The majority of companies are opting to host a hybrid Annual General Meeting (AGM) to accommodate a wider range of attendees. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of hosting a hybrid AGM and how to make the most of this format.
One of the primary benefits of hosting a hybrid AGM is reaching a wider audience. With some attendees participating in person and others joining remotely, you can accommodate a greater number of people without the need for costly travel. This can be especially useful for companies with a dispersed shareholder base or for attendees who may have mobility issues.
Another benefit of hosting a hybrid AGM is the increased flexibility it offers. With a mix of in-person and virtual elements, you can tailor the meeting to the needs of your attendees and make it more interactive. For example, you can use tools like polls, surveys, and breakout rooms to gather feedback and encourage participation. This can help to foster a sense of community and ensure that everyone's voices are heard.
In addition, hosting a hybrid AGM can also be more cost-effective for the company. You can save on expenses like airfare, accommodation, and transportation by reducing the need for travel. This can be especially important in the current economic climate when many companies want to cut costs wherever possible.
To make the most of a hybrid AGM, it's essential to choose the right video conferencing platform and to test it out beforehand. Many options range from free services like Zoom to more advanced enterprise solutions. Whichever platform you choose, ensure that it meets your needs and that all participants are comfortable using it.
It's also important to consider the needs of remote attendees when planning the agenda and format of the meeting. Rather than packing the schedule with long presentations and lengthy discussion sessions, consider breaking up the meeting into smaller chunks and incorporating interactive elements. This can help to keep remote attendees engaged and prevent them from feeling left out of the conversation.
To conclude, hosting a hybrid AGM can offer a range of benefits for both the company and attendees. From increased flexibility and cost-effectiveness to reaching a wider audience, this format can help make your AGM a success.