In a recent webinar about the future of events, William Sell said something powerful that seemed perfect for Word Nerd Wednesday.
While talking about the difference between virtual and in-person events, he noted that the word “virtual” is most often used to describe things that are aren’t real. Virtual reality is a simulation, as is virtual try-on. Virtual pets are adorable but just pretend.
Virtual events, on the other hand, are 100% real.
The attendees are real. The insights and conversations are real. The value is real. A screen may not be the same as a room, but different doesn’t necessarily mean less. I put just as much effort into keynotes I give online – probably more – because the end goal is still the same – deliver maximum value in the most engaging way possible. Every good speaker I know would say the same.
For that reason I’ve stopped calling workshops and conferences “virtual.” Instead I refer to in-person, online, and hybrid events, all of which are opportunities for a shared experience.
