Now that the world has more or less entered the virtual world, hosting workshops and training sessions virtually has become more prominent than ever. Apart from knowledge sharing, the intent behind hosting online workshops is to boost team bonding and keep everyone involved in the team on the same page when it comes to knowledge and information sharing. Online workshops are a great way to do so. But, what are online workshops, and how can you host one?
We know several questions are going on in your mind. But, like always, we at Mixhub, have got you covered this time also. In this guide, we will take you through all the elements and factors of an online workshop. We assure you that by the end of this blog, you will have all the information you need about online workshops.
Meaning of Online Workshop
One can define an online workshop as a learning experience taught using a video conferencing platform. One can use several elements such as videos, pictures, and graphics to make it more engaging. While online training sessions focus on incorporating knowledge among the participants, the intent behind hosting online workshops is to carry out practical activities, helping them learn new things more practically and quickly.
In simple terms, one can differentiate online workshops and training sessions as training sessions are where you discuss things, and workshops are where you get things done or implement the learnings with practical knowledge.
Generally, an online workshop lasts between two to three hours, and the format of a workshop is generally knowledge sharing and productivity.
In a workshop, one or two more professionals share knowledge and expertise on a subject they have mastered.
Some Common Advantages of Online Workshops
The most common and significant advantages of online workshops are:
1. Flexible:
One needs to keep themselves updated with the latest knowledge if they want to make it to the top. But, a hectic lifestyle doesn’t allow us to enroll in some physical workshops and dedicate enough time to learning something new. In this case, online workshops come to our rescue. Being hosted online, online workshops provide the participants with the flexibility to attend the workshop from their homes. All you need is an efficient device and a stable internet connection.
2. Mobile:
Online workshops don’t bind you to one particular place, and this makes them so popular. Now that online workshop platforms are so efficient, they are multi-device accessible and hence, allow the participants to join the workshop from the device of their choice. So, no matter where they are, the participants can join the workshop at their convenience.
3. Economical:
Another advantage of hosting online workshops is they fall easily on your pockets. Also, one can utilize the material provided in several ways. For example, the participants get downloadable certificates that they can share on social media. Also, the videos and ebooks one gets permanently saved in their device. So, it depends on the participants if they want to print the material or utilize them digitally.
4. 24/7 Support:
With virtual events and workshops, distance has completely vanished between two parties. It also means that the participants can reach out to the professionals anytime, irrespective of their location. It helps them get their queries answered instantly.
5. Immersive:
Another notable advantage of hosting online workshops is that they are more immersive. The organizers can add elements according to their choice in the workshop. They can add pictures, videos, graphics, GIFs, etc., and make the entire experience of the attendees more valuable and make their learning faster.
Types of Online Workshops:
Here are some of the most popular types of online workshops.
1. Webinars:
Webinars are one of the most popular kinds of online workshops. In a webinar, the speaker delivers the content and engages with the audience through tools such as live chat, live comment, Q&A, etc. Webinars are easier to host than their physical counterparts, seminars, as they allow various speakers to interact with the audience in a lecture. To host a webinar, you do not need to put in extra effort and require a simple online workshop platform.
2. Q&A Sessions:
Another most versatile type of online workshop, Q&A sessions serve several purposes at the same time. The best thing about these sessions is that you can host them with any other kind of workshop. Q&A sessions help you achieve several goals; they help you know something better and act as great icebreakers.
3. Brainstorming Sessions:
Next on the list, we have brainstorming sessions. These kinds of sessions help you get the creative juices flowing among the members of a team. Features of an online workshop platform such as whiteboard and breakout sessions would help you in hosting the online breakout sessions effectively.
4. Collaborative Sessions:
Next, we have collaborative sessions on the list. The collaborative sessions resemble breakout sessions in several ways. However, the only difference is collaborative sessions can take place at any stage of planning. One of the most prominent things about them is they work for all kinds of sectors. So, if it is an educational training or employee training session, collaborative sessions will add to the value of the workshop.
Important Considerations to Host Online Workshops:
If you plan to host an online workshop, you need to have a systematic and effective plan. If you also wish to create an online workshop but don’t know how to, don’t worry. Here, we have compiled a list of all the vital factors you need to consider to set up an online workshop.
1. Well-Planned Content:
The first and most important requirement to host a successful online workshop is well-planned content. The content you will deliver to your attendees is the key parameter that will define the success of your workshop. By planning the content well, we mean the speakers who will address the attendees, the duration of their sessions, and other details. Not only this, while planning your content, make sure it is logical and makes sense to the audience.
2. Subject:
While not many pay attention to it, the subject of your workshop also plays a significant role in the success of your workshop. Hence, to begin with, decide if you are aiming the workshop toward beginners or advanced learners. It will also make things a lot easier for the participants. So, while choosing the subject, make sure it makes sense to the audience, is compelling, and is out of the box.
3. Expertise in the Workshop Subject:
The next thing you should consider while planning your workshop is to have an expert who knows the subject inside and out. If you know the subject, ensure you learn more about it and read case studies and stories related to the topic. Also, you should consult a professional to enrich the overall experience of the attendees.
4. Audience:
The next and one of the most significant steps you need to take is to define the audience for your virtual conference. You need to be clear about what audience group you are targeting with your online workshop. Defining the niche will help you in creating content for the audience and planning the workshop seamlessly.
5. Objective Behind Hosting Workshop:
Why are you conducting this workshop? Do you wish to reach out to more audiences? Or is the intent behind hosting the online workshop to set your authority in the market? Whatever the objective is, make sure it is clear. It will make things easier for you and help you analyze your event’s success.
6. Participation Fee and Registration:
With all the other elements, it is important to define if you want to charge the audience or keep the registrations free. Well, it all depends on the kind of experience you wish to provide to the participants. If your intent behind hosting the workshop is to expand your brand reach, you should keep the registration free. But, if you are planning to deliver exclusive event experiences, charge the participants.
7. Promotions:
We are firm believers in the power of imagination. No matter how well-planned and executed your workshop is, it is the promotion of your workshop that will drive your results. To ensure more people know about your conference, focus on promoting the workshop. Also, while doing this, check out the social media platforms used by the majority of your target audience. Once done, prepare your promotional strategies accordingly.
8. An Expert Platform:
Last but definitely not least, consider an online training platform to host your online workshop in the best possible way. While being on your hunt for the online professional platform, make sure you select a platform that is safe, multi-format compatible, economical, and is preferred by the majority of organizers.
There is no doubt that hosting online workshops and training sessions provide several benefits and advantages. Though as an organizer, you have the liberty to choose the format of your choice, we would recommend you try your hands-on online workshops and see for yourself how they are different from the physical workshops.
For that, all you have to do is get yourself an online professional platform such as Mixhub and let us handle the rest of the things for you.
