The number of virtual conferences has increased over the last few years. And as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are even more opportunities to attend a virtual conference. Following are some of the advantages of this trend.
- More opportunities to attend a conference or other event than before
- Access to the conference in real time and also in the future as your time allows
- Additional content that isn’t part of the conference but is accessible afterward
- Lower cost - many conferences have decreased registration fees or are free, and there are no travel costs
- Easier to attend on your days off since no travel is required
Attending a conference virtually is a little different than attending in person. Following are some tips to help you get ready for your next virtual conference and help maximize your experience.
Before the conference
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1Add the conference to your calendar the same way you would if you were attending in-person.
- Block the time on your calendar as out of office.
- Set reminders/alerts for the sessions you want to attend.
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2Be aware of the time zone for the conference and adjust your schedule accordingly.
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3Set your conference schedule. Select sessions you want to attend in advance.
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4Ensure that you have all the applications you need on your computer or device. Learn how to use any new applications or platforms before the start of the conference. Be sure to visit the conference hub before the conference starts to find out how to access sessions, check your audio and address any potential issues.
During the conference
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1Minimize distractions, avoid multitasking and be in the moment. Although you are not in the room with the speaker, be present in the session, take notes if the session isn’t recorded.
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2Take advantage of prerecorded sessions. Some conferences offer both live and prerecorded sessions so you can attend them all and don’t have to choose one session over another.
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3Get social. Engage other attendees in the chat box at the session. Many conferences offer virtual networking opportunities before and during the conference.
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4Listen to your body and take breaks or have a snack. Remember to stand regularly. You can also walk and listen to the conference on your mobile device. Be sure to apply the 20-20-20 rule. Look away at something 20 feet from the computer screen every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds.
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5Be comfortable! You can attend a virtual conference in your pajamas, your ripped shirt, lying on your couch or whatever else is most comfortable for you, as most conferences have the participants’ cameras turned off.
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6Visit the exhibit hall virtually. Watch exhibitor presentations, schedule times to chat with them, etc.
After the conference
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1Access recorded sessions you weren’t able to attend.
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2Complete the conference evaluation.
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3Obtain your continuing education hours or credits.
Virtual conferences and events are expected to surge in popularity. They’re different from the in-person counterpart, but with a bit of preparation and planning, you can make the most of your next virtual event.
Tell us about your experience attending a virtual conference.
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