Are you planning a virtual event and want everything to go smoothly? In that case, you will need assistance developing a script for hosting a virtual event. Hosting a virtual event on Zoom, Cisco Webex, or Teams can be intimidating. A great script will take the pressure off you and boost your confidence in the event’s outcome.
Think of scripts as maps to guide you through an event and point you in the right direction. By planning everything, you won’t have to improvise and stress about what to say or do. As a result, everyone will be on the same page.
Playbook for Making a Script for Hosting a Virtual Event
Here are some tips for developing an excellent script for hosting a virtual event:
1) Develop an Outline
Make an outline before diving into the details. Outlines simplify the writing process by laying everything out in a concise manner. A good outline should include an introduction, essential points, a Q&A session, and a conclusion.
- Introduction. Set expectations for the virtual event and welcome attendees. The introduction should include your name, background, and information for the audience— such as when the recorded meeting will be available. “Housekeeping” items should be included so your audience knows what you’re highlighting and how to interact.
- Essential Points. Express key ideas and crucial points of the virtual event using bullet points. Scripts should contain only vital phrases or concise sentences so presenters can add their personalities. Let the presenters introduce their narrative in their own words. It is not the script’s purpose to predict every event detail but to provide guidelines.
- Q&A session. You should explain how much time is allotted for Q&A and how audience members can participate. Decide whether the Q&A will be after each presentation, a particular section, or the event’s end.
- Conclusion. Your audience should leave your virtual event with memorable ideas, statements, or motivations. Inviting them to take action is one way to do that.
2) Use a Conversational Style
When writing a script, use conversational language to engage your audience. You want the event to feel natural and welcoming. Don’t be afraid to use incomplete sentences or sentence fragments when you write. Use whatever wording, style, and tone fits best to make the script engaging. Keep your points concise and use simpler words. Use “you” and “your” when addressing attendees.
Don’t read the script word for word. Instead, make sure you focus on the script’s purpose, which is to create content that presenters can use and connect the dots to make the virtual event a pleasant experience for all. The script should provide a roadmap for the presenters but allow room for improvisation.
3) Engage the Audience
Attendees always expect to learn something and be engaged. An engaged audience means a successful event that encourages people to come back. Personal stories and experiences can transform a flat script into a fun experience.
A script becomes more memorable if it includes personal stories since people tend to remember them better than generic facts. Consider injecting a story from your own life, which can help you build a stronger connection with the audience.
4) Include All Elements in the Script
Ensure that you include all relevant parts of the virtual event in the script. The more information you include, the more organized your team will be on the day of the event.
Here are elements that quality scripts have:
- File names (list the files in the correct order of presentation)
- Transition points (hand-offs, content changes, etc.)
- Production cues (music, slides, etc.)
- Unspoken cues (a moment of silence for building anticipation, etc.)
- Phonetic spelling (for names or terms that are hard to pronounce)
These elements can vary depending on the type of meeting. For example, a fireside chat will include instructions for camera placement and timing. You will make fewer mistakes if these details are provided. The unexpected cannot be avoided, but its impact can be minimized. Follow the principle that whatever needs to be done should be noted in the script.
Meet Me In The Cloud Can Help
A virtual event script can ensure your event is a success. Consider the above tips as you develop your script. If you still think you need help, Meet Me In The Cloud can assist you in developing an engaging script for your next virtual event and even handle the entire virtual event hosting process. We can ensure that your next event is professional, enjoyable, and designed to help you reach your business objectives. As experts in virtual event production, we deliver white-glove support and design virtual events based on your requirements.
Meet Me In The Cloud can turn your digital collaboration tools into productivity engines. At any point in your collaboration journey, we partner with you to develop scripts for hosting a virtual event and enable you to adopt your preferred technology tools. To get started. To get started, contact our experts today. tel:1-866-221-3221