Hosting an event, whether it's a concert, conference, or even a simple get-together, can be a significant undertaking! One of the most significant challenges organisers face is ensuring that the event reaches as many of the right people as possible. While traditional marketing and advertising tactics can be effective, one of the most potent tools available today for event managers is live streaming the event online.
Live streaming is the process of transmitting real-time video and audio over the internet. By streaming an event online, organisers can instantly reach a global audience and provide them with an experience that's just as immersive as being there in person.
In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons why you should stream your event online and how it can benefit both you and your audience.
1. Reach more people with your event
Live streaming your event online is an effective way to reach a wider audience. Rather than limiting your event's reach to only those who can attend in person, you can make it accessible to anyone with the internet. This means that people from all over the world can tune in and enjoy your event, whether they're in a different city or on the other side of the globe. Imagine the scope of this impact! Event managers are no longer restricted to simply making their events accessible to those nearby.
In addition to reaching a broader audience, live-streaming your event online also allows you to tap into new demographics. For example, if you're hosting a music festival, you may find that your online viewership skews younger than your in-person attendance. This can be an excellent opportunity to expand your brand and reach new audiences.
2. Increase engagement
Live streaming your event online also provides a more engaging experience for your audience. By providing a real-time view of the event, you can create a sense of connection between your audience and the event. This can be particularly powerful for events that are emotionally charged or visually stunning, such as a concert or sports event.
In addition to providing a more immersive experience, live streaming can also increase engagement by providing viewers with opportunities to interact with the event and other attendees. For example, you can set up a live chat room or networking space for attendees to comment on the event and interact with other viewers. This can help create a sense of community around the event and increase engagement. Essential Event Management’s online tool Crowd Connect allows you to create these spaces seamlessly. Watch this short demo to find out more.
3. Create more event income
Live streaming your event online can also be an excellent way to generate revenue. By providing a pay-per-view option, you can charge viewers to access the stream. This can be an effective way to monetise your event and generate additional revenue beyond ticket sales and sponsorships.
In addition to pay-per-view, you can also generate revenue by offering exclusive content to your online viewers. For example, you can offer backstage interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, or access to exclusive merchandise. This can create additional revenue streams and provide added value to your online viewers.
Read more about pay-per-view here.
4. Build brand recognition
Live streaming your event online can also be an effective way to build brand awareness. By making your event accessible to a global audience, you can increase exposure for your brand and create new opportunities for marketing and advertising. This can be particularly valuable for smaller brands that may not have the same level of exposure as larger, more established brands.
In addition to building brand awareness, live-streaming your event online can also help you connect with your audience on a more personal level. EEM’s CrowdConnect tool allows you to speak to your audience as a whole, a segment, or to an individual attendee. By providing a behind-the-scenes look at your event, you can create a sense of intimacy and authenticity that can be difficult to achieve through traditional marketing and advertising.
5. Increased Flexibility
Live streaming your event online also provides increased flexibility compared to traditional in-person events. For example, you can offer on-demand access to the stream, allowing viewers to watch the event at their convenience. This can be particularly valuable for international viewers who may be in different time zones.
In addition to on-demand access, live streaming your event online also allows you to be more flexible in terms of the event's format. Think: exhibitors, multiple seminar streams, streaming from multiple locations - the possibilities are huge!
If you’re planning an event and need support - trust the experts.
With over 40 years of event management experience, Essential Event Management are a team of highly skilled event specialists. We’ve helped to create conferences, tours, festivals, product launches, summits and fundraisers. We’re versatile and creative with an eye for detail - everything you need for excellence in event management.
