So, we go virtual, and the graphics files still missed the deadline. We go virtual and changes still happen at the last minute. We go virtual and the person you would most need to rehearse can’t or doesn’t have enough time to dedicate to it.
Rehearsal is even more important for virtual events. In the virtual world, we need to do so much more with the presenters. We should do it days in advance of the event. Getting six presenters at a virtual meeting at the same time can be a challenge. So, get on those people’s schedules early as possible. Additionally, the studio services will need to be booked as well.
At a live event, all the presentation equipment is the same for all the presenters. When we are in a virtual event, all the presenters need to be checked separately. How do they sound, how do they look, what’s their backroom look like? We can adjust the sound. We can adjust lights. We can send them a presenter kit, which has extra lights and an extra microphone.
How are they connected to the internet? Is it hardwired or is it on wireless? Are they in the same location they will be for the event? This is extremely important, because if they are in a different location, we’ll need to do all of what we just did in the rehearsal all over again, right before the event, and it creates all kinds of stress. They need to be comfortable with the technology they haven’t used.
Presentation control over the internet, either by internet clicker or share, or even just saying next slide, we can work with all that, but they need to know what to expect. Getting all the presenters for an interactive presentation at the same time is extremely important so that they can talk to each other and be comfortable. We don’t just have to put the moderator up on stage with five panelists and say talk.
Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Practice the six P’s. If you don’t know what the six P’s are, send me an email fwhite@avfx.com.
