Maximizing Engagement at Virtual Events: Key Strategies for Success

In today’s virtual event landscape, keeping attendees engaged isn’t just about what happens during the event—it begins well before the “doors” open and continues long after they close. Here are some essential strategies to boost engagement at every stage of your event lifecycle.

1. Engage Early and Open Platforms in Advance

Studies show that up to 67% of networking happens before the event even starts. Allowing attendees and exhibitors access to the event platform 3-4 weeks in advance helps build anticipation and enables pre-event connections. Early platform access can increase user activation by up to 10%, with attendees engaging in tutorials, self-service onboarding, and connecting with others well before the event kicks off.

2. Facilitate Pre-Event Networking

At FormulatedBy, we use Swapcard as our platform of choice to leverage AI-powered matchmaking and meeting scheduling, making it easy for attendees and exhibitors to connect in advance. Insights from Swapcard’s The State of Event Engagement - Vol 1 report shows that facilitating these early connections significantly boosts engagement, as participants enter the event with established networks and meaningful connections.

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3. Keep the Event Open After Closing

Don’t close the virtual doors once the main sessions end. With up to 12% of networking occurring post-event, maintaining platform access allows attendees to continue connecting, discussing, and networking, ensuring the community remains active year-round. This approach can help create lasting value and increase the likelihood of attendee return for future events.

4. Smaller Events for Organic Networking

Smaller conferences and trade show events often see higher networking success, as they provide a more intimate setting for attendees to connect. For larger events, consider using AI-matching tools to replicate this organic connection and drive higher engagement and meeting requests.

Conclusion

Maximizing engagement in virtual events requires a 365-day mindset, with thoughtful planning for pre-event, live, and post-event phases. By giving attendees early platform access, facilitating pre-event networking, and encouraging continued engagement after the event, you can build a vibrant community that keeps attendees and exhibitors coming back year after year.

Want to launch a virtual event or community but don’t know where to start? Feel free to DM me directly.