by Shawn Casemore
There is no doubt that we are amidst unprecedented times, particularly in the speaking industry. With social distancing regulations, bringing people together to learn and engage with one another is, at least for the time being, on hold. Why not consider hiring an engaging virtual keynote speaker?
With some simple technology, and an engaging personality, your event and its desired outcomes can still be achieved.
Virtual Events
As an example, I’ve been speaking virtually for over a decade now, beginning with online webinars that have, over the years, evolved into live streaming. The technology options have become so readily available and easy to use that shifting to a virtual event isn’t as difficult as you might think.
It comes down to recognizing a few of the distinctions between an in-person event and one that involves people viewing from a remote location. Preparation for the event itself, identifying speakers, and promoting the event are all very similar.
In fact, holding a virtual event offers two significant advantages over just having in-person events.
Virtual events allow associations and organizations to engage more people from farther away. The objections around the costs and hassle of travel are no longer an issue.
In addition, when it comes to keynote speakers, virtual events eliminate most of a speaker’s investment as it pertains to travel and accommodation.
Virtual Keynotes
For those of us who have been speaking virtually for years, this isn’t a new technology or a new approach. By using powerful examples, stories, interactive surveys, and discussions, a virtual speaker can be as engaging, if not more so, than an in-person speaker. Virtual technology offers a more intimate experience by allowing audiences to interact on a one-to-one basis with the speaker, rather than being distracted by their surroundings.
While there can be challenges in keeping attendees focused on things other than their inbox, with the right experience and strategies, great virtual keynote speakers can keep them engaged and deliver a powerful experience.
Virtual Keynote Technology
The technology that exists for delivering virtual events and virtual keynotes is far more advanced than many recognize. Sure, we’ve all heard the stories about privacy concerns, however, for a professional event, you’ll want to engage the services of a company that can offer event streaming services.
Fortunately, if you’ve been using a reputable event management company, many already have the capability themselves or have developed partnerships with companies who can.
Despite what you might think, holding virtual events or using live streaming is not new. The technology has been advancing for years and can ensure you have an engaging event that is trouble-free.
Finding Your Keynote Speaker
Not every speaker has had experience speaking virtually, and how to speak in a manner that is engaging is different when doing so virtually as opposed to in person.
This said, with the advancement of technology and the shift toward virtual events, many speakers will quickly learn and adapt to this new area within the profession.
As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I’ve been delivering virtual keynotes for nearly a decade and have had the opportunity to learn what works, and to hone my presentation accordingly. The key is to use the technology and the opportunities it provides to engage the audience.
Your Virtual Event
Don’t let the anxiety or worry of holding a virtual event limit your engagement with your members or employees.
By selecting the right speaker, with the skills to deliver a powerful virtual keynote, your event can be just as engaging as an in-person event and allow you to reach more people in a way that you’ve never thought was possible.
© Shawn Casemore 2020. All Rights Reserved.