Live streaming has gained popularity in recent years and has become a powerful tool for businesses and individuals to connect directly with their audiences and create a stronger sense of community. We’ve seen a level of interactivity and engagement that other forms of content cannot match, making it easier and faster to build a connection with viewers through engaging live streams.

Whether you are using live streaming for an event, recurring meetings, or internal communications, here are 5 strategies to keep your live streams engaging:

1. Create a detailed plan. If you don’t know where you’re going, how will you get there? You need a plan. By creating a detailed run of show, you’ll have a cohesive roadmap for a successful live stream. Your run of show should include start times and lengths of content segments, an order of events that builds upon the key messages, speaker info, and other details for flawless execution. Other planning tips include confirming speakers and content in advance. It’s a best practice to schedule a dry run before going live to test the flow and technical items. If this is a regular live stream, stay consistent with your cadence and use previous feedback to continuously improve each time you stream. 

2. Increase production value. Keep your audience engaged by adding multiple camera angles, digital effects, and pre-recorded content to ensure variety. Enhance the viewer’s experience and go the extra mile in quality by using an appealing set or backdrop, professional audio equipment, and lighting. Then, take your visuals a step further with graphics, stingers, music, and various Picture-in-Picture or side-by-side views to give your live stream the polished look your viewers will be wowed by. 

3. Build community through interactivity. Whether you’re launching a new product or hosting an internal town hall, be sure to have the technology to get real-time engagement. Encourage viewers to ask questions and leave comments so you can directly engage and address their concerns during the stream. Incorporate polls and check points along the way, so viewers can provide immediate feedback. (And be sure to respond to their comments and questions!) 

4. Showcase your authenticity. Ditch the word-for-word script and allow for raw, unfiltered moments. This can help humanize your brand and create a deeper connection with your audience, making them feel more invested in your content. Build on this connection by finding what your audience is interested in with Google Analytics, various apps and software, or simply by reviewing the feedback they are giving during the live streams. Use this information to help create a more personalized experience for your audience. 

5. Communicate with the audience regularly. Focus on what’s in it for them in the messaging so they’ll be sure to join live. As the event approaches, share reminders, the agenda, and clear instructions on how to join the live stream. (Pro Tip: consider a FAQ for any technology challenges they may experience.) Then, promotion doesn’t stop just because the live stream is over – continue to engage your audience by sharing recaps, recordings, thanking those who attended live, and repurposing the event content as applicable.

An effective live stream strategy can make all the difference when engaging your audience, and giving them a high-quality, memorable experience that they’ll look forward to being a part of again and again. Live streams have the potential to transform the way your audience connects with your brand, making them a key part of your marketing strategy. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and remote – live streams will continue to play a vital role in bringing people together.

If you need some help with your next live stream or virtual event, please contact us at info@vlinksolutions.com.