Top 13 Types of Virtual Events That Drive Engagement

Many event organizers had to learn to host virtual events during the pandemic.

Yet, this doesn’t mean that these are easy to organize. Promoting audience engagement is difficult, and it’s even more challenging when talking about an online event. So, if you want to gain an edge on your competitors, you’ll need to learn some of the best virtual event types that drive engagement.

If you combine this with your creativity, you’ll be unstoppable.

While many people struggle to host the perfect online event, others don’t even know the difference between these and traditional gatherings.

You have to consider that there are different types of virtual events. Some events may work better with certain businesses, but there’s one thing all event planners want: success.

There is no magic formula to achieve this, but you can follow certain guidelines to help you. In this guide, you’ll find the different types of virtual events and tips on how to organize them.

Virtual Event Definition

Firstly, it’s essential to answer three questions: “What,” “why,” and “how”.

What is a virtual event? Unlike in-person events, virtual events are always online. Through the web, participants get together and discuss, interact, or collaborate.

Why hold a virtual event? The main reason why someone would set up a virtual event platform is simplicity. This is a straightforward and cost-effective solution. Since you don’t have to rent a venue or hire staff, you’ll have fewer overhead costs.

How do you hold an online event? Unlike other types of events, virtual conferences and webinars don’t require much expertise. You won’t need any special equipment either. Another great advantage is that attendance is unlimited. This gives brands a chance to widen their reach.

Types of Virtual Events

From online conferences and webinars to virtual trade shows and networking sessions, these events offer unparalleled flexibility and reach.

Virtual summits

Virtual summits are online events that gather thought leaders, industry experts, and audiences from around the globe to discuss, share insights, and learn about specific topics or industries. These events are typically spread over one or more days, featuring multiple sessions, keynote speakers, and interactive elements like Q&A sessions, panels, and networking opportunities.

Speakers, participants, presenters, and guests can participate from any part of the world. Aside from allowing significant savings, it will let you reach a wider audience. Moreover, international players give more status to your online event.

You can send invitations in advance and record the sessions. Thus, you promote attendee engagement by making the recordings available after the event.

Key features

1. Keynote Sessions: High-profile speakers deliver presentations on important topics.
2. Panel Discussions: Groups of experts discuss specific issues, offering multiple perspectives.
3. Breakout Sessions: Smaller, focused sessions on niche topics allowing for deeper dives.
4. Networking Opportunities: Virtual lounges or breakout rooms for attendees to connect.
5. Interactive Tools: Live polls, Q&A sessions, and chat functions to engage participants.
6. On-Demand Access: Recorded sessions available post-event for attendees to revisit.

Virtual summits are very popular because they bring excellent results. Presenting keynote speakers and reaching more people are some of the advantages of conferences. Unlike other types of virtual events, this option is great for marketing purposes.

Virtual conferences

Virtual conferences are similar to virtual summits but often focus more on business and professional development within a specific industry. They can include trade shows, product demonstrations, and extensive networking opportunities, making them more comprehensive and commercially oriented.

Organize a virtual conference to hold large company-wide events in multi-track or multi-day formats. You’ll also create brand awareness and generate more leads. Community building is another great plus.

Key features

1. Exhibitor Booths: Virtual spaces where companies can showcase their products/services.
2. Workshops and Training: Practical sessions designed to educate and train attendees.
3. Product Launches: Platforms for companies to introduce new products or services.
4. Networking Events: Structured networking sessions using AI-powered matchmaking or scheduled meetings.
5. Interactive Exhibits: Virtual reality or 3D environments for immersive experiences.
6. Customizable Agendas: Attendees can tailor their schedules based on their interests.

Tips for success at virtual summits and conferences

• Engage with Attendees: Keep communication lines open before, during, and after the event.
• Offer Value: Make sure that sessions provide actionable insights and high-quality content.
• Leverage Technology: Use the latest tools to create a seamless and interactive experience.
• Be Inclusive: Make the event accessible to people with disabilities by including features like closed captioning and easy navigation.

Online trade shows

Online trade shows have transformed how businesses showcase their products and services, connect with potential buyers, and expand their market reach. These virtual events simulate the experience of traditional trade shows but offer the added benefits of global accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and extensive data analytics.

From virtual booths to live demos and networking sessions, online trade shows provide a comprehensive platform for exhibitors and attendees to interact.

Key features

1. Virtual Booths: Digital spaces where exhibitors display their products, services, and promotional materials.
2. Live Demonstrations: Real-time presentations and product demos to showcase offerings.
3. Interactive Chats: Instant messaging, video calls, and chat functions for direct communication between exhibitors and attendees.
4. Webinars and Workshops: Educational sessions and training opportunities led by industry experts.
5. Networking Opportunities: Virtual lounges, breakout rooms, and AI-powered matchmaking to facilitate connections.
6. On-Demand Content: Recorded sessions and downloadable materials available for attendees to access post-event.
7. Data Analytics: Detailed insights on attendee behavior, engagement metrics, and lead generation.

Tips for success

• Define clear objectives.
• Select a robust virtual event platform.
• Engage exhibitors by providing clear guidelines and training.
• Develop a comprehensive agenda that includes live demos, webinars, and networking sessions.
• Promote the event through multi-channel marketing strategies and manage registrations with a user-friendly system.
• Incorporate interactive elements like live Q&A sessions and gamification, ensure technical preparedness with thorough testing and support, and facilitate networking through virtual lounges and AI-powered matchmaking.
• Post-event, follow up with thank-you emails, provide access to recorded sessions, and collect feedback to refine future events.

Webinars

Webinars have become a powerful tool for businesses and organizations to educate, engage, and connect with their audiences online. These live, interactive sessions typically focus on specific topics and feature presentations from experts, followed by Q&A segments where attendees can engage directly with the speakers. Webinars are versatile, catering to a range of purposes such as training, lead generation, product demonstrations, and industry insights.

Webinars offer more benefits than in-person events, as you can reach a wider audience. For many people, it’s easier to attend virtually than to commute to a location; they spend less money and save time. Also, virtual attendees can ask questions anonymously, and hosts can provide answers.

These types of virtual events are perfect for single-track education. When you host a webinar, you can limit the interaction with the target audience. This approach is different from training sessions or meetings, and thus it’s ideal for particular purposes. This includes lectures, panel discussions, tutorials, and product presentations.

Key features

1. Expert Presentations: Delivered by thought leaders or industry experts, providing valuable insights and information.
2. Interactive Elements: Live Q&A sessions, polls, and chat functions to engage the audience.
3. Visual Aids: Use of slides, videos, and screen sharing to enhance the presentation.
4. Recording and On-Demand Access: Webinars are often recorded, allowing attendees to view the content later.
5. Analytics and Reporting: Detailed insights into attendee engagement, participation, and feedback.

Tips for success

• Develop a clear agenda and structure for your webinar.
• Create engaging and visually appealing slides or materials.
• Familiarize yourself with the webinar platform and its features.
• Start with a strong introduction to grab attention and set the tone.
• Use interactive elements like polls, Q&A sessions, and chat functions to keep attendees engaged.
• Encourage participation by asking questions and responding to comments
• Have a backup plan for technical difficulties, such as alternative communication channels.
• Stay calm and composed if issues arise, and communicate transparently with your audience.
• Have technical support available to assist with troubleshooting.

Launching virtual products

Whether it’s a new software, an app, or a digital service, the success of the launch can significantly impact its market reception and adoption.

These events can help you present your products creatively. Virtual launches are an exciting way to release your latest product to the market. You won’t regret using this powerful tool to reach your target audience.

If there’s a secret element in your product, you can leverage it on your social media profiles. Release daily posts revealing some of the secrets and create expectations.

Virtual product launches offer unique advantages, such as reaching a global audience and leveraging interactive digital tools to create engaging experiences.

By choosing this approach, you’ll create an impact on your virtual attendees that will certainly last. There are many other strategies to follow, but this one is great when introducing a new product.

Key features

1. Live Demonstrations: Showcases the product’s features and benefits in real-time.
2. Interactive Q&A Sessions: Allows potential customers to ask questions and receive immediate answers.
3. Engaging Content: Includes videos, infographics, and testimonials to highlight the product’s value.
4. Special Offers: Provides exclusive deals or discounts to early adopters.
5. Analytics and Feedback: Gathers real-time data on audience engagement and reactions.

Tips for success

• Set clear, measurable KPIs to track success.
• Build anticipation leading up to the event through teaser campaigns and sneak peeks.
• Understand who your ideal customers are and what their needs and preferences are.
• Tailor your messaging and content to resonate with this audience.
• Select a virtual event platform that supports live streaming, interactive features, and robust analytics (e.g., Zoom, Hopin, ON24).
• Ensure the platform can handle the expected number of attendees.
• Conduct dry runs to test the platform, audio, and video quality.
• Provide special offers, discounts, or exclusive content to attendees.
• Use these incentives to encourage early adoption and create a sense of urgency.

Internal hybrid events

Internal hybrid events have become invaluable for companies with employees scattered across different regions. These events seamlessly blend in-person and virtual participation, making it possible to connect, communicate, and collaborate with team members from various locations without the prohibitive costs of travel.

Hybrid events are particularly effective for crucial gatherings such as sales kick-offs, town halls, and company-wide meetings, ensuring that everyone receives the same message and engages with the same content, regardless of their physical location.

Key features

• Interactive Live Streaming: High-quality live video streaming for virtual attendees to join the event in real-time, with multi-camera setups and professional audio.
• Virtual and In-Person Participation: Integration of virtual attendees with in-person participants through interactive tools, ensuring equal engagement opportunities.
• Engagement Tools: Live polls, Q&A sessions, and chat functions to facilitate interaction between attendees and speakers, along with virtual breakout rooms for small group discussions.
• Content Accessibility: On-demand access to recorded sessions for those in different time zones or who miss the live event, with downloadable resources like slides and documents.
• Advanced Registration and Ticketing: Streamlined registration process accommodating both virtual and in-person attendees, with customizable ticketing options.

Tips for success

• Use polls, Q&A sessions, and chat functions to encourage participation from all attendees.
• Incorporate multimedia elements like videos, slides, and live demonstrations to enhance engagement.
• Use internal communication channels like email, intranet, and team chat apps to promote the event.
• Encourage managers and team leaders to advocate participation.
• Use analytics tools to track engagement and participation from both in-person and virtual attendees.
• Be ready to make real-time adjustments to address any issues or enhance the experience.

Wedding expo virtual event

A virtual wedding expo is an innovative and engaging way for couples to explore wedding vendors, trends, and services from the comfort of their own home. It brings together a wide array of exhibitors, including florists, photographers, venues, dress designers, and caterers, in a dynamic online environment.

Virtual wedding expos offer a unique opportunity for vendors to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience of soon-to-be-wed couples, while attendees can conveniently gather inspiration and make informed decisions for their special day.

Key features

• Virtual Booths: Vendors can set up interactive virtual booths, allowing attendees to explore products and services, view photos and videos, and download brochures.
• Live Demonstrations: Real-time presentations and demos by vendors, showcasing their offerings such as wedding dresses, catering options, or floral arrangements.
• Engaging Content: Includes videos, 360-degree venue tours, and live streaming of bridal fashion shows to provide a comprehensive experience.
• Networking Opportunities: Chat functions and virtual networking lounges for attendees to interact with vendors and other couples, fostering connections and sharing ideas.
• Exclusive Offers: Special discounts and deals for attendees, encouraging early bookings and purchases from vendors.

Tips for success

• Invite a diverse range of wedding vendors to participate, from photographers to venues to dress designers.
• Provide them with guidelines and support to set up their virtual booths effectively.
• Encourage exhibitors to prepare high-quality videos, virtual tours, and interactive presentations.
• Plan live streaming events like bridal fashion shows or cake decorating demos to captivate the audience.
• Send thank-you emails to attendees with links to recorded sessions and additional resources.
• Collect feedback through surveys to understand attendee satisfaction and gather insights for future events.

Question and answer sessions with influencers

Question and Answer (Q&A) sessions with influencers are dynamic and engaging events that allow audiences to interact directly with personalities they admire. These sessions can be held on various platforms, such as social media, webinars, or dedicated event platforms, and provide a valuable opportunity for influencers to connect with their followers in a more personal and interactive manner.

Inviting an expert is a great idea to create enthusiasm and attract more people. Another alternative is to invite a celebrity for a question-and-answer session. Moreover, the virtual event platforms available today make this much easier to organize.

Keep in mind that this approach allows you to create a personal connection with your audience. This can only translate into benefits for your brand.

Key features

• Live Interaction: Real-time engagement where the audience can ask questions and receive immediate responses from the influencer.
• Authentic Engagement: Genuine, unscripted conversations that provide insights into the influencer’s thoughts, experiences, and expertise.
• Multimedia Integration: Use of videos, images, and other multimedia elements to enhance the session and keep it visually appealing.
• Broad Accessibility: The ability to reach a wide audience regardless of geographic location, often through platforms like Instagram Live, YouTube Live, or Zoom.
• Diverse Topics: Flexibility to cover a range of topics, from personal stories and professional advice to specific themes relevant to the audience’s interests.

Tips for success

• Define the goals of the Q&A session, such as increasing brand awareness, providing expert insights, or engaging with followers.
• Set clear metrics to measure the success of the session.
• Select a platform that supports live interaction and suits the audience’s preferences (e.g., Instagram Live, YouTube Live, Zoom).
• Ensure the platform has features like chat functions, polling, and real-time analytics.
• Compile a list of potential questions to guide the session, ensuring a mix of pre-submitted and live questions.
• Prepare multimedia elements like images or videos that the influencer can refer to during the session.

Types of virtual events: concerts

These events can range from intimate acoustic sessions to full-scale productions with immersive visuals and interactive elements. Even in 2022, they have been quite popular, and the reason is simple: people from all over the world can listen to their favorite artists.

Previously, only fans from the U.K., the U.S., or Canada could enjoy these experiences, but now things are different. Also, several musicians can get together in one virtual environment.

Online concerts can be a great way to raise money. You can use these for solidarity purposes through initiatives like One World.

Key features:

• High-Quality Live Streaming: Professional-grade video and audio streaming to deliver a seamless concert experience.
• Interactive Elements: Real-time interaction through chat functions, live polls, and social media integration to engage the audience.
• Virtual Stage Design: Use of green screens, augmented reality, and virtual environments to create visually stunning stage setups.
• Exclusive Content: Behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and exclusive performances available only to attendees.

Virtual networking events

Virtual networking events, though smaller in scale compared to major conferences, play a crucial role in fostering connections and enhancing the success of virtual engagements.

These events are designed to facilitate meaningful interactions among participants, whether for professional growth, team building, or academic collaboration. Hosting virtual networking events like “happy hours” can promote camaraderie, serve as icebreakers, and strengthen bonds within teams, making them an essential component of any virtual event strategy.

Although these are not large events, they are important. Connections are key to hosting a successful virtual event, and thus networking becomes essential.

Key features

• Interactive Platforms: Utilization of user-friendly platforms that support video conferencing, chat functions, and breakout rooms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Hopin).
• Structured Agenda: A well-planned schedule that includes introductions, icebreaker activities, discussion topics, and closing remarks to ensure productive interactions.
• Engagement Tools: Features like polls, Q&A sessions, and live chats to facilitate real-time engagement and keep participants actively involved.
• Breakout Rooms: Smaller virtual rooms for more focused discussions, allowing participants to network in a more intimate setting.
• Virtual Business Cards: Digital exchange of contact information to facilitate post-event connections and collaborations.

Tips for success

• Create a detailed schedule with a balance of structured activities and open networking time.
• Include icebreaker activities, discussion topics, and opportunities for informal conversations.
• Plan interactive activities like virtual games, themed discussions, or collaborative projects to keep participants engaged.
• Use polls, Q&A sessions, and chat functions to facilitate real-time interaction.

Virtual exhibitions

Virtual exhibitions have become an innovative way to showcase products, services, and art to a global audience.

These digital events replicate the experience of physical exhibitions, offering interactive and immersive experiences through virtual booths, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Virtual exhibitions are accessible, cost-effective, and provide an expansive reach, making them an ideal solution for businesses, artists, and organizations looking to connect with a diverse audience.

They bring benefits to every participant. With these events, you provide a virtual space where attendee networking is possible. Also, marketers and organizers can have an enhanced experience that provides value.

Undoubtedly, with a virtual experience like this, you can attract more people and expand your reach.

Key features

• Virtual Booths: Interactive digital spaces where exhibitors can display products, videos, brochures, and other multimedia content.
• Live Demonstrations: Real-time product demos, presentations, and workshops that engage attendees and showcase offerings effectively.
• Networking Opportunities: Chat functions, video calls, and virtual lounges that facilitate real-time interaction and connection between attendees and exhibitors.
• Customizable Environments: Tailored virtual spaces that reflect the branding and aesthetic of the exhibitors, enhancing the immersive experience.
• On-Demand Content: Recorded sessions, webinars, and downloadable resources that attendees can access at their convenience.
• Interactive Tools: Features like live polls, Q&A sessions, and virtual tours that keep attendees engaged and provide valuable feedback.

Job fair virtual events

Virtual job fairs are a powerful type of virtual events for for connecting job seekers with potential employers in a convenient, efficient, and engaging digital environment. These events replicate the experience of traditional job fairs by offering interactive booths, live chats, webinars, and networking opportunities, making it easier for recruiters and candidates to connect without the constraints of geographic location.

Job and career fairs are excellent places to boost your professional development. When these are held as virtual events, you can attend without the hassle of traveling and with zero expenses.

While traditional career fairs have lots of people rushing from one booth to another, virtual fairs are much simpler. Forget about dressing up and decrease the level of stress that these fairs usually entail. Take the next big opportunity through a virtual job fair.

Key features

• Virtual Booths: Interactive spaces where employers can showcase their company, share job openings, and provide multimedia content such as videos and brochures.
• Live Chats and Video Interviews: Real-time communication tools that allow job seekers to interact directly with recruiters through chat functions or video calls.
• Webinars and Workshops: Sessions on resume writing, interview tips, industry trends, and other career-related topics to provide valuable insights to job seekers.
• Networking Opportunities: Features like virtual lounges and breakout rooms to facilitate networking among attendees and recruiters.
• Resume Upload and Matching: Tools for job seekers to upload their resumes and for recruiters to search and match candidates based on qualifications and experience.

Types of virtual events: fundraisers

Virtual fundraisers have become an essential tool for nonprofit organizations, charities, and community groups to generate support and raise funds in a convenient and innovative way. These events leverage digital platforms to engage donors, promote causes, and create meaningful experiences that inspire generosity. Virtual fundraisers can take various forms, from online auctions to live streaming events, and offer numerous benefits including wider reach, cost efficiency, and enhanced engagement.

If you have a nonprofit organization, nonprofit fundraising is a part of your regular event schedule. Imagine the benefits of holding this event virtually.

Fundraisers can have different formats and accept various types of virtual events. For instance, you can host an informational or entertainment event and use interactive tools. It will be easier for attendees to participate online, and hence, they will be more prone to collaboration.

Finally, consider donating part of your earnings to the cause that you’re supporting.

Key features

• Live Streaming Events: Real-time broadcasts that include performances, speeches, and interactive segments to engage and entertain participants.
• Online Auctions: Digital platforms where participants can bid on items, experiences, and services, with proceeds going to the cause.
• Donation Pages: Customized web pages with secure payment gateways where supporters can make contributions and learn more about the cause.
• Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Campaigns that empower supporters to create their own fundraising pages and solicit donations from their networks.
• Virtual Galas: Elegant online events that replicate the experience of a traditional gala, including entertainment, speeches, and opportunities to donate.
• Interactive Challenges: Fun and engaging challenges that encourage participants to raise funds, such as virtual runs, walks, or creative competitions.

A Conclusion on Different Types of Virtual Events That Actually Work

In the same way as a physical event, virtual events have certain purposes. This can be to increase lead conversion, convey a message, build loyalty, or create brand awareness.

In any case, there are different types of virtual events that you can use. Check out this guide and choose the right type according to your objectives. Then, all you need is impeccable organization and lots of creativity. With this, you’re ready to host a successful virtual event.

Want to learn more about virtual events?

If you enjoyed reading this article on the types of virtual events you can organize, we’ve prepared even more resources packed with actionable tips that will help you organize the best virtual events:

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FAQs About Different Types of Virtual Events

1. What is a virtual conference and how does it differ from an in-person conference?

A virtual conference is a web-based gathering that mimics an actual conference. Attendees can use their own devices to take part in workshops, keynote addresses, networking events, and other activities. The fact that virtual conferences don’t require attendees to travel to a real site reduces costs and broadens accessibility. This is one of the key distinctions between virtual and in-person conferences.

2. What are the different types of virtual events and which one is best for my business needs?

Webinars, virtual conferences, trade exhibits, product launches, job fairs, and networking occasions are some of the most popular kinds of virtual events. Your goals, target market, and financial constraints will determine the kind of virtual event that is best for your organization. For instance, a virtual trade expo can be perfect for B2B companies, whereas a virtual job fair might be better for finding talent.

3. How can I make my virtual trade show more interactive and engaging for attendees?

You can include interactive components like live chats, Q&A sessions, polls, and product demos to make a virtual trade fair more interesting. To encourage visitors to stop by your booth, you can also provide virtual swag bags, prizes, and discounts. Engagement can also be raised by constructing an immersive experience using virtual reality or 360-degree video.

4. What are the benefits of hosting a virtual job fair and how can I ensure success?

Virtual job fairs give businesses an affordable method to engage with potential applicants from around the globe. By removing geographic restrictions, you may draw in a larger talent pool and shorten the hiring process.

Using a trustworthy virtual platform, providing thorough job descriptions and company information, and providing opportunities for networking and one-on-one talks with prospects are all necessary steps to success.

5. How do I create a successful virtual product launch event that generates buzz and sales?

You should use email marketing and social media efforts to build anticipation for your virtual product launch event. You can give a live demonstration of the product or show a video of it being used, offer special discounts or early access, and host an expert Q&A session during the event. In order to increase discussion and revenue, you can also nudge participants to post about their experiences on social media using a customized hashtag.

6. How can I incorporate networking opportunities into my virtual event?

Use breakout rooms or virtual lounges to encourage networking among guests by providing spaces for them to mingle and converse. Additionally, you might provide one-on-one meetings or quick networking events. Networking can be made easier after the event by encouraging guests to exchange their contact information and LinkedIn accounts.

7. What are the best virtual event platforms available on the market and how do I choose the right one for my event?

Depending on the scale, complexity, and objectives of your event, different virtual event systems are best: Amelia, Trafft, Microsoft Teams, Eventbrite, Zoom, and other well-liked solutions. Think about things like cost, functionality, security, and support when selecting a platform. It’s crucial to test the platform beforehand to make sure it will work for you.

8. How can I measure the success of my virtual event and what metrics should I be tracking?

You may monitor data like attendance, engagement, comments, and income to gauge the performance of your virtual event. To track website traffic and conversions, you can also utilize programs like Google Analytics or software designed specifically for events.

Prior to your event, it’s critical to establish clear objectives. You should also use data to assess performance and pinpoint areas in need of improvement.

9. What are some creative ideas for virtual team-building events that promote collaboration and engagement?

Activities like virtual escape rooms, trivia contests, online cookery lessons, and virtual scavenger hunts are examples of creative virtual team-building activities.

Other suggestions include online movie or book clubs, competitions between teams, and group workouts. The secret is to come up with enjoyable and interesting activities that foster teamwork, communication, and connection.

10. How can I create an immersive virtual experience that feels as engaging as an in-person event?

Utilize resources like virtual reality, 360-degree video, or augmented reality to create an immersive virtual experience. Additionally, you can add interactive components like real-time polls, Q&A sessions, or virtual booths.

Providing top-notch audio and video production can help enhance the event’s engagement. Finally, encouraging participation from attendees through interactive activities or social media can improve the overall experience and make it seem more like a live event.

Author Tamara Jovanovic

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