Are you ready, but just as anxious to host your first global webinar and share your expertise with a worldwide audience? I’ve been there too, and I’m here to guide you through each step!
Previously, I launched a global webinar on Facebook ads training, and while I’d hosted local events before, taking it online came with some new challenges. I also share the behind-the-scenes work my team and I did in running my first online workshop.
This guide will help you navigate the rough patches of launching a webinar. Whether you’re looking for a simple setup or a more advanced strategy for selling products or services through your webinar.
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Getting Started for Your Global Zoom Webinar
1. Choosing Your Webinar Platform: Zoom Meetings vs. Zoom Webinar
When setting up an online event, choosing the right platform is key. I decided to use Zoom’s “Meetings” feature instead of the “Webinar” feature because it’s more budget-friendly, costing around $20 per month compared to Zoom Webinar’s higher fees.
While Zoom Meetings lacks some of the advanced webinar features, it’s a solid choice for beginners.
- Cost-effective: Less than $20 per month for the Pro version.
- Sufficient for shorter webinars: If your session is under 40 minutes, you can technically use Zoom’s free version.
Pro Tip: If you expect a longer session or a Q&A portion that may extend the time, opt for the Pro version to avoid disruptions.
2. Setting Up Your Zoom Link
- Create the Meeting on the Zoom website or app.
- Customize Registration Options – Enable a registration link so attendees can sign up with their name and email.
- Use Branding Features – Add your company’s banner, logo, and description to personalize the registration page.
- Automatic Recording: Set the meeting to automatically record in the cloud.
- Mute on Entry: This reduces background noise as participants join.
- Focus Mode: This hides participant videos and profile photos so the focus stays on you.
3. Promoting Your Webinar: Platforms and Strategies
To drive traffic to your webinar, list it on platforms where your audience is active. Here are a few effective ones:
- LinkedIn: Create an event on LinkedIn, and invite your network directly. This feature is fantastic for professional audiences.
- Facebook Events: Facebook makes it easy to create events and invite friends, especially if you’re active on the platform. Simply click on Events to create one, and customize it with the start date and banner of your choice.
- Eventbrite: If you want to expand beyond your immediate network, Eventbrite’s SEO and paid ads options can put your event in front of new eyes.
Pro Tip: Want to boost visibility on Eventbrite? A small budget can help place your event at the top of relevant search results on the platform.
4. Setting Up Your Sales Funnel
If your goal is to sell products or services through your webinar, consider creating a sales funnel.
- Build a Registration Funnel: Instead of using Zoom’s registration, create a landing page using a tool like ClickFunnels or WordPress.
- Automate Notifications: Use tools like Zapier to automate emails so registrants receive the Zoom link and any follow-up messages.
- Post-Event Sales Sequence: Use a follow-up email sequence to promote any VIP offers or upsells related to the webinar.
5. Marketing Your Webinar for Maximum Reach
Marketing your webinar effectively is crucial to filling those virtual seats. Here’s a sample plan:
- Social Media Posts: Announce your webinar on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
- Engaging Content: Share relevant posts, teaser videos, or behind-the-scenes content to build excitement.
- Direct Outreach: Personally invite people who would be interested in the topic. A warm invite can go a long way.
Pro Tip: Use different formats for each platform. For example, post event teasers on Instagram Stories and LinkedIn articles to engage different audiences.
If you’re ready to invest some money in your advertising strategy, you can promote your webinar through:
- Facebook Ads: Target your ideal audience based on interests or location.
- LinkedIn Ads: If you’re targeting professionals, LinkedIn ads can help reach a business-focused audience.
- Eventbrite Ads: Great for industry-specific keywords and attendees actively looking for events.
Here are a few last-minute tips to ensure your webinar goes smoothly:
- Prepare a Presentation: Keep slides concise and visually appealing.
- Engage with Attendees: Start with an icebreaker or quick Q&A to set a relaxed tone.
- Encourage Interaction: Leave time at the end for questions, and consider using Zoom’s chat feature to make the session interactive.
Wrapping Up: Follow Up After the Webinar
Once your webinar is over, don’t stop there! A follow-up sequence can make all the difference:
- Send a Thank-You Email: Show your appreciation to attendees for joining by sending a heartfelt email.
- Share the Recording: For those who couldn’t attend live, offer the replay.
- Promote Your Offers: If you have any VIP opportunities or products to offer, now is a great time to share them with your attendees.
Starting a global webinar may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a solid plan, it’s entirely doable. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or exploring advanced strategies to monetize your session, each step adds value for your audience and helps build a lasting connection.
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Hyein
I’m an award-winning global marketing expert running HY Marketing in South Korea. We help businesses succeed in South Korea, Japan, and English-speaking markets through social media and Facebook ads.
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