What are the best ways to incorporate entertainment into virtual events?

1 Choose the right platform

The first step to creating a successful virtual event is to choose the right platform that suits your needs and goals. There are many options available, from Zoom and Skype to more specialized platforms like Hopin and Remo. Depending on the type and size of your event, you may want to look for features such as breakout rooms, polls, chat, Q&A, live streaming, recording, and integration with other tools. You should also consider the ease of use, the cost, the security, and the reliability of the platform.

2 Plan ahead and test

The second step to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable virtual event is to plan ahead and test everything before going live. You don't want to deal with technical glitches, poor audio or video quality, or unexpected interruptions during your event. Make sure you have a backup plan in case something goes wrong, and communicate clearly with your speakers, performers, and attendees about the agenda, the expectations, and the instructions. Test your equipment, your internet connection, your platform, and your entertainment features beforehand, and have a moderator or a tech support person on standby.

5 Offer something unexpected

The fifth step to surprising and delighting your attendees is to offer something unexpected and memorable as part of your entertainment. You can think outside the box and try something different, innovative, or unusual that will make your event stand out and leave a lasting impression. For example, you can hire a magician, a comedian, a storyteller, a caricaturist, a puppeteer, or a mime to perform for your event. You can also organize a virtual escape room, a scavenger hunt, a bingo, a karaoke, or a trivia night for your event. You can also send your attendees some physical or digital goodies, such as snacks, drinks, gifts, vouchers, or e-books, to enhance their experience and show your appreciation.

6 Encourage participation and feedback

The sixth and final step to creating a successful and entertaining virtual event is to encourage participation and feedback from your attendees. You want to make sure that your attendees are not just passive spectators, but active participants who feel involved, valued, and heard. You can do this by asking questions, inviting comments, soliciting opinions, acknowledging contributions, and facilitating discussions. You can also use tools such as chat, Q&A, polls, surveys, quizzes, and social media to interact with your attendees and collect their feedback. You can also offer incentives, rewards, recognition, or prizes for the most engaged or creative attendees.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?