Andy Goodman of The Goodman Center offered an exclusive webinar for our community to talk about the do’s and don’ts of virtual gatherings. Here’s some of his advice to prevent your next webinar from becoming what Andy calls, “a mind-numbing information download.”

Andy focused on his five guidelines for better webinars:

· Set expectations

· Keep it personal

· Keep viewers active

· Use your assets

· Keep it moving

Within those guidelines, Andy offered more detailed advice. Here are 10 tips:

· With small groups – fewer than 20 or 25 people – unmute microphones

· In small groups, turn cameras on for introductions only

· In large groups, assign someone else to keep an eye on the Q&A box, as well as troubleshoot any technical issues

· Have a plan B, in case of technical problems

· A tip from radio: speak as if you are speaking to an individual

· Bring in other voices to break up the monotony

· Start on time and give people something to do right from the start

· Use pop quizzes, polling or pre-work to keep people engaged

· Stop frequently to take questions

· Remember, active participants are happy participants