Supporting Virtual Engagement
Virtual engagement is not a substitute for engagement—it is engagement.
It expands how members connect—making participation more flexible, accessible, and sustainable.
What Success Looks Like
- 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 Practices
- Keep options simple and accessible
- Offer a mix of synchronous and asynchronous opportunities
- Focus on consistency rather than volume
- Make it easy for members to participate at their comfort level
Common 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:
- Reduces barriers to participation
- Provides flexible ways to connect
- Supports different levels of engagement
- Creates opportunities for interaction and community
Successful virtual engagement is:
- '''Consistent''' — Regular posts or events build familiarity
- '''Welcoming''' — New voices are acknowledged and encouraged
- '''Accessible''' — Clear instructions and minimal barriers
- '''Varied''' — Different formats appeal to different members
It doesn’t have to be complex. A small number of well-run options is more effective than many underused ones.
Ways Members Can Engage Virtually
Communication & Community
- Local group email lists
- Social media groups (Facebook, Discord, etc.)
- Online discussion forums
- Newsletters and digital publications
Events & Activities
- Virtual game nights
- Book clubs or discussion groups
- Speaker presentations or panels
- Trivia or themed gatherings
Volunteering & Leadership
- Writing for newsletters
- Helping manage social platforms
- Contributing to websites or toolkits
- Serving on committees or task forces
Offer Multiple Ways to Participate
| Participation Style | Examples |
|---|---|
| Stay Informed |
|
| Light Interaction |
|
| Join Virtual Activities |
|
| Contribute |
|
Support Effective Virtual Events
Virtual events are most effective when they are:
- Easy to join
- Welcoming and low-pressure
- Structured but flexible
- Respectful of participants' time
Provide clear information about:
- Platform
- Access instructions
- Time zone
- Participation expectations
Use Multiple Communication Channels
Virtual engagement often happens across multiple spaces:
- Email or newsletter
- Online discussion platforms (e.g., Slack, Discord)
- Social media groups
- Shared documents or forums
Not all members will use every channel—and that is expected.
Make Participation Inclusive
- Offer asynchronous options to allow members to participate on their own schedule.
- Reading newsletters
- Participating in discussion threads
- Viewing recordings
- Responding to polls or surveys
- Be mindful of time zones and schedules
- Support different comfort levels (active or quiet participation)
- Keep technology requirements simple
Encourage Connection
Connection can happen even in low-key or asynchronous settings.
- Welcome new participants in chats or discussions
- Use names and acknowledge contributions
- Allow space for informal interaction
Tips for Leaders
- Start with one or two virtual options
- Use communication channels members already know
- Focus on participation and interaction
- Build consistency before expanding