Editing Supporting Virtual Engagement

{{Words of Wisdom
| wisdom  = 
Virtual engagement is not a substitute for engagement—it is engagement.

It expands how members connect—making participation more flexible, accessible, and sustainable.
| success = 
* Members can engage without attending in-person events  
* Participation happens at multiple levels  
* Virtual options are used consistently over time  
* Members feel included regardless of location or activity level  
| best    = 
* Keep options simple and accessible
* Offer both live and asynchronous opportunities
* Focus on consistency rather than volume
* Use communication channels members already know
* Make participation easy at different comfort levels
| pitfalls =
* Treating virtual engagement as secondary to in-person events  
* Requiring high levels of participation or visibility  
* Overcomplicating tools or platforms  
* Expecting all members to use the same channels  
* Ignoring quieter or less-visible participants  
}}
== Purpose ==
Help Local Groups provide meaningful opportunities for members to connect, participate, and engage virtually so that virtual engagement is considered part of the core member experience.

== What This Means in Practice ==

A strong virtual presence helps ensure that all members—not just event attendees—feel included.

Virtual engagement works best when it:

* Provides flexible ways to connect
* Supports different levels of engagement
* Creates opportunities for interaction and community
* Reduces barriers to participation

Successful virtual engagement is:

* '''Consistent''' — Members know what to expect
* '''Accessible''' — Participation is easy and straightforward
* '''Welcoming''' — New voices are encouraged
* '''Varied''' — Different options appeal to different members

A small number of well-run opportunities is often more effective than many underused ones.

== Providing Virtual Engagement ==
== Virtual Engagement Options ==

{| class="wikitable"
! Type !! Examples
|-
| Communication
|
* Email lists
* Newsletters
* Social media groups
* Online discussion spaces
|-
| Activities
|
* Virtual game nights
* Book clubs
* Speaker presentations
* Discussion groups
* Trivia events
|-
| Volunteer Opportunities
|
* Newsletter contributions
* Social media support
* Website updates
* Committee participation
|-
| Asynchronous Engagement
|
* Discussion threads
* Polls and surveys
* Shared resources
* Recorded presentations
|}

== Related ==
* [[Member Engagement]]
* [[Local Group Events and Activities]]
* [[Supporting Remote Members]]
* [[Local Group Event Channels and Platforms]]