While you can’t replace face-to-face networking, virtual events are a great option and may even be a better alternative, particularly when an in-person event proves too challenging or expensive. A key component of a successful virtual event is choosing a suitable hosting platform that meets your needs. While there are many platforms to choose from, one you may not have already considered is Linkedin Audio Events.
As the name suggests, LinkedIn Audio Events allow you to set up group audio calls with invitees over LinkedIn. Like a real-time podcast, a LinkedIn Audio Event consists of several speakers and an audience of listeners. This format is not designed for workplace collaboration like Slack but for thought leadership events with your followers and any guests or connections you invite.
How can MSPs use LinkedIn Audio Events effectively?
MSPs can use LinkedIn Audio Events to engage with their respective audiences. Once you have built up followers through other thought leadership methods (such as social media posting, attending networking events, writing articles for business journals, etc.), you can connect with them through audio events. You’ll have the ability to increase brand awareness and become a trusted advisor in the online community.
While listeners have somewhat limited participation in an audio event, LinkedIn Audio Events can still be an effective way to engage with your followers. You can send a direct message or follow any listener by tapping on a listener’s profile picture in an audio event. You can also enable questions or allow listeners to speak by inviting them “onstage,” which lets them unmute and speak to you and the audience. You will know when someone wants to say something by a raised hand emoji on their profile picture.
What are the requirements to host an event?
To host an audio event, you must have at least 150 connections and a history of following LinkedIn’s Professional Community Policies. Chances are you are following these policies already without thinking about them, but in short, you must tell the truth and not promote abuse or violence. Professional community policies should not be an issue if you have those covered.
The only other rules to consider when using LinkedIn Audio Events are that they’re unavailable in mainland China and must last between 15 minutes and three hours. Of course, the professional community policies also apply to the event’s content.
How does it differ from other platforms?
Functionally, LinkedIn Audio Events work similarly to channels such as Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces. The main difference between LinkedIn and other platforms that offer audio events is that listeners are less anonymous on LinkedIn. You can follow or DM anyone in the audience, see everyone’s profile in the event and view the demographics of your event’s audience after the meeting.
How do you create an event?
This Hubspot article lays out how to create a LinkedIn Audio Event nicely, but to summarize, events are created as part of a post. As you construct a LinkedIn post, you should see an option to create an event. From there, in “Event Format,” you can select an audio event. After adding in the date, time and a few other details, the event will be scheduled.
If you haven’t used LinkedIn Audio Events, you may want to try the platform for your next virtual event. Remember, engaging with your community and providing expert industry advice are great ways to provide value to current customers and prospects.
