How to Make Virtual Events More Engaging

Are Your Virtual Events Putting People to Sleep?

Most virtual events feel more like a boring slideshow than a real experience. People log in, turn off their cameras, and mentally check out. You’ve probably seen it happen… or maybe even done it yourself.

And that’s a big problem if you’re a London-based company trying to connect, impress, or sell. Because when people aren’t engaged, they’re not listening. They forget your message, tune out your brand, and miss the whole point of the event. That means wasted time, money, and effort.

But with just a few simple changes, your online events can go from “meh” to memorable. 

Let’s jump in and make your next virtual event fun, fresh, and unforgettable.

In this blog, we’ll show you easy ways to turn dull virtual sessions into exciting, interactive experiences your audience will love, from the moment they join till the final wave goodbye.

WHY VIRTUAL EVENTS NEED TO BE ENGAGING

You might be thinking, “It’s just an online meeting, what’s the big deal?”

But if people aren’t having fun, they’re not listening, they’re not learning, and they definitely won’t remember your event.

When your virtual event is innovative and engaging:

• People show up AND stay longer.
• They remember what you said.
• They feel more connected to your brand.
• They might even become customers.
  

So yep, fun = results.

HOOK THEM FROM THE START

Think about your favorite cartoon. It starts with fun music, bright colours, and something that grabs your attention.

Your virtual event needs that kind of start.

Here’s how:

• Play a quick welcome video. Something bright, cheerful, and short.
• Ask a fun question, like “What’s your dream superpower?” It gets people typing in the chat immediately.
• Use music and movement: light background music and animated visuals to make the screen feel alive.

MAKE IT A CHAT, NOT A LECTURE

Nobody wants to just sit and listen. People want to join in. Your event should feel more like a conversation than a school lecture.

Try this:

• Live Q&A: Let people type questions and answer them in real time. It makes them feel heard.
• Polls and quizzes: Ask what people think or throw in a fun trivia question. Tools like Slido and Mentimeter make this easy.
• Breakout rooms: Let people split into small groups to chat. It’s like sitting at a table with friends.

MAKE IT FUN TO EXPLORE

Think about your favorite video game. You get to explore, click stuff, and do things. Your event can be like that too.

• Turn it into a game. Give people points for answering polls or joining sessions. Show a leaderboard. Offer small prizes.
• Virtual booths: Let people pick what to join or who to listen to. It feels like walking through an event hall.
• Interactive whiteboards: Use tools that let everyone draw or write ideas together in real time. It’s fun and useful.

LOOKS AND SOUNDS MATTER

A great event should look good and sound clear. No fuzzy screens or crackly mics, please.

• Use bright pictures and short videos, keep slides simple and colourful.
• Use a good mic so your voice is clear and easy to hear.
• Don’t let one person talk forever. Add short videos, change speakers, or throw in a quick quiz.
  

BEFORE AND AFTER THE EVENT COUNT TOO

The event begins before login and continues after the screen goes dark.

Before the event:

• Send fun teaser emails.
• Share a countdown or mini surprise like a wallpaper or GIF.
• Create buzz on social media.

After the event:

• Send a thank you message.
• Share the best moments in a short video.
• Invite people to join an online group or forum to stay connected.
• Send the recording for those who missed it.

WHY THIS STUFF MATTERS

If your event is boring, people will leave. Simple as that.

But if it’s fun and exciting?

• More people show up.
• They remember your message.
• They connect with you.
• They might even share it with friends.

And when that happens, your event isn’t just a “meeting.” It becomes something people actually look forward to.

QUICK COMPARISON: WHAT WORKS AND WHY

Here is a quick comparison to help you understand what works best and why: 

PICK THE RIGHT TOOLS

The platform you use can make or break the event.

Look for one that’s:

• Easy to use. 
• Fun-ready (Polls, chat, video sharing).
• Good for your crowd size.

Some great tools: Zoom Events, Hopin, Goldcast, Accelevents, and Remo (great for group chats and real-time polls).

FINAL WORDS

Alright, here’s the big takeaway:

Virtual events don’t need to be boring.

They can be fun, memorable, and easy to enjoy; you just need to plan them right.

Using the right virtual event platform makes everything easier. You don’t want tech stress halfway through an event.

So, always pick a tool that:

• It is easy for guests to use.
• Works on all devices.
• Supports games, polls, and breakouts.
• Looks and feels modern.

By focusing on interactive features, smart visuals, and personal touches, you can:

• Boost attendance.
• Hold attention longer.
• Create real brand impact.
• Inspire action (like signups, sales, or shares).

And more importantly? You’ll make people feel something. That’s what truly sets an event apart.

Creating engaging virtual events isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about connection. It’s about care. And it’s about bringing energy, even when you’re thousands of miles apart.

At EMS Events, we’ve spent years helping brands, businesses, and institutions across London run virtual experiences that don’t just work, but wow. Whether it’s a corporate webinar, an awards night, or a global product launch, we bring the tech, the people, and the creativity to make it shine.

So go ahead, make your next virtual event the kind of people talk about (in a good way).