Speaking in a Hybrid Event

Speaking at a hybrid event presents a unique challenge of keeping both the in-person and virtual audience engaged throughout your presentation — in all honesty, it’s difficult.

Here are techniques to help keep the entire audience engaged at a hybrid event:

1. Harnessing the Power of Questions: From Slides to Verbal Interaction

One of the most effective ways to engage your hybrid audience is by asking a variety of questions throughout your speech. Incorporate questions that encourage both rhetorical reflections and active participation.

By inviting the audience to respond to questions, whether through chat functions or verbal responses, you create an interactive atmosphere that sustains engagement.

2. Balancing In-Person and Virtual Audience Interaction

To maintain a sense of inclusivity and engagement, it is essential to interact with both the in-person and virtual audience throughout your speech. By alternating your focus between the in-person audience and the camera for the virtual audience, you demonstrate that all attendees are valued participants, regardless of their physical presence. This balanced approach fosters a sense of involvement and enhances engagement for both groups.

Ultimately, you want to create a dynamic and interactive atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. There are many more techniques you can incorporate, just remember to make it so that the audience participates — if they want — and that the event is memorable. By fostering interactivity and shared experiences, you enhance the overall engagement and connection among audience members.

Fill out our contact form today to schedule a training session or keynote with Paul for more tips about speaking at hybrid events.