Characteristics of a good host during a virtual event
While hosting an online event, there is a lot of pressure on the host to make the event successful. The characteristics of a good host during a virtual event are very similar to the features of an in-person events’ presenter. A good host is known for being calm, virtual presentations are often kept in a familiar environment, it is no good to be too formal. As a host, you can start with introducing yourself and say a few words about the topic you are going to talk about at the meeting. The introduction can include a story, so your audience will remember you. People remember stories easier than people. If they connect you to a story, they more likely to recall the entire event weeks later. Then, to make the participants more relaxed, try some icebreaker exercises. Use your hands, but not too much. It helps if you gesticulate but if you go overboard, it can have a negative effect on the presentation. Try keeping it at a balance, so your audience pays attention to what you say, not what you do. It goes without doubt, but be prepared. Know the virtual environment you work in, know how to manage the tools it offers. It is not good if the host seems lost and there are long pauses while he/she is trying to find what to do next and how. Engage the audience. Prepare tasks, icebreakers. Do not talk for too long, try breaking the monotony with some tasks to refresh the focus of the attendees. If the topic lets it, break the speech every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the structure of the presentation, this can be changed, of course. Don’t be afraid to go cross-platform. Use Google Docs for example, to give the attendees space to work out the tasks. A good idea is to use an other nice platform to collect feedback. (e.g. Mentimeter) Focus on the topic, do not wander around everything that comes to mind. Make your presentation logical.