What Are Hybrid Events, And Should You Start Holding More Of Them As The Pandemic Recedes?

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed our approach to holding events drastically. Virtual events turned into our new normal. Now that the world has returned to a certain level of normality, hybrid events are becoming increasingly popular. But what are they and why should you consider using them in a post-Covid era?

What are hybrid events?

Hybrid events combine live events with an online element. They are the ideal solution for companies which can hold their programs both onsite and virtually. For example, these may include conferences, trade shows or workshops. All you need to do to host a hybrid event is to have a regular live event sharing your content to an audience whilst also combining a virtual component with the use of an online webinar platform. 

Engagement is an essential part in hybrid events. As opposed to watching an event on television or a TEDx video on YouTube, your audience will be able to participate via their computer or mobile phone by asking questions or sharing feedback in real-time. Essentially, hybrid events aim to offer a seamless experience for all audiences with the integration of technology. 

When should you use hybrid events?

Using hybrid events in a post-Covid world can help your business keep engagement levels and increase your brand’s visibility and reach. Also, If you are looking to improve your organisation’s carbon footprint, hybrid events may be perfect for your business. If a part of the audience does not attend the event in-person and instead participates from home, the amount of waste left afterwards will be reduced. 

Festivals in particular have long struggled with the impact of single-use plastics. If you are looking to add a new virtual element to your business and trying to reach new revenue streams and partnership opportunities, holding hybrid events can be of great help. Another scenario where you would want to incorporate this type of event is if you would like to reach different demographics. These can be communities who may have felt unable or unsure to engage with your business before due to disabilities or their geographical location. 

Benefits of using hybrid events in a post-Covid world

Some advantages could include the greater flexibility in the case of disruption to travel. Consider the effects a global pandemic such as Covid-19 or a natural disaster may have on a physical event. By integrating hybrid events you will be able to adapt your business more quickly. Moreover, you may have noticed that your audience’s needs may have changed since the pandemic. 

More people are now working remotely and have different expectations of the events they attend. Continuing to hold hybrid events will ensure you are catering to two different audiences – those who would prefer to attend live and those who would rather watch the event from the comfort of their home. Due to this increased scalability, this approach could also lead to increased return on investments. 

Hybrid events are here to stay. They can offer a variety of benefits to your business and help you open up new opportunities for development.