Zoom Fatigue

Let’s be honest: Virtual events have gotten a bad rap. The same old talking heads on Zoom, dry slide decks, awkward silences…it’s no wonder people tune out (or worse, don’t show up at all).  

But here’s the good news: Virtual events don’t have to be boring. In fact, with a little creativity, energy, and thoughtful planning, your virtual marketing events can become can’t-miss experiences that leave your audience buzzing and your brand top of mind.  

Ready to level up your next virtual event? Let’s get this Zoom party started! 

1. Start with Energy: Set the Vibe from the First Click  

First impressions matter even virtually. Kick things off with upbeat music, a fun visual countdown, or a quick interactive poll to break the ice. Don’t just start talking—start engaging. Think host energy that feels more like a live show than a conference call.  

Pro Tip: Hire an engaging host or emcee to keep the flow high-energy and interactive throughout.  

2. Add a Sensory Experience with Event Kits  

Want people to actually feel something from behind a screen? Send a curated event kit before the event. Think cocktail kits, gourmet snacks, coffee samplers, or even a mini-DIY activity that ties into your brand. When attendees have something tangible in front of them, it instantly elevates the experience.  

Bonus: Personalize the kits—people love seeing their name on something special.  

3. Gamify It—Because Who Doesn’t Love a Little Competition?  

Keep your audience on their toes with games, trivia, scavenger hunts, or live polls. Add prizes or giveaways to make it exciting. The more interactive, the more people lean in rather than zone out.  

 Bonus: Ideas to Spice Up Your Meetings and Virtual Events:  

• Live quiz with leaderboard  

• Digital bingo during the event  

• Virtual spin-the-wheel prize drawings  

4. Bring in a Surprise Guest or Experience  

Surprise and delight your audience with a guest they didn’t expect. A celebrity cameo, a live mixologist, a mini concert, or even a magician (yes, virtual magic is a thing!) adds an unexpected twist that keeps attendees talking long after the event ends.  Unexpected = unforgettable.  

5. Keep It Short, Sweet, and Visually Stunning  

No one wants to sit through a 90-minute monologue. Break your content into short, engaging segments with slick visuals, transitions, and multimedia. Keep slides clean, use motion graphics, and make your storytelling punchy.  Treat it more like a Netflix episode than a PowerPoint presentation.  

6. Create Moments for Connection  

Don’t underestimate the power of small group breakouts, live Q&As, or networking lounges. People come to events to connect, not just consume. Create intentional moments for conversation and make it easy for attendees to interact with each other—and with your brand.  

7. Follow Up with a Bang  

After the event, keep the momentum going with a follow-up that feels just as thoughtful as the event itself. Recap video, post-event thank-you gift, curated content recap, or even a highlight reel. This shows you value their time—and keeps your brand top of mind.  

Ultimately, Virtual Does Not Have to Mean Boring  

When done right, virtual events can be just as powerful (and sometimes even more impactful) than in-person gatherings. It’s all about creating an experience—one that’s interactive, personal, and full of moments that spark connection and joy.  

So go ahead. Ditch the dull. Bring the energy. Get creative. And make your next virtual event the one people rave about, share screenshots of, and actually remember.  

Your audience is ready for something different. Now it’s time to deliver it.  Contact us for more ideas and help coordinating your next live or virtual event.