to keep attendees engaged and entertained. However, with some creativity and innovation, these corporate get-togethers can be made just as fun and exciting as in-person gatherings. Here are some fun and innovative ideas for designing better online conferences and tete-a-tetes.
To begin with, we often recommend that you incorporate interactive elements. One of the benefits of virtual meetings is that they can offer unique and interactive experiences that are not possible in-person. For example, online scavenger hunts or escape rooms can provide a fun and challenging team-building activity. Virtual reality (VR) technology can also provide a unique and immersive experience, such as virtual tours of museums or interactive simulations. What’s more, games such as trivia or charades can also provide a fun and engaging way to break the ice and keep attendees engaged.
If you can, you’ll also want to find fun and inventive ways to incorporate food and drink. These factors can add a fun and social element to your gathering. One idea here, for instance, is to send attendees a package of snacks or drinks before the meeting, so everyone can enjoy the same treats together. Or you could have attendees be encouraged to make their own cocktails or mocktails and share recipes with each other. This can create a fun and relaxed atmosphere and help attendees feel more connected.
We also advise finding ways to bring music and entertainment into your programs. They can add a fun and festive element to virtual meetings and events. For example, an online-connected DJ can play music during breaks or a comedian can provide a fun and lighthearted interlude. Online talent shows or open mic nights can also provide a unique and engaging way for attendees to showcase their skills and talents.
Then, you’ll also want to get social media elements involved. Because if you think about it, they can be a powerful tool for engaging attendees and creating a sense of community. For example, attendees can be encouraged to share photos or videos of themselves participating in the event on social media platforms such as Instagram or Twitter. A hashtag can be created for the event, which can help participants connect with each other and share their experiences. In addition, live polling or Q&A sessions can be conducted through social media platforms, which can provide an interactive and engaging experience for attendees.
Think about how wellness activities might work as part of your program as well. With the rise of remote work and virtual meetings, it’s important to prioritize wellness and self-care. Online events can leverage wellness activities such as guided meditation or yoga sessions, which can help attendees relax and de-stress. In addition, virtual fitness challenges or step competitions can provide a fun and healthy way for attendees to stay active and motivated.