One of the most valuable functions of virtual events is often the most overlooked: community building. While “virtual” might not be what immediately comes to mind when you think about community building, it can provide a wealth of meaningful, cost-effective opportunities for helping people become and remain engaged on a long-term basis.

As companies large and small look for ways to facilitate strategic growth, virtual events have emerged as a way to foster connections, build community and share information, bringing remote attendees together to discuss, engage, learn and re-energize.

Webster defines a "brand" as "a particular identity or image regarded as an asset." Market research tells us that customers who are emotionally engaged with a brand are: 3x more likely to recommend that brand, 3x more likely to repurchase, Less likely to shop around.

Incentives are about planning, and procuring, and mapping, and booking, and… the list goes on. We've talked about that in the past. But for the aspiring attendees, it's as much about anticipation and motivation as it is rewarding and relaxing.

As a meeting planner, your co-workers most certainly think your gig is glamourous. Hallway conversations tend to center around, "where are you headed next?" "how many stamps in your passport?", or "how was Maui?" They never ask, "hey, how many salespeople hit their goal?", or "looks like you had a great turnout at the conference." And planners know that's what drives success.

Talking about healthy choices is one thing; following through with it is a completely different story. A co-worker of mine said she was recently at a conference that had a wonderful health and wellness speaker.