Epic Events Podcast with
Liz Lathan

How Can Event Tech Foster and Sustain Virtual Communities? | Liz Lathan | CMP Club Ichi

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  • Liz Lathan

    Liz Lathan CMP is a 20-year event industry veteran specializing in virtual and hybrid programs since 2011. She co-founded Club Ichi, a top platform for B2B event marketers to connect, and The Community Factory, which helps organizations build and maintain event communities.

About the Episode

Technology’s evolving impact on event planning and community management is evident in today’s world. While technology offers new ways to connect, it can also overwhelm users. The potential of AI to curate relevant content and manage information overload is promising but still developing.

Liz Lathan, who appears on this episode as a guest, and vFairs CEO M. Younas both stress the importance of considering the community’s needs and preferences. They highlight the significance of selecting the most suitable tools for the specific audience.

Our guest further discussed the significance of engagement, which should be assessed through cognitive, behavioral, and emotional metrics to gauge and foster community involvement effectively.

Key Takeaways: 

Here are a few actionable takeaways Liz and Younas discussed around event planning and community building, and how event tech can supplement both.

  • Event marketers should leverage personal experiences to create welcoming, personalized event experiences that resonate with your audience.
  •  Design networking-focused events where attendees can share insights and solve problems, rather than relying on keynote and breakout sessions.
  •  Try unique event formats like live telethons or interactive broadcasts to quickly build community and drive engagement.
  • Host regular virtual gatherings and discussions on platforms your audience uses (e.g., Slack) to keep the community active year-round.
  • Use AI and tech tools to streamline engagement, but prioritize face-to-face or high-touch interactions for meaningful connections.
  •  Establish clear boundaries for work hours, especially around events, and ensure your team is supported with downtime and psychological safety.
  •  Attend events in different industries to gather fresh ideas and approaches for your own event planning and engagement strategies.
  • Build your community around a specific goal (product, practice, or purpose) and ensure there’s a relatable, visible leader to foster engagement.
  • Apply the “Five C’s” (Care, Collaborate, Co-create, Converse, Connect) to keep your community involved and foster long-term loyalty.