LinkedIn is one of the world’s most popular platforms for job seekers and recruiters. The platform empowers its nearly 800 million users to forge professional connections. This year, LinkedIn plans to launch its Audio Events feature to give creators more opportunities to network and spread the word about their brands.
There is no question that the virtual events market is exploding. Forecasters expect the industry to be valued at just over $138 billion by 2030. Accessibility is the main draw. Users can participate in any event regardless of their location. LinkedIn wants to tap into the market, giving people one more choice – and it might appeal to camera-shy creators and people-on-the-go.
Why Use LinkedIn Audio Events?
Creators should want an active audience that truly cares about the presentation. Catering to their audience’s preferences can open up flexible and welcoming virtual environments that increase exposure and interactivity. Audio alternatives are growing more useful in these regards. They also benefit event attendees.
Convenience
LinkedIn Audio Events provides convenience for busy participants who can not watch visual content but can easily listen. They might be at work, driving, or tending to personal matters. With Audio Events, anyone can tune in and listen wherever they are. They do not have to dedicate a block of time solely to watching a presentation.
Less awkward than video events
Virtual events that require attendees to be on-camera can be awkward affairs. They might be less inclined to participate or even attend the event in the first place. Plus, there are the uneasy pauses after the speaker asks a question – pauses that can go on for too long.
Not every speaker can pick up on non-verbal cues. Not every attendee wants to actively take part in a discussion. LinkedIn Audio Events can help keep creators and participants within their comfort zones by reducing the demand of both parties.
Larger room for growth
Offering audio-only events could increase attendance, which could bode well for paid events. With paid ticketing options possible in the future, LinkedIn Audio Events can provide a boost that other platforms can not. A relaxed attendance option could drive engagement and revenue.
More relaxed
Video events require people to be “on.” This can be stressful for the shy types. It can be tiring for people who do not mind the medium but are constantly subjected to video event after event. Some people get burned out. When this happens, engagement and attendance can take a turn for the worst.
On the presenter’s side of things, event hosts have to consider how they and their environments look. Appearances are important in a visual medium. Presenters who appear more professional can seem more knowledgeable and trusted than someone who just rolled out of bed.
LinkedIn Audio Events can help reduce that burnout and make people excited for virtual events again. Attendance can rise and maintain steady numbers. Presenters can focus on their content rather than their looks.
Easier to produce
Creating audio events requires less work than video events. Creators do not have to prepare a slide deck or any visuals. They can use the time they save to hone their material, focus on marketing, or catch their breath. LinkedIn Audio Events can reduce creators’ workloads while giving them more opportunities to do what they need and want to do. They can present an awesome event if they are more relaxed and unencumbered by the pressures of video.
What LinkedIn Audio Events Offer Creators
If you are a creator who prefers the audio format to engage and inspire your audience, then LinkedIn Audio Events might be the next feature for you.
Although LinkedIn Audio Events are not yet available to the public, users can look forward to:
- Hosting live Q&A/AMAs.
- Interviewing experts in their field or any interesting guests.
- Discussing products, services, and ideas.
- Conversing with the audience.
LinkedIn has made all of these functions easy to use, further broadening the possible user base.
Creating a LinkedIn Audio Event
According to beta testers, setting up a LinkedIn Audio Event takes only four steps:
- Go to the “Create an event” page.
- Click the “Event format” drop-down bar and select “LinkedIn Audio event.”
- Complete all of the required fields. Information includes the event name, timezone, start and end dates, start and end times, description, and names of speakers.
- Click “Post.” The event will be published on LinkedIn as a regular event so people can interact with it as usual.
Promoting a LinkedIn Audio Event
You can send event invites to your network after you set your event up. Click “Invite Connections” on your Event page. You can also share your event on your channels and via LinkedIn messaging.
Running a LinkedIn Audio Event
Going live requires a click of the “Join” button and then one more click on the “Go live” button.
People can participate by “raising their hands.” Clicking on the notification under the event name brings up a list of people you can let speak. You can also mute people by clicking the person’s profile picture and selecting “Mute.”
Ending the event is as simple as clicking “End.”
Tips to Help You Prepare Your Audio Event
Although LinkedIn Audio Events is not widely available at the time of this writing, it might be wise to keep some pointers in mind to help you run a smooth event:
- Schedule your event in advance: Give yourself up to 4 weeks to promote your event anywhere you can. Your options are not limited to LinkedIn. Share your event information on social media.
- Aim for a 15-minute event: You want to give attendees enough time to join as well as enough content to reward their time and participation. Creating value might inspire them to join your following events.
- Write a detailed event description: Let people know what they can expect from start to finish. List all of the topics and guests. The more information you provide, the better you can entice people to sign up for your event.
- Invite your friends: To increase numbers and engagement, invite people you trust who can ask questions and offer feedback.
- Re-share the event just before the start time: Remind your LinkedIn and social media connections that your event is about to start. A few hours’ notices can suffice.
- Record your event: Currently, LinkedIn Audio Events can not be recorded via the platform. Use a third-party option to record your event so you can repurpose your content any way you choose.
Since it hasn’t been released yet, LinkedIn Audio Events will also provide a great opportunity to differentiate your brand. In time, new functions can increase participation, making the feature invaluable for connecting virtually.
