How To Guide
How to Set Up Webinar Software Like GoToWebinar
Webinars are powerful for lead generation, training, and thought leadership. Proper setup ensures a professional experience for presenters and attendees.
Overview
Popular webinar platforms include Zoom Webinars, GoToWebinar, Microsoft Teams Live Events, and Webex. All follow similar setup patterns.
Step 1: Platform Setup
Configure your webinar platform.
1
Create and Configure Webinar
- Log into your webinar platform
- Create new webinar: set title, date, time, and duration
- Write a compelling description (this appears on the registration page)
- Add co-presenters/panellists with their email addresses
- Set up registration form: Name, Email, Company (keep it short)
- Enable automatic confirmation emails
- Set up reminder emails: 1 day before and 1 hour before
2
Technical Settings
- Enable practice session (30 minutes before go-live)
- Set up Q&A panel and chat settings
- Configure recording: Automatic recording recommended
- Enable attendee mute-on-entry
- Set up polls if planning interactive elements
- Test audio and video quality before the event
Step 2: Delivering the Webinar
Run a smooth, professional webinar.
1
Pre-Webinar Checklist
- Test equipment 1 hour before: Camera, microphone, screen sharing
- Close unnecessary applications to free up system resources
- Use a wired internet connection if possible
- Have a backup plan: co-host who can take over if you disconnect
- Join practice session 30 minutes early
- Have water nearby and silence your phone
2
During the Webinar
- Start on time — respect attendees' schedules
- Introduce yourself and set expectations for the session
- Engage with polls, Q&A, and chat throughout
- Have a moderator handle chat and Q&A if possible
- Monitor attendee engagement — adjust pace if needed
- End with clear next steps and call to action
Step 3: Post-Webinar Follow-Up
Maximise value after the webinar.
1
After the Event
- Send recording link to all registrants within 24 hours
- Include attendees who registered but couldn't attend
- Send a follow-up email with key takeaways and resources
- Review analytics: Attendance rate, engagement, Q&A topics
- Survey attendees for feedback to improve future webinars
- Repurpose content: Blog posts, social media clips, email series
4
Engagement Strategies
- Launch polls every 10-15 minutes to maintain attention and gather data
- Use Q&A panel rather than open chat for structured audience interaction
- Include interactive elements: Live demos, breakout discussions, audience polls
- Have a dedicated moderator to manage chat, Q&A, and technical issues
- Share relevant resources in the chat at appropriate moments
- Use engagement analytics during the webinar to adjust pace and content
5
Scaling Your Webinar Programme
- Create a content calendar for regular webinar series (monthly or quarterly)
- Repurpose webinar content into blog posts, social media clips, and email campaigns
- Build an evergreen webinar library for on-demand viewing
- Track key metrics: Registration rate, attendance rate, engagement score, conversion rate
- Use webinar analytics to identify your most effective topics and presenters
- Consider multi-speaker panel formats for variety and broader expertise
Need Professional Help?
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