A hybrid event is a way of presenting your tradeshow, conference, workshop or performance with a ‘live’ in-person audience as well as inviting an even larger audience to watch ‘virtually’. 

We get it, it seems like a whole other layer that you need to organise as an events manager. You might be exhausted by the constant flux over the last few years, you may think that now in-person events are back there is no need to carry on with virtual offerings too which of course involves many levels of technology and eats into your event budget.

But, hear us out, there are many benefits to continuing this style of event.

Larger Audiences

OK, this one is the most obvious benefit that became apparent when hybrid events really came to the fore, but what’s not to love about having more people involved no matter where they are in the world? 

The event could be broadcast live via a streaming service including live interaction in way of polls, surveys or Q and A’s. Or you could ask for input from your audience ahead of the event to use in a scripted and pre-recorded set up which you release as a ‘video-on-demand’ rental to boost the excitement and FOMO factor. 

Adding a hashtag, keeping track of metrics from the streaming service and asking for feedback afterwards is a perfect way to measure the success of your event, you’ll be surprised how far you can reach.

Cost

If you are having a smaller crowd than you would have done in previous years, then you’ll already be saving costs by hiring a much smaller location.  Add to that, less expenditure is needed on travel expenses, catering, goodie bags, security, physical resources and staff needed to put the event on, and savings really start to add up.  And if your event is ticketed then obviously, it allows you to generate more income too.

You will, of course, be spending some of that saving on content and tech in order for both ‘in-person’ and ‘virtual audience’ to benefit, but the return on investment can be huge, especially given that the content can then be used for years to come.  Just look at it as building your own library of content which will be forever available at your fingertips.

Sustainability

Similarly to cost, reducing how many people will physically be attending, means there will be a lot fewer carbon emissions, resources, and waste produced for your event.  The average conference attendee emits approximately 145 kg of CO2 emissions per day, the equivalent of heating the average home for 22 days add in any extensive travel, this number can soar to almost two tonnes per attendee.  

The size of our business carbon footprints is something that we all need to consider with every decision made, so in that vein, hybrid events really help to find that balance for wanting the best of both worlds; physically connecting with your audience whilst also allowing a larger group to benefit from what you have to offer, without putting any extra pressure on the planet.

Want more information?  Well, we have a FREE E-Book which gives you our top tips for hybrid events.