Being in the webinar (online seminar) business, a big percentage of those not familiar with the concept, can’t seem to grasp the benefit of attending one. Most are used to attending face-to-face seminars and think it should stay that way.
Some though see the benefit of getting more information from an expert in an online format. Not only do you get to save travel and accommodation costs, it is more comfortable attending one at the comfort of your home. But, is it just that? Okay, let’s add saving the planet to the list of benefits since you will not be traveling, you will not contribute to the existing carbon gases each vehicle expels in the environment.
One important benefit that a lot fail to see is professional development. We all know the reason we attend a seminar is to gain knowledge, hoping it would help in your existing endeavor. We expect the speakers to share their expertise in their field and it can be presented in several formats.
Research, existing trends, tips and techniques and case studies. This sounds like it will help the company instead of the individual. It really depends on the purpose of the seminar. Sometimes a seminar can become a training program. There is that fine line between the two.
So, how does a webinar come into play? Attending a webinar for your professional development is more effective than your traditional seminars. The fact that it is done in a short duration, you get the “meat” of discussion and feel like you are having a one-on-one consultation with the speaker. You have a bigger chance that your question will be answered which makes it more personalized. You avoid the pressure of having to walk up to a microphone in the middle of the room, with hundreds of eyes looking at you. You are then comfortable and more receptive to learning and retention is higher.
