How to Get the Most Out of Virtual Events

Now is one of the best times to grow your knowledge as a travel advisor, whether it's through expanding destination knowledge or making new contacts within the industry.

Virtual events have some of the same challenges as face-to-face meetings but also some new types of hurdles such as unexpected distractions.

Here are some tips to make the most of these online interactions.

One of the things that many have learned working from home is that hours and days tend to blend together. Since you don't have to leave the house to attend a virtual event, it's even harder to remember to go.

Avoid missing out by adding events that you have signed up for to your office calendar and setting notifications to remind you in advance.

Many virtual events provide a variety of opportunities for attendees to engage with companies and suppliers.

Take a look at what is available at the event and make a schedule to stick to to make the most of your time.

Obviously, attending a virtual event from home is not the same as going to one in person. Kids and spouses and work is now all in the same place for many and it's hard to avoid distractions.

However, when attending an event or a class, block out time on your calendar, turn off the TV and set your phone and text applications to "do not disturb." If possible, set your Out of Office on your email to make sure your full attention is on your learning opportunity.

One of the caveats of virtual events can sometimes be technology. While advances in this department have made it possible for these types of interactions, it can also be the greatest downfall.

Make sure your Internet is up and running and that you are connected before the event begins.

If you are concerned, you can run a speed test to check your bandwidth and connection.

Just like at a face-to-face event, you don't want to just turn up at a virtual expo or meeting unprepared. Look at what is available to you, make (and keep) appointments that are available, download relevant materials in advance and try to engage with other attendees and suppliers.

If you are attending a webinar or listening to a keynote speaker, take notes. It's a lot harder to take notes on your computer when you are viewing a presentation on your screen. Avoid clicking back and forth between notepad and the event platform by having a notepad and a pen handy.

Want to stand out in a virtual crowd? Engage. Take advantage of chat sessions and question-and-answer sessions to develop a connection with suppliers and colleagues at the event similar to what you would experience in real life.

One advantage of a virtual event is not lugging around heavy conference materials around but don't leave the virtual materials behind.

Many companies and suppliers will provide information that can be downloaded and read through at your leisure.

The Leisure, Destination & Cruise Expo takes place on July 15-16, 2020.

The Weddings & Honeymoons Expo takes place on September 23-24, 2020.

The Culinary Travel & Tours Expo takes place on October 28-29, 2020.

More events are also on-demand.