5 Ways to Get the Most Value Out of Virtual Events for Nonprofits
Attending virtual nonprofit-focused events can be a great way to develop your skills, gain insights into what other organizations are doing, and connect with nonprofit peers. There are lots of benefits that come from virtual attendance, including reduced costs and the ability to attend events you might not have had access to otherwise. But to get the most out of these events, it’s best to approach them a little differently than you might if they were in person.
Maximize the value you get out of every virtual event with these nonprofit virtual event ideas for attendees.
1. Consider what you want to get out of the event
Many virtual events offer multiple tracks, leading to tough decisions about which sessions to attend. Review the offerings ahead of time and plan your agenda with a clear goal in mind to ensure you don’t miss the sessions and speakers that will provide the most value to you, especially if you’re only planning to attend part of the event. This is also a good way to determine whether the event is worth your time and money if you’re on the fence.
2. Minimize potential distractions
When you’re attending a virtual event from your home or workplace, it can be tempting to multitask. But if you’re responding to emails or working in another window, you’ll struggle to absorb the information being shared — and you may miss a valuable insight. Minimize distractions by blocking off time on your calendar, disabling on-screen notifications, and silencing your phone. It’s also a good idea to fill your water bottle and get comfortable in a quiet space before the event starts.
3. Test out the tech before the start time
There are lots of different virtual event platforms for nonprofits and other organizations hosting online events. If you’re not familiar with a particular platform, it’s best to spend a few minutes before the scheduled start time reading any instructions from the organizers and ensuring you know how to access the event. That way, you won’t find yourself scrambling to navigate a new tool or set up an account while the opening keynote or another must-watch session is getting underway.
4. Be an active participant
One of the best ways to get more value out of any virtual event experience is to be an active participant. Jot down any questions you want to ask the speakers when the floor opens up, and use the chat box (if there is one) to share your thoughts on the sessions and engage with fellow attendees. By being fully present, you’ll find it easier to retain the information shared, and you may pick up useful insights from the virtual discussions you engage in.
5. Check if the recording will be available later
Virtual event costs can vary, but many virtual events created for nonprofit professionals — including Impact Summit — are free to attend. If you’re interested in a free virtual event but you’re not sure if you’ll be available at the scheduled time, it’s worth registering anyway as this will often give you access to the recording after the event. And if you’re not sure whether a recording will be available later, why not email the organizers to find out? Knowing you can rewatch at your convenience means you won’t experience any FOMO about sessions that didn’t work for your schedule.
Join the global nonprofit community at Impact Summit
As you’re planning which virtual events to attend, be sure to mark your calendar for Impact Summit, taking place live on LinkedIn on June 29, 2022! Gain insights from top nonprofit leaders, hear an inspiring fireside chat from a celebrity guest, and more.
Can’t watch live? Register for Impact Summit and you can watch the recording later!
