We made it out of the dumpster fire that was the year 2020 - congratulations! And we can see the light at the end of the tunnel - vaccinations are coming, and hopefully being able to see each other in person. Since hindsight is 20/20, what have we learned from the year 2020?
On a personal level, I'm sure most of us have learned or reinforced some valuable lessons from this pandemic year, including that our communities are filled with everyday heroes doing extraordinary work, the notion that it's the little things that make all the difference in life, that your health and your family (and your family's health) are EVERYTHING, and to absolutely never take anything or anyone for granted anymore.
As a team at Powered by Professionals, we have learned a great deal from 2020, the year that events were cancelled, postponed, or postponed and cancelled. We learned the word pivot, and then spent so much time pivoting our mindsets to make virtual events engaging and rewarding. Our biggest takeaways from 2020 with regard to events:
Comfort is everything
It turns out that most people do not miss getting dressed up (I am not one of those people; I am desperate for a reason to dress fancy).
Adaptability is key
No one knew what virtual events were supposed to look like, but we did know that they were going to be very different than in-person. The key was to adapt quickly and effectively, and produce quality, mission-driven content for all constituents.
Nerds rule
The tech component of virtual events remains the driving force. How to harness tech platforms to engage people virtually and ensure that all tech and connectivity and transition components run smoothly, dictated the success of virtual events.
Imperfect is perfectly OK
A little imperfection can be charming, reminding your attendees of the human aspect of your programs. People won't remember a few seconds of no sound or a frozen screen, but what they will remember is the messaging contained in the charmingly imperfect program.
Practice, practice, practice
This is not only the answer to the question "How do you get to Carnegie Hall?", but is also the answer to producing compelling virtual events, and the key to having your Board, your Honorees, and all your stakeholders experience a comfort level that allows them to enjoy their event.
Let us entertain you
People still want to be entertained! Especially now, the power of a fabulous celebrity message or a great musical performance does wonders in terms of keeping virtual attendees engaged, and happy, and willing to donate to your cause.
Keep the passion
Even with the pandemic raging around the world, the fact remains that diseases still happen and there are disadvantaged people everywhere. Your constituents are still passionate about your cause, and your message needs to get out there. People are very willing to help and donate their time and money, but you must remember to make the ask. Virtual events are a perfect opportunity to do that.
Make connections
We are all craving connections to other humans; virtual events, if done correctly, let your supporters connect with other supporters, with your cause, and with your mission. Getting those involved in your charity to explain why they do what they do is resonant and effective.
The team at Powered by Professionals has learned a great deal in the last year, and we would love to share our knowledge and expertise with you as we look ahead to a better world for us all.