ARMA’s Top Ten Tips for Moving an Event Online
The recent shift to hosting events online is one trend to which ARMA has had to readily adapt. Its recent record of virtual events includes its Annual General Meeting, its 2020 Annual Conference and its recent Regional Briefing.
Each event required a tailored approach to ensure delegates benefited from the experience as much as possible without being physically present. Based on its learnings, ARMA has compiled 10 top tips for those in the industry hoping to move their next event online.
In no particular order they are:
Communication
Send frequent event reminders containing the conference link and clear joining instructions to all registered delegates.
Stick to a Schedule
Timeliness is key – ensure speakers are prepped and ready for their allotted time to avoid confusion for those logging in late or early.
Audience Participation
Think about how audience questions can be taken. A chat box will make collating audience questions easy.
Dress Rehearsal
Test the equipment beforehand to avoid any technical hiccups. Try and setup a rehearsal with each speaker.
Recordings
Consider recording the sessions so they are available to those who couldn’t attend.
Pre-Event Questions
Get to know your audience. Use the registration or booking form as an opportunity to ask questions whilst also encouraging attendees to submit their own questions before the event.
Think Outside the Slide
If you’re presenting, don’t just think about slides – no-one likes death by PowerPoint! Use videos, drawing tools and polls to ensure variety and keep your audience engaged throughout.
Tea Breaks
Staring intently at a screen is exhausting – allow regular breaks and don’t make the sessions too long. If you’re planning a webinar longer than an hour, schedule a 10-15-minute break to allow people to get away from the screen.
FAQs
Create a troubleshooting guide and make it available to help those having technical difficulties with the chosen webinar platform.
Dress Code
Ensure speakers are aware of any ‘dress code’. At a time when so many are working from home, you need to be clear on this; if it’s a formal conference or event, you may want to advise ‘business attire’ for those speaking or presenting.
Whilst the pandemic has thrown up several challenges, the world of online events doesn’t have to be one of them. With proper planning your online event can prove to be a rewarding and highly-useful experience for delegates.
For more information on the Association of Residential Managing Agents, head to their website.
