Susan Friedmann, The Tradeshow Coach, wrote an article called 3 Ways to Have Virtual Events Work with Physical Events. Here are the 3 ways:

1. Virtual events can supplement physical events. Host a virtual event in between your physical events so that it’s offered more frequently.
2. They can complement physical events. Host your virtual event first, then drive those attendees to your physical event.
3. Or, virtual events can replace physical events. Instead of doing a trade show in a big room, do it entirely online.

I love how this article is written because it’s simple, orderly and to the point. And while I like the how Susan explains the 3 ways, the supplement and complement could actually be rolled into one point. Any virtual held to try and drive people to your physical event is both complementary and supplementary.

Preview calls, monthly expert webinar interviews, whatever you want to call them, these virtual events do complement and supplement the physical event (should you even choose to host it).

I am pleased that for someone who has made her living off of physical events, Susan is very enthusiastic about virtual events, even offering suggestions on how to get started. Most who hear about virtual anything get nervous and immediately speak of the downfalls. Susan does a good job outlining why virtual events work for keynote speakers and exhibitors.