News

30 Nov 2009 The next step in event communication

We recognize how powerful social networking can be as a communication tool for business and regularly Tweet to maintain contact with all those interested in Rapport, but this idea is beginning to expand to such a level that it is predicted that social media will soon become intrinsic to the events industry.

It is predicted in 2010 that the way we communicate will be fundamentally changed through the emergence of ‘virtual events’.

The idea is not, as many think, for the ‘Virtual’ event to replace the real thing, but instead to run along side it, complimenting and adding value. The virtual event allows us to add memory and store information on delegates which face-to-face networking could never do. It also allows us to create a continued and sustained communication channel, meaning an event does not have to start and finish within a few hours but can, in theory, begin weeks before the real event, continuing indefinitely after for as long as there is need to continue communication.

Encouraging interaction before the event can range from the basic - regular Tweets containing snippets of information for attendees, to the complex - creating on-line communities where delegates can ‘network’, increasing pre-event excitement and expectations. Monitoring these discussions can mean that event content can be tailored to focus on what the delegates want to get out of their time, maximizing engagement during the event.

If these communications lines remain open throughout the event organizers and speakers can keep abreast of the thoughts of the audience. Further to this the opportunity to continue discussions and points raised post event will ensure maximum ROI for both delegates and clients alike

Virtual events will never replace the real thing, but rather bring both components together to create a ‘super event’(1) we are excited to move along with the changing face of the events industry and while doing this we can encourage and increase communication channels, something that’s right up Rapports street!

(1) Paul Tilstone ITM chief exec taken from Event magazine Nov/Dec ‘09

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