Today consumers are more interested in the storytelling style of brand marketing. And live blogs provide endless opportunities for organizations to put forward their offers innovatively. Brands can leverage live blogging to boost audience engagement, generate new leads, and higher revenue.
Reach out to the industry experts for assistance. They may also guide you in finding the resources for general info related to the topic. Visit https://viafoura.com/blog/how-to-host-a-virtual-conference/ to learn more about hosting a virtual event.
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Why do brands choose Live blogging?
Live blogging is a proven method to connect with the target audience and facilitate real-time updates on a specific event or subject using video, audio, images, and text. It might feature a single article or page automatically updated with new content. Users need not refresh the page to access the latest info.
Liveblogging allows the attendees to access a virtual event fitting their interests. The speakers (industry experts) invited to the event share their experiences and knowledge through presentations or time-bound sessions. Besides, it’s also an excellent marketing solution that helps brands grow their online following by connecting with the target audience.
How to leverage live blogging?
Set a successful live blog that helps the organization win the game and achieve its mission. Listed below are vital pointers that’ll help you succeed at live blogging and ensure high ROI on your virtual event. Here you go.
1. Plan and strategize your live blog coverage
Take your time and think about the blogging strategy to help you achieve your targets. First, determine the topics and materials needed to create a successful virtual event. You won’t have any opportunity to prepare engaging content in real-time during the event. Hence, it’s essential to prepare relevant material in advance to have enough content to keep the attendees engaged throughout the event.
2. Research and select the speakers and schedule for the event
Once you have finalized the plan, you must:
- Prepare a list of the speakers that can add value to the event.
- Divide up the time between speakers carefully. If you have a team, make sure all the members get equal opportunity to put their views and thoughts into the event.
- Keep in mind that live blogging is an exhausting affair, so schedule time for breaks as well.
- Post speakers’ bio before the event to help your audience learn about their background and better understand the event’s agenda.
Timing is the next important thing in live blogs. Publish the content close to the real-time event stream. Plus, ensure a user-friendly interface for your live blog to publish posts seamlessly.
3. Choose what software and device will work best for live coverage
The device and software used for the event play a significant role in its success. The choice of device depends mainly on the size, structure, type, and environment of the event you’ll be covering in the live blog. Don’t forget to test and charge your device(s) to avoid technical difficulties during the virtual event.
For example, if you plan to cover a motorcycle show (where you need to click pictures of the vehicle) in your live blogging, then a smartphone will turn out to be an ideal option. However, you can switch the device anytime if needed.
Therefore, make sure you are confident about the device you are using for the event, whether you pick a smartphone, laptop, or tablet. You may also mix and match the different devices.
4. Set up your article’s framework beforehand
Once you are done with the live blogging, the next step would be to transcribe, edit, and publish the article quickly. For this reason, it’s crucial to develop an article framework beforehand. It should fit the subject and goal of the event
- Visit the event website to collect relevant info for your article, such as the venue where the event will be conducted, dates and times of the sessions, speaker links, etc.
- Do some research and learn about the speakers to determine what you can expect during the live virtual event.
- Find interesting links to add to your article.
- Check the social media handles of the speakers and follow them.
- Go through their books, websites, interviews, articles, and videos to collect in-depth details about their work.
5. Spread the word about the event among your target audience beforehand
Promote your virtual event and provide all the necessary info about live coverage before the event starts. Make sure to mention the link, time, and date of your live blog. Using a countdown in a promotional article is one of the best ways to keep your audience excited about the event. At 00:00, the individuals will be automatically directed to the live blog, probably increasing the event’s success rate.
6. Use every available opportunity in live blogging to generate leads
Keep your ultimate mission in mind during live blogging. Virtual events are a means to connect and engage with your potential audience. You can generate leads easily during live streaming if you use the opportunity smartly.
- Insert links to ads, CTAs, QR Codes, and other content to increase your customer count. Ensure that the links show up right when there is a maximum count of attendees in the event.
- Use words like “value” and “best interest” often in your content. It will make the potential customers more interested and encouraged to be a part of your brand/organization.
7. Reconnect with the audience after the event ends
Summarize the key takeaways and overall experience in the form of an article. Link the live blog session’s recording in the post. It will add value to your brand and website. In addition, send follow-up mail, including a call-to-action, link to the article, a subscription offer, a list of relevant articles, and upcoming live blogs. This extra effort will strengthen your brand’s value among the audience.
Endnote
There are endless ways of deploying live blogs. Use the tips listed above for live blogging for your next event. At the same time, don’t shy from experimenting with the new methods and live blogging tools. Gauge your live blog’s impact on the audience, measure your performance and improve your process accordingly over time.
