Dennis Shiao, a blogger I’ve followed since 2008, published a post suggesting “3 more features that webinar platforms should have.” His second suggestion inspired a workaround for webinar organisers.
Use a Twitter Wall
I recommend creating event hashtags on Twitter for webinars, particularly those using GoToWebinar. Integrating social interactions makes sessions more engaging and increases visibility.
The tool Strea.ma streams tweets and content from other social networks, including Instagram images. Displaying a filtered Twitter wall with a specific hashtag encourages participant engagement compared to “the dreaded static Q&A slide.”
While some worry about uncontrolled posts, the tool allows filtering. Raw, unexpected social media content is valuable — speakers can still select the most relevant questions anyway.
Show the Answers
Rather than answering questions through audio alone, displaying relevant slides improves participant retention. Visual representation enhances learning. Whiteboard features or screen sharing can also effectively demonstrate points.
Marketing Slides? Uhm no.
Marketing slides rotating during Q&A sessions distract participants and may disengage them. While slides can appear in agendas, they shouldn’t appear during questions — especially in training webinars.
What other ideas do you have for making this segment more interesting?