The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the way businesses operate. The need for social distancing has made it challenging for companies to host physical events, leading to the rise of virtual events in the corporate event planning industry. Corporate virtual events have now become the norm, with many companies adopting this new form of engagement to continue their operations. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about corporate virtual events, including what they are, how to find and select them, the various strategies and tactics involved in implementing them, and the leading sources of corporate virtual events services used by the highest profile event planning companies with examples.
What are Corporate Virtual Events Services?
Corporate virtual events are online events that allow businesses to connect with their clients, employees, and other stakeholders using various digital technologies. These events can be hosted through webinars, live streaming, video conferences, and virtual reality platforms. With the right tools, businesses can create highly interactive and immersive experiences that can replicate physical events, allowing them to connect with their audiences in real-time, regardless of their location.
Finding and Selecting Corporate Virtual Events Services
The first step in finding and selecting the right corporate virtual events service provider is to understand your event's objectives and goals. Determine the type of event you want to host, your target audience, and the message you want to convey. Once you have identified your needs, you can then research and shortlist providers that can cater to your specific requirements. Look for providers with a strong reputation, experience, and a track record of delivering successful virtual events. It is also essential to review their portfolio and assess their technical capabilities and the range of services they offer.
Strategies in Implementing Corporate Virtual Events Services
The success of corporate virtual events depends on careful planning and execution. Here are some of the strategies and tactics to keep in mind when implementing corporate virtual events services:
Engage Your Audience: Use interactive tools like polls, Q&A sessions, and surveys to keep your audience engaged throughout the event. This can help increase participation and create a memorable experience.
Practice Makes Perfect: Conduct several practice sessions with your speakers, moderators, and technical teams to iron out any issues before the actual event. This can help ensure a smooth and flawless delivery.
Keep it Simple: Make sure the virtual event is easy to navigate, with clear instructions on how to participate. Avoid using too many complex tools that can be overwhelming for participants.
Promote Your Event: Use social media, email marketing, and other promotional channels to increase awareness of your virtual event. This can help generate more registrations and increase your reach.
Leading Sources of Corporate Virtual Events Services
Here are some of the leading sources of corporate virtual events services used by the highest profile event planning companies:
Zoom: Zoom is a popular video conferencing platform that allows businesses to host virtual events with up to 1000 participants. With features like screen sharing, breakout rooms, and virtual backgrounds, businesses can create engaging and interactive events.
Hopin: Hopin is an all-in-one virtual events platform that allows businesses to host live, hybrid, and on-demand events. With features like networking, sponsors, and analytics, Hopin can help create a professional and interactive experience.
Microsoft Teams: Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that also offers video conferencing capabilities. With features like chat, file sharing, and virtual whiteboards, businesses can use Teams to create immersive and collaborative virtual events.
15 Instances of Effective High Profile Corporate Virtual Events Service Stories
1. IBM - IBM's Think Digital event was a virtual conference that attracted over 90,000 attendees from around the world. The event featured over 100 sessions, including keynotes, workshops, and roundtables.
2. Salesforce - Salesforce's Dreamforce event was transformed into a virtual experience, featuring keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities for attendees. The event was held on a virtual platform that allowed attendees to explore different areas and engage with content and other attendees. The event was attended by thousands of people from all over the world.
3. Google - Google's Cloud Next event was transformed into a virtual event in 2020, featuring keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and interactive demos. The event was held on a virtual platform that allowed attendees to participate in live Q&A sessions with speakers and other attendees.
4. Amazon - Amazon's AWS re:Invent conference was held virtually in 2020, featuring keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and interactive demos. The event was held on a virtual platform that allowed attendees to interact with each other and engage with the content.
5. Cisco - Cisco's Webex platform offers a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling, Q&A sessions, and breakout rooms. Cisco's virtual events platform also includes features like event registration, audience analytics, and virtual event production services. Their headquarters is located at 170 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134.
6. Deloitte Digital - Deloitte Digital's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling and virtual networking. Deloitte Digital has a team of experienced event planners who work with clients to design and execute virtual events that meet their specific needs and goals. Their virtual events platform also includes features like audience analytics and interactive content. Deloitte Digital's headquarters is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112.
7. PwC - PwC's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform is designed to create engaging virtual experiences for clients and attendees, with features like virtual breakout rooms, live polling, and personalized attendee profiles. PwC's virtual events platform also includes event registration and management services, as well as analytics tools to help clients better understand attendee behavior and engagement. Their headquarters is located at 300 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10017.
8. Ernst & Young (EY) - EY's Virtual Events platform offers a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking. EY's virtual events platform also includes features like event registration, audience analytics, and virtual event production services. Their headquarters is located at 5 Times Square, New York, NY 10036.
9. McKinsey & Company - McKinsey & Company's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. Their platform is designed to provide a seamless virtual event experience for clients and attendees alike, with features like interactive breakout sessions, live polling, and virtual networking opportunities. McKinsey's virtual events platform also includes event registration and management services, as well as audience analytics tools to help clients better understand attendee engagement and behavior. Their headquarters is located at 55 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022.
10. KPMG - KPMG's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking. KPMG's virtual events platform also includes features like event registration, audience analytics, and virtual event production services. Their headquarters is located at 345 Park Ave, New York, NY 10154.
11. Bain & Company - Bain & Company's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as virtual breakout rooms and live Q&A sessions.
12. Booz Allen Hamilton - Booz Allen Hamilton's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as virtual breakout rooms and live Q&A sessions.
13. Microsoft - Microsoft's Virtual Events platform offers a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking. Microsoft's virtual events platform also includes features like event registration, audience analytics, and virtual event production services. Their headquarters is located at One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052.
14. Accenture - Accenture - Accenture's Virtual Events platform provides a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform is designed to create engaging virtual experiences for clients and attendees, with features like interactive virtual booths, live Q&A sessions, and personalized attendee profiles. Accenture's virtual events platform also includes event registration and management services, as well as analytics tools to help clients better understand attendee behavior and engagement. Their headquarters is located at 161 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60601.
15. Oracle - Oracle's Virtual Events platform offers a range of virtual event services, including virtual conferences, webinars, and virtual product launches. The platform allows clients to customize their events and provides a range of engagement tools, such as live polling, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking. Oracle's virtual events platform also includes features like event registration, audience analytics, and virtual event production services. Their headquarters is located at 500 Oracle Parkway, Redwood City, CA 94065.
Conclusion In conclusion, corporate virtual events are an effective way for companies to connect with their clients, partners, and employees in a digital world. A successful virtual event requires careful planning, effective execution, and a range of engagement tools to keep attendees connected and engaged. By utilizing the services of leading virtual event providers such as Eventbrite, Cvent, and Bizzabo, companies can ensure that their virtual events are well-organized, engaging, and effective. Additionally, the virtual events platforms provided by top-tier consulting firms like IBM, Bain & Company, and Deloitte Digital offer clients a range of customizable virtual event solutions tailored to their specific needs. By taking advantage of these resources, companies can create unforgettable virtual events that drive engagement, foster collaboration, and promote growth.