5 takeaways from a virtual connection and engagement training

Experiences Designed to Connect - that's what we do here at Grae. Connecting people to each other and to brands is what drives us, and what drives our clients, whether it is from across the country or across the screen. 

While connection is important at large scale, in-person events, since shelter in place we’ve found ourselves often facilitating connection at virtual gatherings, from leadership summits to executive happy hours. One thing is clear, connections that often occur organically in person need to be fostered online. 

We are proud to work with incredible partners at Grae, whether we are producing a content piece or shipping food and beverage. In the case of serving up connection, we like to turn to our friends at the Scaling Intimacy School of Experience Design. Some of our team recently attended their Virtual Connection and Engagement training. Here’s 5 takeaways for anyone creating experiences in the virtual space:

Facilitation & connection is for everyone

This training was full of professionals who host and facilitate virtually. As the training opened, we connected with each other through the various ways each attendee leverages virtual engagement. From digital training, onboarding, leadership development and offsites to retreats, workshops and field events, the use cases seemed to be endless. Bottom line? If you are engaging online, facilitation and connection training is for you.

No engagement? No excuse. 

Some events are designed with connection in mind while others are built on content. Our facilitator rightfully argued that it doesn't have to be one or the other. While we are all familiar with polls, breakout rooms and chat - it is increasingly important to consider how and how often they are utilized. Engaging at the opening of a session can be a great way to set the tone, but limiting connection to that single interaction just isn’t enough. Consider the moments where a break in content can be most valuable, and bring the audience back from potential distractions.

Face the feedback

While many facilitators or planners can read a room (we all know when it’s time for the DJ to pick up that beat) this can be more nuanced when it comes to the digital space. Gauging in the moment feedback can be incredibly valuable, and easily done by requesting simple physical responses from participants. If you are worried perception may skew responses, an anonymous poll can be your best friend. 

Breaking the ice

If the term icebreaker makes you groan, it’s time to reframe this long held tradition with your audience to break the ice (see what we did there). Our facilitator referred to this concept as play on purpose, something that they have an entire website dedicated to training and implementation. Their theory is that experiential play establishes stronger relationships and connections. I won’t ruin the surprise for those interested in taking the training - but suffice it to say the three games we played during our time together had me feeling everything from joy to awe as I learned more about my fellow participants.

Not all facilitation is created equal

While an in person event seemingly requires more attention to detail as it concerns aesthetic, food and beverage, av, facilities (the list goes on) - virtual events present their own planning obstacles. Not only should the plan facilitate engagement, it must also include the technical direction and intention to ensure a perfect delivery. From tech rehearsals to digital content - with all eyes on you, your execution must be flawless. 

Whether you are looking to set your company up for success on a virtual platform, or need a technical director pulling the strings to allow for maximum connection and engagement, we can help. From content through to virtual rehearsals, Grae knows how to ensure the focus is on connection. Drop us a line to find out how we can build an experiential strategy that enhances your engagement.

Interested in taking a facilitation training yourself? Reach out for a direct connection to the Scaling Intimacy team!