Hey, I'm Kevin Davidson, and I’m here to share a few cool lessons and tricks from my experience running webinars in the B2B space.

Now, you don’t have to call me the Webinar Whisperer, but I will admit it sounds really cool!

Anyway, let’s dive right in - here are 5 of my personal learnings that helped me find success with webinars.

1. Cut the noise: ensuring a distraction-free experience

Remember, the smallest distractions can derail your webinar's impact. I've been in webinars where background typing sounded like a hailstorm on a tin roof. It's not just annoying; it's a surefire way to lose your audience's attention. Invest in quality microphones and encourage your speakers to find quiet, controlled environments. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how often it's overlooked. A clear, distraction-free audio experience keeps your audience focused on your message, not guessing the background noise.

2. Branding is your best friend

In the sea of webinars out there, your brand's identity is your lighthouse. Early in my career, I underestimated the power of consistent branding. Now, I ensure our logo and brand theme are not just visible but also integrated seamlessly into the presentation. It's not just about recognition; it's about creating a professional and trustworthy atmosphere that resonates with your B2B audience. 

It also helps to identify interesting branding opportunities. For instance, let’s say your speaker doesn't have a camera or their microphone is poor quality. Consider sending him/her a Blue Jeti microphone or a pair of AirPods - they will not only appreciate your gift, but be extra motivated in helping achieve your event goals. It will also create a solid long-term relationship!

3. Privacy concerns and registration rates

The digital age has made privacy a hot topic, and rightly so. I've noticed a direct correlation between simplified registration processes and higher attendance rates. The lesson? Respect your audience's privacy concerns. Minimize the data you request upon registration and be transparent about how you'll use it. This approach not only boosts registrations but also builds trust with your audience from the get-go.

PS: You can use other "creepy" technology to find out more about the registrant instead of asking them to share everything ;) 

4. Engage like never before

If there's one thing I've learned, it's that engagement is everything. The moment you treat your webinar like a one-way street is the moment you lose. Use polls, Q&A sessions, and interactive tools to create a two-way dialogue. And here's a pro tip: leverage these interactive elements to gather real-time feedback and insights, which can be gold for tailoring your content and offerings. Remember, engagement doesn't end when the webinar does. Follow up with attendees, share additional resources, and continue the conversation.

5. Promotion: Beyond the basics

Promoting your webinar can feel like shouting into the void, especially in the crowded B2B space. Early on, I relied too heavily on traditional channels like email blasts. While they're essential, diversifying your promotional strategy is key. Social media, especially LinkedIn for B2B, can be a goldmine for reaching your target audience. Don't overlook the power of employee advocacy; your team's networks can amplify your reach exponentially. And always, always measure the effectiveness of your channels to refine your strategy over time.

And there you have it…

Remember, the goal is not just to host a webinar but to create an engaging, memorable experience that drives real business results. 

Here's to your success in the webinar world!