Webinars have emerged as one of the most powerful tools that associations across all verticals are using to connect with online audiences. In fact, a recent benchmark industry study which analyzed over 9,000 webinars shows that an overwhelming 80 percent of associations are now using webinars for marketing needs on a regular basis.
The fact is, however, that while the number of associations using webinars to connect with online audiences is skyrocketing, others are struggling to generate high levels of engagement and a strong return on investment. So if your association is having this problem, rest assured you’re not alone.
Fortunately, there are some easy steps that you can take to achieve better results.
First and foremost, it’s critical that you are using video to enhance your webinars. Video is one of the most popular webinar trends today, as overall usage has increased from 9 percent to 16.5 percent over the last two years, according to the aforementioned study. Video ensures that your webinar is interactive and personal and keeps audience members focused—especially when you offer a live feed.
It is also important to be selective about when you host your webinars. After all, you want to make sure your presentation is jam-packed with people who have your undivided attention. Therefore, you’ll want to avoid hosting webinars early or later in the week, as people are often out of office travelling or taking long weekends. Research from the above report shows that Wednesday and Thursday webinars generate the highest attendance rates. What’s more, the best time to hold live webinars is 2 p.m. EST.
How long your webinars should last? The study recommends that you aim for about 56 minutes. Just make sure that you pack your webinar full of valuable multimedia and useful information that will keep your attendees’ attention from start to finish.
Follow these tips and your association is bound to increase engagement and get better results from your webinars. And be sure to look for Onstream Media at the upcoming ASAE Annual Meeting taking place August 8 in Detroit where the team will be on hand to offer more tips. Onstream will also be showing off its latest solution, a free service that allows businesses to host professional webinars with no limitations other than the maximum number of participants.
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