Virtual trade shows, conferences, and other events often provide similar offerings to the in-person versions. Attendees gain access to keynote speakers, product information, education opportunities and more, but from the comfort of their home or office.

While you might miss connecting with colleagues and prospects at face-to-face events, virtual events present plenty of opportunities for networking and relationship-building. As events continue to transition online during the pandemic, it helps to know a few tips and tricks for making the most of every opportunity.

Richard Roppa-Roberts, a business and solutions coach, has put together some tips to help attendees maximize networking opportunities at virtual events. We share Roberts’ thoughts in this issue of Promotional Consultant Today.

1. Complete your attendee profile. In addition to adding your name, title and company name, make sure you add any additional information, such as social media profiles. This is a way for you to gain new followers and introduce a bit of your personality, says Roberts. Just as you completely fill out your profile on social media accounts or dating apps, you should also take time to write a great event profile that allows other attendees to learn who you are, what you do and how to reach you.

2. Join group chats. Consider a virtual chat room an alternative to the networking breaks at trade shows and conferences. Pour yourself a drink and hop into the attendee chat or discussion board. You can use these forums as a chance to join targeted conversations on topics you can speak on or you can join as a community member looking to learn from others, Roberts says. And his pro tip: Only use a background or video effect if you know how to turn it off.

3. Commit to actively participating in sessions. Whether you want to hear a keynote presentation or you have signed up for a compelling webinar, give it your full attention. If you settle in with a small lunch and start checking your emails with the presentation in the background, you will likely get sidetracked and miss out on key points. Resist the urge to multitask and focus on live sessions, recommends Roberts. When you do, you will learn more and come away with excellent conversation starters for the event forums.

4. Be social on social media. If you do not have time to commit to an entire virtual event, you can still network via social media. Follow the event hashtag and be sure to comment or reply to trending or popular industry threads, says Roberts.

Participating in virtual events opens the door to countless opportunities. You and your sales reps can connect with clients and network with new people—all from a safe distance amid the pandemic. The key is being active in these virtual events. When you put in the effort by creating an appealing attendee profile, joining online discussions and staying social on Twitter, Facebook and other channels, you will benefit from an engaging virtual experience.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Richard Roppa-Roberts is a business and solutions coach at Quasar Cowboy, a strategic consulting firm.