With the climate of the events industry, we thought it would be a great idea to share some virtual networking events ideas. We have been producing many virtual events, and hybrid events alike, over the last 18.
From our experience producing these events, we can tell you with confidence: “You need creative virtual networking events ideas and you need them now.”
With the oversaturated virtual events world you need to find a way to make your event stand out from the others. We hope that this blog post helps to get the juices flowing.
If you need help making your ideas for virtual events a reality, we are always here to talk shop with you!
Your experience – your experience – their experience
1. DIY Kits or At-Home Activities
Let’s face it, ice breakers can be awkward and there’s only so much mindless banter you can exchange before people grow weary and attendees drop out. In order to add an element of fun and interactivity, and more importantly, a common connection for guests to jumpstart conversation, you should consider providing attendees with a do it yourself activity to participate in, such as a tiny campfire, virtual cocktail classes, or an online trivia game.
Whichever path you choose to go down, just make sure that attendees are able to sign up to participate and receive the necessary components well in advance! For real though, when it comes to virtual networking events ideas, no one misses a chance for a mini s’mores break.
our experience – your experience – their experience
2. Invest in an Event Guide/Mobile App
Whereas event guides and apps have previously provided GPS directions to different conference centers or specified the location of breakout rooms (in addition to program schedules and speaker lists), they are increasingly being leveraged more and more for their ability to digitally connect attendees.
Invest in an Event Guide or Mobile App that has an in-depth bio and contact section and community message board where attendees can start threads with other participants and message each other directly. Networking is a lot like planting the first seed, it takes some effort to dig up the dirt, but once the conversation germinates you just need to nurture it with time and attention.
our experience – your experience – their experience
3. Plan Themed Breakout Rooms
Any web conferencing solution worth its salt will offer some form of breakout rooms for guests to join in between sessions. Help smooth this transition by providing themes for guests to kick off the conversations with—whether it’s creative digital backgrounds, fun face filters, or even a thematic element.
Themed virtual breakout sessions can help provide connection points for attendees and inject some fun into your events. It is also a great way to feature a particular sponsor or product at your event.
our experience – your experience – their experience
4. Professional Matchmaking Service
Tech Crunch, the online startup periodical for all things technical, saved 2 months of planning by providing an event match making service. These services will gather information on your attendees and partner them into groups of people with similar professional goals or complementary experiences.
In addition to eliminating the stress on your end, they also allow hosts to collect valuable data related to guest metrics including event attendance, guest satisfaction, and the ever important feedback regarding what elements participants would like to see in the next event. As far as virtual networking events ideas, this one makes it a breeze!
our experience – your experience – their experience
5. Create a Networking Template
Attendees spend a lot of time and money to participate in these virtual events, and it’s likely that they have their own set of personal goals they are looking to complete. Rather than trying to tease out hidden clues as to how you can connect, make your guests fill out a networking template beforehand that is accessible to everyone.
This helps eliminate a lot of the initial searching time and can give you a solid foundation with which to connect. Virtual networking events ideas are great but they can be difficult to get off the ground for some participants without a structure like this in place.
Why AV Design Agreements Are Important For Everyone
Protecting Both Parties
In the rare instances where disagreements arise, AV Design Agreements stand as unbiased arbitrators.
- Scope Creep: If a client requests additional features not included in the original agreement, the design agreement can be referred to to clarify the scope.
- Payment Disputes: When there's a disagreement over payment for certain services, the detailed financial breakdown in the agreement offers clarity.
- Timeline Conflicts: In the event of delays, the agreement clearly states the consequences of penalties or allowances.
Regarding AV projects, it's essential to have a comprehensive design agreement in place to ensure everything runs smoothly. The agreement should cover the following aspects:
- Detailed Scope of Work: This should clearly outline all the tasks, milestones, and deliverables involved in the project.
- Financial Breakdown: It's essential to have a transparent list of all the costs involved, including equipment, labor, licensing, and any other fees associated with the project.
- Timeline with Milestones: It is vital to have a project calendar that clearly outlines all the essential delivery dates.
- Equipment Specifications: A comprehensive list of all the hardware and software involved should be included, along with the model numbers and manufacturers.
- Conflict Resolution Mechanism: A dispute resolution process, such as mediation or arbitration, should be specified in the agreement.