All throughout the past 10 years, virtual events have gained popularity, especially in more recent years.

But still, some individuals continue to believe they are ineffective because of a few misunderstandings. However, many people remain skeptical due to misinformation about virtual events. Yet, virtual events may be even more effective than physical events with the correct resources and preparation.

Let us shed some light on the most common myths about virtual events:

Myth #1: Using virtual events to fulfill sales targets is less successful than utilizing in-person events

This is another common disbelief about virtual events. Virtual event attendees could have a more personalized experience, which might boost their degree of involvement and interest in the event’s topic.

Also, participants may join the event from anywhere in the world, thus expanding its reach. Additionally, virtual events offer data and analytics that can be used to optimize sales strategies and track ROI more effectively than in-person events.

Myth #2: Virtual events are a short-term fix

Many people still mistakenly believe that virtual events are just a temporary trend until in-person events are deemed safe again. However, virtual events are here to stay. Companies have noticed many increased benefits in transitioning to virtual events. Real-time and post-event data reports allow companies to make more informed decisions about their event strategy and more skillfully measure event KPIs and ROI.

Virtual events are also the solution for the new era of business. Many companies had announced their intention to keep their staff remote long-term due to proven productivity, employee preferences, and lower real estate costs. Virtual events allow companies to reach these newly decentralized audiences more easily.

Myth #3: Networking possibilities are absent from online gatherings

It is common to think that virtual events do not provide real networking opportunities. However, this is false. There are several ways to create networking opportunities at virtual events.

Virtual events can incorporate various networking activities and communication channels to better cater to individual participant preferences, including:

• Chat sessions during event sessions and as a standalone networking opportunity

• Small group video gatherings and large video meetings

• Conversations with booth representatives and the ability to schedule meetings directly from sponsor booths

• Recommended connections that direct participants to other participants to network with based on shared interests

• Video or chat happy hour sessions

• User-generated content, such as short, recordable videos

All these elements can serve as avenues for networking at virtual events. Networking at virtual events is more versatile than networking at in-person events due to the variety of options and ease of finding the right person to talk to in the directory or through a recommendation engine rather than wandering around a conference center hoping to meet the right person.

Myth #4: Participants are not engaged by virtual events

This could be true if one does not do things properly. It’s true that boring virtual events can lead to Zoom fatigue. Nonetheless, there are several strategies that presenters and organizers may employ to captivate audiences and maintain their attention. Great content is the foundation of engagement.

People will be interested regardless of the format if the content is truly spectacular. Dynamic and motivating speakers can always bring that energy in a virtual setting – and it’s often easier to book well-known speakers for virtual events due to less travel time required. There are also virtual tools such as in-session polls, Q&A, and gamification that can help maintain participant attention and stimulate interaction. If your virtual event platform provides the right tools, you won’t have any trouble engaging your audience.

Myth #5: It’s too expensive and complicated to host virtual events

Is hosting virtual events too complex and costly? It’s time to dispel the myth that virtual events are difficult and expensive to organize. Even though you must invest in a reliable platform for virtual events, running virtual events is typically less expensive than running physical events.

Preparing a Virtual Event, to obtain a general idea of the stages required in arranging a virtual event, check out our virtual event planning checklist here.

Even though it initially seems like a lot, organizing an online event is no harder than organizing a physical one. With the right platform and a team to assist you, planning virtual events should be a positive and seamless experience.

Fewer Logistics Considerations There are often fewer logistical considerations because you don’t have to worry about hotel accommodation for participants or speakers, catering, transportation to the venue, and conference center setup.

Hybrid Events are an excellent option for organizers who want to offer both in-person and online experiences.

Importance of Results Measurement Virtual Events also offer advantages in terms of results measurement. Organizers can use data analytics tools to measure participant engagement, track registrations and participant sign-ups, and measure return on investment. This can help improve future event planning and achieve specific business objectives.

Event Marketing is a key element in the success of a virtual event. To publicize the event and attract more attendees, organizers might employ internet marketing techniques including social media, email marketing, and online advertising.

Therefore, irtual events can be highly effective in achieving sales goals and providing networking opportunities. It is important to dispel the myths surrounding virtual events and recognize their potential as a valuable tool for businesses and organizations.

Myth #6: There are no opportunities for sponsors or exhibitors at virtual events

Do virtual events provide opportunities for sponsors or exhibitors?

Sponsors can still have their standard exhibition booths in a virtual format. On the Social27 virtual event platform, sponsors can design their own exhibitor microsites, assign a booth representative to engage with visitors, add content to their booth in a playlist, and see the badges of registered participants for their booth.

Virtual events also help sponsors quickly close sales. By making virtual content available before the event or meetings begin, you can speed up your business by moving customers from the awareness stage to loyal customers much more effectively.

With an in-person event, attendees typically aren’t exposed to sponsors or their products until they’re in front of their booth. With virtual events, they can browse sponsored content before the event and can be directed to relevant sponsors through a recommendation engine. This brings more relevant and informed consumers to the event sponsors.

Analytics data can also be extremely helpful for sponsors and exhibitors during virtual events. Virtual event platforms, like Social27 provide real-time analytics on visitor engagement with sponsored content and can help sponsors understand which content is most popular. Hybrid virtual events can also be an ideal solution for sponsors looking to maximize their return on investment while continuing to offer in-person events.

B2B Marketing Virtual events are also an excellent tool for B2B marketing.

Plan A Successful Virtual Event with Social27

Have you ever organized a successful virtual event? If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out! But how do you organize an engaging virtual event? It all starts with choosing the right platform. Social27 Virtual Event Platform is the ideal solution for all virtual event organizers. With its interaction tools, surveys, Q&A, and Social27 Stream, you can organize interactive sessions that will excite your audience.

Why should you choose Social27 Virtual Event Platform for your virtual events? It’s simple: the results speak for themselves. Social27 Virtual Event Platform is the most popular platform for virtual events. It is used by thousands of event organizers around the world to create engaging and memorable events.

The platform also offers advanced features to help you achieve your sales goals. With its data analysis tools, you can track and measure audience engagement during the event. This allows you to understand the needs and preferences of your audience, and plan future events that meet their expectations.

With Social27 Virtual Event Platform, you can organize hybrid events that combine live and virtual sessions. You can also integrate slide presentations, videos, and other media to make your sessions more interactive and engaging.

Finally, the platform offers event marketing tools that allow you to promote your event and attract quality participants. With its B2B marketing features, you can target specific audiences based on their industry, position, or seniority level.

In summary, Social27 Virtual Event Platform is the ideal platform for organizing virtual events that achieve your sales and marketing goals. With its advanced interaction, data analysis, and marketing features, you can create memorable events that engage your audience and strengthen your brand.

So why not try Social27 Virtual Event Platform for your next event? Book a demo today and discover how to create a successful virtual event!