Thanks to new technology, the world of events is becoming more and more exciting and accessible. In the past, many presentations and occasions would go unseen by everyone except those who were physically there. Now, mobile devices and apps like Periscope make it possible to live stream any event to as many people as you want! However, Periscope is a relatively recent app, and not everyone has discovered it yet or gotten used to using it. Here are some of the basics of this tool and how it can benefit your event:
How Does It Work?
Periscope is an app that allows you to record something on your mobile device and simultaneously broadcast it to whomever you designate. You can choose to allow the public at large to view it, or restrict it to specific people. Once you begin to broadcast, an automatic notification will be sent to your followers, making it more likely that they will tune in. You can also tap the bird icon on your device to automatically send a link to Twitter when you start the live stream. Once it's over, you can even make the video available for replay, allowing people who could not watch a chance to see your presentation.
With the updated version of the app, you can actually choose portrait or landscape shots, depending on which would be most beneficial and include more of the action.
What Can I Live Broadcast?
Anything, really! While most people will imagine live streaming the types of events that involve a single speaker at a podium, there are many other formats and presentations that Periscope can be utilized for. For instance, if you can grab an exclusive interview with a speaker after a function, this could add some quality insight and provide valuable content for your audience. Also, you don't have to limit yourself to one person per shot; roundtable discussions, Q&A sessions, and even product demos at expositions can all be streamed to your viewers for a more complete picture of the action. Just make sure to choose your location wisely when recording groups.
Do I Need to Do Anything Special?
That depends on what you are trying to accomplish. For instance, if you are going to be promoting a business seminar, the more professional you look, the better. In such a case, you will probably want to invest in a stand for your device so that it doesn't shake during the presentation. In addition, ensure that you have a clear view of the speaker/s, and are close enough to ensure good sound quality. It's also probably a good idea to let as many people as possible know about your event ahead of time. This way, you can get their information and ensure that they are notified at the start of things. Designate someone on your team to live Tweet about the event and keep everyone up-to-date on what's being discussed, as well as summarize for newcomers.
What Are the Advantages for Event Planners?
One of the biggest benefits of using Periscope is the instant exposure you get. With the app, you are not only increasing the number of people who can see your event, but also the number of people who can participate. On Periscope, you can decide who gets to comment on your presentation: everyone or only followers. No matter which makes sense for you, it still means that there is an active, real-time discussion about your particular event. And since the goal of almost any seminar or speech is to inform and get people thinking and talking about your subject, you should be encouraging respectful commentary. This will also put you in touch with more potential clients or networking contacts, which could get you the audience you need to increase the impact of your message, company or brand.
What Are the Advantages for Followers?
Viewers can benefit from Periscope, too. Among other things, the simple fact that they get to see a presentation as it is being given will make it more meaningful. There's nothing quite like experiencing things firsthand and, with Periscope, your large online audience will be able to feel as though they are really in the room with the presenter. In addition, viewers will be able to get a lot of networking opportunities with likeminded people who are interested in the same subject matter.
Planning an event involves a lot of things: choosing a venue, finding a speaker (or several), arranging for any catering, marketing to the right people, etc. Everything that you can do to get the word out and make the event more accessible is going to help. Periscope is a great way to ensure that people can not only see your presentation, but connect with the coordinators and other audience members.
Have you ever used Periscope? What did you think?
