Virtual events have boomed since 2020, transforming conferences, workshops, and classes onto digital platforms. This pivot has created new opportunities for tech-savvy entrepreneurs to launch online event planning businesses. If you enjoy organizing meaningful experiences and have a knack for technology, a virtual event planning side hustle may provide the perfect income stream.
What Does a Virtual Event Planner Do?
Instead of venue booking and floral arrangements, virtual event planners focus on selecting web platforms, scheduling speakers, and enhancing online engagement. Typical virtual event coordination includes:
- Researching interactive website and app options
- Managing registration, payment collection and reminders
- Coordinating presentations, webinars and digital content
- Promoting events on social media to drive participation
- Overseeing tech and troubleshooting issues before/during events
- Gathering attendee feedback for future events
With the demand for hybrid online/in-person professional events here to stay, virtual event planning provides steady income potential.
Launching Your Virtual Event Planning Business
Follow these steps to start earning money as an online event coordinator:
- Define your niche - Specialize in organizing corporate trainings, academic conferences, nonprofit fundraisers etc. Narrowing your focus allows you to tailor your services.
- Develop tech expertise - Master popular virtual event platforms like Hopin, Run the World and Cvent. Become the go-to pro for seamless digital events.
- Create service packages - Offer tiered coordination plans based on hours needed and services offered so clients can choose what fits their budget and needs.
- Market yourself - Build a portfolio website showcasing past events. Promote your services through local organizations and social media. Offer free consultations to land new clients.
The demand for smoothly orchestrated virtual events makes this a lucrative and future-proof small business idea perfectly suited for tech-savvy organizers.
Maximizing Your Event Planning Income
Employ these strategies to increase profits as an online event planner:
- Offer discounts for multi-event contracts to secure repeat business
- Develop efficient checklists and timelines to improve productivity
- Ask happy clients for testimonials and referrals
- Stay on top of the latest virtual event technology features and trends
- Consider hiring subcontractors during busy periods to take on more events
With the right combination of organizational chops, technical abilities and marketing hustle, virtual event coordination offers full-time income potential for motivated entrepreneurs.