A webinar is basically a web conference with audio,  some specific type of web conference if you prefer.  Because of the global crisis it is the best way to communicate with the world without spending all the money in travel expenses, plus is a great way to launch new products, carry out trainings and conduct working meetings online.

When the meeting participants are spread around the country (or the world) and are required to share data, documents or screen, a webinar is an satisfactory and cut-cost solution.

Table of Contents

• Choosing a Video Conferencing Service
• Set Up a Practice Webinar
• Don’t Simply Reuse Classroom Material
• Moderators – Arrive Early
• Stick to Your Timetable
• Review Your Webinar
• Take Advantage of GoToMeeting Free Trial Offer

Choosing a Video Conferencing Service

When determining on a webinar service, it’s extremely important to ensure that the software you use to share documents is secure. Your web conferencing provider can help you select the right plan for you and will ensure that your webinar runs as smooth as possible.

Other options that will help make your webinar a success include:

» Early registration;
» Online room setup;
» Audience survey;
» Participation meter;
» Webinar follow-up;

GoToMeeting offers all the services above and also includes an Editor that can be used to cut out distracting noises or pauses in the virtual presentation, add in bookmarks to specific areas, or slice the presentation into a few smaller presentations.

Set Up a Practice Webinar

Nothing is more irritating than finding out technical issues during an online presentation The best way to avoid it is to set up a practice webinar with some colleagues in different locations prior to your primary event.

Besides working out any glitches, you’ll be more comfortable with the use of the software when the actual event happens.

When an error occurs during the test, write it down the issue to discuss with technical support later if necessary.

Don’t Simply Reuse Classroom Material

Even though webinar technology is great in many ways, never expect to cover the corresponding amount of material in an one-hour webinar training session as you would in an one-hour classroom session.

Plan a different approach to incorporate less content than in a classroom, particularly if you don’t have much experience with online conferencing.

Moderators – Arrive Early

Webinar moderators have to make sure to enter the online meeting room earlier than the rest of the participants. It is respectful to welcome participants as they arrive.

Doing that you will be ready to start the online meeting on time. It will also give you a final opportunity to make sure the webinar is setup correctly.

Even though you know how to use the software, you should anticipate a few questions from the participants about how to access the webinar.

If the participants have to install software plugins to gain access, make sure you direct them to the right place where they can download it. And if there are specific browser requirements, make sure to familiar with them.

Stick to Your Timetable

Whether your webinar participants are customers, employees, partners, or another group of people, make an effort to respect their time. Create a timetable and stick to it as much as possible.

As the moderator, it is your responsibility to keep the discussion on the topic specified earlier if the meeting go to another direction.

Review Your Webinar

Many webinar softwares, including GoToMeeting, offer the option to archive your presentation to be viewed later. If you are not familiar with webinars, be sure to watch your own event afterward.

You must know what the audience experienced, that might have been different than what you thought you were presenting. This strategy will be a big deal in learning what you need to improve on in the future webinars.

Take Advantage of GoToMeeting Free Trial Offer

GoToMeeting Web Conferencing offers a 30 days risk-free trial, as well as demos to help you get started.

Hold online meetings, webinars, and conferences with GoToMeeting and try all its features,  plus learn how smoothly and professionally your online presentations can be done.

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• June 11, 2009 -- Adopt Web Conferencing to your Business (1)
• April 7, 2009 -- What is Web Conferencing? (0)
• January 9, 2010 -- Tips on Setting Up Online Meetings (0)
• January 2, 2010 -- Business Meetings Online – Catch the Wave of the Future (0)
• December 25, 2009 -- Web Conferencing Can Save Your Small Business Big Dollars (0)