Promote eLearning Events: 5 Questions To Answer
Your next eLearning event is quickly approaching, but there's still room for more on your attendance list. In order to make your function a full-fledged success you need a full house. This can be a daunting task if you've never hosted or promoted an eLearning event in the past. Fortunately, answering these 5 all-important questions will allow you to promote eLearning events by creating an effective eLearning event announcement that builds a virtual buzz.
1. Who Is My Target Audience?
When you visualize your upcoming eLearning event, who is sitting in the seats? Or behind the screen, in the case of online eLearning events? THIS is your target audience. These are the people you want to read your announcement and, ultimately, click on that “sign up now” button. But reaching your target audience is easier said than done…unless you learn more about them. What problems are they facing on a daily basis? What will prompt them to attend your next eLearning event and what do they expect to get from it? What information are they looking for and why do they need it? Conduct surveys, focus groups and questionnaires to research your audience so that you can address their concerns.
You might even consider developing eLearning attendee personas. These profiles include pertinent details about your target audience, such as their traits, backgrounds, and goals. For example, your “ideal” attendee may be Instructional Designers between the ages of 45 and 60. Specifically, those who need to brush up on their tech skills and are in the market for new eLearning authoring tools. Armed with this knowledge, you can promote eLearning events that speak to them on a personal level and address their pain points.
2. WHY Should People Attend The eLearning Event?
Now that you know WHO will be attending your next eLearning event, it’s time to ask WHY. People must take time out of their busy schedules to attend. In some cases, they may even have to pay a fee or cover travel expenses. They are making an investment, and you need to specify what they’ll receive in return. What are the main advantages of attending your next eLearning event? What is going to offer attendees and how is it going to benefit their lives?
Ideally, the benefits should relate to real world goals. If long-term goals are part of the equation, then these must be broken down into more manageable milestones. As an example, specific sub-skills or tasks that attendees need to improve productivity. Be as clear as possible about HOW your next eLearning event is going to bring them one step closer to reaching their objectives.
3. What Is Your Unique Selling Point?
Every eLearning event brings something different to the table, so to speak. However, you have to identify what sets yours apart from the others and make it your main selling point. Include all the important details, benefits, and unique features that entice readers to RSVP. Hold a brainstorming session with your eLearning team and create a list of standout features. These are the highlights of your eLearning event that put you a cut above. For example, notable guest speakers who are experts in their field or top notch tips and tricks they won’t find elsewhere. These features form the basis of your sales pitch, and they are an integral part of your next eLearning event announcement.
4. When Should I Start Promoting My eLearning Event?
This is one of the most important questions, as it lets you know when to set everything in motion. However, there is no “one size fits all” answer, as your timing depends on the nature of your next eLearning event. For example, hosting a seminar or conference that is being held at a physical location requires advance notice. Attendees must book their flight, arrange accommodation, and make room in their schedules. However, a virtual webinar can be marketed just 3 or 4 weeks in advance, as there are no flights or hotel stays involved.
Finding the perfect promotional window is essential. Marketing too far in advance leaves attendees time to forget. Waiting until the last minute can decrease your attendance rates, given that people don’t have time to respond. Also, bear in mind that the review and submission process takes time. For instance, if your next eLearning event does not meet the requirements or contains prohibited material, you’ll need to revise the announcement.
5. What Is Your Idea Of A "Successful" eLearning Event?
Attendees have a goal in mind when they RSVP for the eLearning event. Maybe they want to advance up the corporate ladder or improve a specific skill set. Whatever the case, there is at least one key reason why they reserve a spot. Likewise, your organization should also have clear goals and objectives for hosting the eLearning event. This allows you to track the effectiveness of your eLearning marketing and measure the overall success. So, what is your definition of “success”? Do you have certain attendance rates you’d like to reach? Is there a profit margin you’re striving for? Do you need to sell a specific number of eLearning products or services to make it worthwhile? It’s important to develop criteria beforehand so that you can modify your strategy for future eLearning events. For instance, holding smaller group eLearning events in order to cut costs or provide a more personalized experience.
These 5 questions help you reach the right audience and make them aware of the benefits they'll receive. The secret is crafting a targeted eLearning event announcement that covers all the basics and grabs their attention. They need to know what's in it for them and why this is an opportunity they can't pass up.
Would you like your next eLearning event announcement to be seen by over 500,000 readers a month? eLearning Industry is the largest community of eLearning professionals in the world. Discover how to promote eLearning events with our eLearning event marketing services.
