A hybrid event that is both an online event and later an in-person event is a type of event that combines the benefits of both virtual and in-person events. In this type of event, the organizers first hold an online event, which can be attended by participants from all over the world.
After the online event, the organizers then hold an in-person event, which provides participants with the opportunity to meet each other face-to-face, network, and engage in hands-on activities.
The main advantage of this type of hybrid event is that it allows participants who are unable to attend the in-person event to still benefit from the virtual event.
This type of hybrid event also allows for greater flexibility in terms of attendance, as participants can choose to attend either the online event, the in-person event, or both.
While target group considerations are always important, this event type offers both online and in-person participation, so the target group will be combined.
Goal of event:
- What is the goal of your event?
Example of event goals compatible with blended event formats:
- Boosting sales.
- Creating connections between Practice Enterprises.
- Networking.
- Increasing community engagement.
- Spreading awareness of the Practice Enterprise concept.
When planning a hybrid event, it’s important to consider both in-person and online event formats. These two types of events have distinct characteristics, which you can learn more about under event formats. By combining the benefits of both in-person and online events, you can create a unique hybrid experience that offers greater flexibility and accessibility for attendees.
Hybrid events can offer several benefits, such as:
- Increased reach: A hybrid event can allow people who cannot attend the physical event to still participate and engage with the content.
- Cost savings: Hybrid events can be more cost-effective than traditional in-person events, as they require fewer resources and can reach a wider audience.
- Flexibility: Attendees have the option to attend either in-person or virtually, depending on their preference and availability.
- Many different competitions can be part of a blended event, as you have the option to name the winner on stage.
- Trade Fair – practice presentation, negotiation, and networking skills.
- Trainer’s Training – refresh knowledge or teach something new.
- Seminars – Learn something new.
- Global Enterprise Hhallenge – chance to network, practice collaboration, language, communication and problem-solving.
- Technology: The technology requirements for a hybrid event can be extensive
- Venue: You’ll need a physical venue for the in-person event.
- Marketing and promotion: You’ll need to promote your event to both in-person and virtual attendees,
- Budget: A hybrid event can be more expensive than a purely in-person or online event, due to the additional technology, staffing, and venue costs.
When arranging any form of event, it is important to consider how you can involve others both in your own organization and outside. Various tasks which stakeholders and other staff from your organization might be able to help with:
- Advertising and communication.
- Judging competitions.
- Providing feedback to attendees.
- Key-note speaker.
- Event sponsors.
- Setting up the event space.
- Registering and guiding attendees.
- Increased accessibility allows attendees to join the way they prefer or is possible for them.
- Increased engagement allowing both audiences to interact.
- Flexibility.
- Reduced engagement: Online events can often lack the same level of engagement as in-person events.
- Participating online only: Online participants may get into a different mindset and have a different sense of responsibility and community in comparison to in-person participants. If the online participation was chosen due to the lack of travel resources and financial capacities, this may create a different ‘feel’ for online participants. Suggestion: Think about sessions or competitions on how to involve and include especially online participants. Make them feel part of the event.
- Technical difficulties: Hosting an online event can be complex, and technical difficulties such as internet connectivity issues or platform glitches can occur.
- Reduced networking opportunities: While it’s possible to facilitate some networking opportunities in online events, they may not be as effective as in-person networking opportunities.
- Technology challenges: Hybrid events require the use of technology to connect the in-person and online components. This can include live streaming, video conferencing, and other digital tools.
- Engaging online attendees: Keeping online attendees engaged can be more challenging than engaging in-person attendees.
- Logistics: Hybrid events require careful planning and logistics management to ensure that all components of the event run smoothly.
- Set clear goals and objectives: Before planning your event, identify your goals and objectives for both the in-person and online components.
- Test and rehearse: Test and rehearse your technology and event logistics well in advance of the event.
- Communicate clearly: Communicate clearly with attendees about the event format and expectations.
- Follow up: Follow up with attendees after the event to gather feedback and insights.