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Tips & Tools for Attending Virtual Events

1. Schedule Out Your Time 

Typically with events we have to plan out our travel, but with a virtual event the most travel we have to do is from our living room/kitchen to our computer. This can lead to us missing an event or conference due to getting caught up in other tasks or projects. In order to keep this from happening, make sure you mark the event in your calendar as soon as you sign up for it. Also, set reminders for the day before and even the hours before the event. Find the reminders and scheduling habits that work best for you and use them to your advantage. 

2. Prioritize your Time  

If you are attending a virtual conference where there are multiple events it is important to plan ahead and identify which sessions are most important for you to attend. Most times each session will have a different link with which you will access them from, so it is important to prioritize which sessions you would like to attend and then compile the links for those sessions in one place, so it is easy to access them. Pro Tip: Save each session to your online calendar and place the link in the description. This way when your calendar reminds you of the session, the link will pop up and you can access it straight from there. 

3. Figure Out The Software 

Not all events will use the same conference/event virtual software. Some common platforms that are used are Zoom and Webex. There are additional platforms that a conference/event can use, but the benefit to attendees is that they tend to have similar functions and set ups. Another benefit is that events want their attendees to have the best experience possible. Many events will set up an info/help page or an FAQ page that specifically address the software they will be using and what you as an attendee need to utilize it. Take advantage of this information ahead of time and use it set up your virtual space. 

4. Set Up Your Physical Space 

Also, set up your physical space. If you have the ability to set up in a quiet, comfortable space, that protects you from potential distractions or interruptions it allows you the best opportunity to engage with and learn from the session/event. Also make sure you have a strong, secure wifi network before the event/session starts. Last, double check that your video and microphone are working. Depending on the type of event you are attending, you may not need to use your video or your mic, but it is always helpful to prepare for all possible options. 

5. Engage and Learn 

In order to get the best experience out of the event you are attending you have to be engaged. Ask questions of the speakers, engage in breakout discussion sections, provide resources to others attending. Engagement looks different for everyone, so make sure to engage in the best way possible for your learning. Most events will inform you in the beginning how you will be able to ask questions or engage in discussion. Depending on the size of the event, you may only be able to post questions in the chat box, but for smaller events you might have the ability to turn on your mic and camera and engage in face-to-face discussion. 

 

Also, ask in the beginning if the session is going to be available as a recording after or if they are going to provide the slides being used in the session. This tells you how much of your time you need to dedicate to keeping notes during the session. Last, make sure to network with both presenters and attendees. You can do this through connecting on social media (i.e. Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram) and engaging in discussion both in the session or through conference discussion forums. 

6. Additional Resources 

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