The Key to Digital Event Engagement? Virtual Brand Ambassadors (Elevate Connect)

Key Takeaway

• As digital events become the norm (for now), the biggest hurdle is keeping attendees awake and attentive. One viable solution that works: professional virtual brand ambassadors.
• Another byproduct of the pandemic is the streamlining of consumer habits. As more of us adopt online shopping habits, more similarities in how we purchase are popping up.
• Of the many things the pandemic disrupted, the way we market goods and services is one of them. Now that we have learned a few things, there are new considerations to examine before allocating your marketing spend.

Keeping Attendees Engaged is the Biggest Challenge for Virtual Events

Virtual events have experienced an exponential rise in popularity due to mass cancellations. While some brands have been challenged by the switch, many have tapped into creative approaches that keep consumers engaged at home. Yet, brands are finding that, even when pulling out all the stops, in many ways virtual events just can’t stand up to a live event.

The biggest challenge is attendee engagement, according to this Event Manager Blog post. Which is understandable. With all the distractions of home, coupled with the monotony of quarantine, people are less able to focus. Despite this, however, there are ways to boost engagement. The article suggests break-out sessions, which provide much-needed face-to-face connection and networking. Alternatively, virtual brand ambassadors can be effective in boosting attendee participation.

Popeyes and Postmates Create a Chain Reaction Chicken Sandwich Giveaway

2020 has brought with it a series of challenges, and with those has come serious political and cultural conversations. When it comes to the issue of civil rights, many brands are choosing to take a stand. And while it’s important to highlight the work that brands are doing to move society forward, it’s nice to take note of the light-hearted campaigns that allow us to relax a bit.

Recently, Popeyes and Postmates launched a smile-worthy campaign that encouraged diners to order delivery and support the hard-hit restaurant community. The idea was simple. The delivery service randomly selected customers to receive free Popeyes Chicken Sandwich Combo. When the customer redeemed the code, Postmates sent out another, creating a delicious chain reaction.

Nielsen Data Shows How Consumers Around the Globe Have Begun Behaving Alike

Before Covid-19, consumers across the globe had very different spending habits. Generally speaking, brands customized their messaging according to demographics and location. But with many countries implementing stay at home and social distancing policies, a recent study by Nielsen shows that global consumers have much more in common these days.

They found that staying home has changed how people make purchases. Specifically, online purchasing patterns show that more people around the world are open to purchasing fresh produce online. And, as with all the effects of the pandemic, these shopping patterns are predicted to last, even after things go back to normal.

8 Considerations to Make When Deciding How to Spend Your Marketing Dollars

Whether in the midst of a recession or a steadily increasing economy, marketers are always budget-conscious. While adjustments are often made according to market conditions, there are other elements that are top of mind when crafting a budget.

In a recent Adage article, industry leaders shared key considerations when they build their own budgets. These include alignment with brand values, reaching the right audience, and more. Check out the rest here.

Author: Kelly Springs-Kelley

Kelly Springs-Kelley is a marketing veteran who specializes in digital and experiential. When she's not creating compelling content or pondering the future of in-person consumer engagement, Kelly can be found hiking the mountains of Arizona with her 2 kids and 3 dogs.