7 Stages of Planning a Virtual Summit

So, you've got this amazing idea for a virtual summit – awesome! They're a fantastic way to connect with your audience, show off your expertise, and maybe even score some new fans (or customers!). But where do you even begin? 

How do you take that idea and turn it into an online event that knocks everyone's socks off? 

Here's the truth, planning a virtual summit might seem daunting, but don't worry- you're in the right place! This guide will break it down into 7 key stages to rocking your virtual summit from start to finish and every step in between.

7 Stages of Planning a Virtual Summit

from planning and promotion to production and post-event launch plans that present an incredible next step offer, these 7 stage will guide your virtual summit planning and make sure you handle all tasks with care. 

Stage 1: Planning 

Before you get swept up in all the fancy speaker invites and website design, take a beat. Planning a virtual summit starts with understanding what you want to achieve. Is your goal to spread brand awareness like wildfire, teach people awesome stuff, or launch that new product you've been cooking up?

Who are you trying to reach? Understanding your target audience – their age, interests, the whole shebang – will guide everything from speaker selection to the kind of content you create. And once your goals are clear, you can figure out who you want to invite to speak. 

Stage 2: Partner

Ever heard the saying two heads are better than one?

Well, guess what? It applies to virtual summits too!

Consider co-hosting your event. This is a fantastic way to combine resources, expertise, and double your audience reach. Just make sure your partner complements your strengths and brings something extra to the table. Read this post about co-hosting virtual summits!

Stage 3: Pitch

To snag the rockstar speakers and sponsors that'll make your summit epic, you need a pitch that'll knock their socks off. Make sure you know what you can offer them in exchange for joining the team, and be prepared to know what you see them bringing to the table as well.

Pitching for a virtual summit means crafting a message that effectively showcases the benefits of being involved in your event. Think about what's in it for them – exposure, brand recognition, maybe even some new leads?

Grab our free speaker pitch template for a little headstart!

Stage 4: Prepare

Your virtual summit website is basically the event's mission control.

It's where attendees will learn about the summit, register, and find out all the juicy details. Planning a virtual summit requires creating a user-friendly website with speaker profiles, session descriptions, and a clear schedule of events.

We've got templates, tools and even a full Kajabi event website template pack, if you need a boost or just wanna save some time! Click here to review our DIY solutions! 

Stage 5: Promote

Now that you've got a solid foundation, it's time to generate some buzz!

When planning a virtual summit you want to strive for maximum impact! This involves using different marketing channels to make sure your event is seen. We're talking email marketing, social media campaigns, content marketing, and maybe even collaborating with some influencers to spread the word.

Make sure you give your speakers swipe copy to help with promotion as well! Grab our Speaker Promo Template Pack for a variety of Canva Templates you can easily customize. 

Stage 6: Produce

The big day has arrived! To ensure a smooth virtual experience for your attendees, take care of the technical aspects beforehand.

Planning a virtual summit successfully means testing your streaming capabilities, ironing out any potential glitches, and creating a user-friendly platform for attendees. Producing your event means making sure everyone has what they need, when they need it, and that the live event feels good for everyone included. 

Stage 7: Present

Don't let the momentum die after the virtual summit wraps up!

Capitalize on the connections you've made by offering post-event resources, special offers, or even membership options. Present your attendees with their next step as well as the best ways to stay engaged and keep learning after the event.

7 Stages of Planning a Virtual Summit

Planning a virtual summit may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right approach, you can transform your idea into a reality that achieves your goals and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

This blog covered 7 key stages, taking you from the initial planning stages to promoting your event, delivering a smooth production, and capitalizing on post-event opportunities.

By following these steps and staying organized, focused, and enthusiastic, you'll be well on your way to hosting a virtual summit that exceeds expectations.

So, what are you waiting for?

Grab your favorite planning tool, and get ready to bring your virtual summit to life! Click here to head over to the Summit Host Store!