Hosting a webinar can be challenging. There are many things that can go wrong, so it’s important to be as prepared as possible so things run smoothly. Here are eight best practices for hosting a webinar.
Determine which platform to use
Be sure to choose a platform that meets your needs and is also easy for those joining the webinar to use. Nicole Munoz, from Start Ranking Now, recommends getting a platform that works well on different devices, especially mobile ones.
Run a test before hosting for real
It doesn’t matter if you’re using the best hosting platform on the market, it still might malfunction. Be sure to do a test run first to ensure that everything works. Angela Ruth from Calendar recommends testing to ensure your presentation loads correctly and also using a test run as a way to get familiar with the hosting platform.
Get help from participants
It’s almost a given that someone on the line will experience technical difficulties. Wesley Mathews, from High Level Marketing, recommends running a test at the beginning of the webinar and asking participants to type in a message if they can hear you speaking and see something on the screen. This also helps engage them right from the beginning.
Hire a moderator
Peter Boyd, from PaperStreet Web Design, also recommends hiring a moderator to help with your webinar. A moderator is someone who is listening to your podcast but controlling all technological aspects of the webinar so you can focus on the presentation. They can respond to any messages from people having technical issues as well.
Make sure your system is reliable
Make sure you’re using a system that doesn’t require participants to download a strange software onto their computer Jayna Cooke, from EVENTup, says that it’s best to just have the viewer join and make sure there’s nothing else they have to do. This ensures that things run more smoothly.
Get a good microphone
You don’t have to spend a ton of money, but investing in a quality microphone is a good idea if you will be hosting numerous webinars. James McDonough, from SEE Forge, creators of FAT FINGER, recommends spending about $100 to $200 on a microphone to ensure that you sound your best when on the air.
Make sure you’re in a quiet space
Natalie MacNeil, from She Takes on the World, recommends renting a private, soundproof space with exceptional internet. Don’t rely on spotty hotel wireless internet to get the job done.
Don’t expect things to be perfect
Even if you follow all of these tips, things won’t always be perfect. Kelly Azevedo, from She’s Got Systems, says that an error-free live event doesn’t exist. Be prepared by considering what could go wrong and having a plan to engage participants in other ways while you fix any issues.
