No matter what event you’re planning, you always want to create a memorable experience that stays with attendees long after it’s over. Keeping your audience engaged is crucial to checking off your event as a success. Interactive strategies increase attendee involvement and make your event stand out, connecting with your audience more effectively. But how can you make sure everyone feels included and involved in the process?
1. Interactive Games
Interactive games are a fantastic way to energise your event and get your attendees actively involved. They create a lively atmosphere while fostering a sense of community among participants, making your event more enjoyable
Public Games – Your go-to for breaking the ice, helping attendees feel more relaxed and engaged. They provide a fun way to network and meet new people. As an event organiser you set a positive tone and get the participants to build excitement for the main event. Plus, they’re cost-effective; you don’t need to spend a lot to make a big impact. Attendees will appreciate the opportunity to participate in something interactive and entertaining right from the start.
- Examples: Scavenger hunts, trivia games
- Rewards: Give winners event-themed merchandise
On-Stage Competitions – Competitions are known for boosting adrenaline and enthusiasm, event engagement strategy to increase overall enjoyment. They bring a playful touch that sets your event apart. Mix up the schedule of your event with something lively and different.
- Examples: Talent shows, eating contests
- Rewards: Small prices or social media shoutouts
2. Social Media Engagement
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting events, thanks to its ability to deliver engaging short-form content, vibrant posters, trending announcements, and interactive features that captivate audiences. In fact, 87% of companies believe attendees share their event experiences on social media.
Polls and Quizzes – Using polls and quizzes on social media is a great way to gather feedback and make event decisions. This strategy boosts your event’s social media engagement by involving attendees in the planning process, making them feel more connected with the event. For example, you can use polls to get feedback, make small event decisions, and keep attendees involved.
Giveaways and Discounts – Giveaways and discounts can increase excitement and participation. For instance, offering a 10% discount on event merchandise to quiz winners encourages engagement and rewards attendees for their involvement. This approach makes attendees feel valued and more likely to share the event with friends.
3. Interactive Sessions
When organizing an event, you want to make sure all attendees feel included, no matter the age group, gender etc. Interactive sessions are perfect for audiences that thrive on active participation. If you’re hosting a conference, seminar, or workshop, these sessions cater to participants who value hands-on learning and real time interaction.
Q&A sessions – Engage your attendees directly before or during the event. For instance, allow the audience to vote on discussion topics during a keynote speech, ensuring the presentation covers areas of greatest interest.
Breakout sessions – Set up small group discussions or hands-on workshops to promote active participation. Examples include interactive workshops where participants can exchange ideas and collaborate. You can also include voluntary work opportunities, allowing interested attendees to see the behind-the-scenes process and help with setting up the stage. This adds another layer of event engagement, offering a unique perspective and deeper connection to the event.
4. Post-Event Interaction
Let’s say the event is over, and everything went according to plan. Your attendees enjoyed the event to its full potential. But it’s not over yet—you want to maintain the excitement. Engaging with your audience after the event is crucial for sustaining their interest and gathering valuable feedback.
Sustaining Engagement – Keep the excitement alive by using social media to gather feedback and continue the conversation. For example, post-event surveys and follow-up polls can provide valuable insights and keep attendees engaged long after the event has ended. If you had a photographer at the event, you can upload the pictures to a shared drive and make them accessible to attendees. This allows them to find and share their own photos, extending the event’s reach and keeping the buzz alive.
Thank-You Emails and Surveys – Show appreciation by sending personalised thank-you emails with links to surveys. For example, offer discounts on future events to encourage participants to complete the surveys, ensuring you get the feedback needed to improve future events while rewarding attendees for their time.
Conclusion
Using the right interactive strategies can transform your event from ordinary to extraordinary. As an event organiser you want to ensure that everyone has a great time and remembers your event fondly. Keep in mind, your attendees are who you are trying to impress. These approaches will boost participation and build a sense of community. Plus, you want to keep your audience on the edge of their seat, eagerly anticipating your next event.
Weezevent helps you plan your event with its ticketing and registration, access control and marketing and CRM solutions.
