{"id":22423,"date":"2020-05-10T11:58:38","date_gmt":"2020-05-10T16:58:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gigsalad.com\/blog\/?p=22423"},"modified":"2025-03-21T12:39:49","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T17:39:49","slug":"the-ultimate-guide-to-offering-virtual-services","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gigsalad.com\/blog\/the-ultimate-guide-to-offering-virtual-services\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Offering Virtual Services"},"content":{"rendered":"

Last updated on March 21, 2025<\/p>
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Virtual services aren’t a new concept, but they’re certainly a growing trend amidst the stay-at-home orders and restrictions on public events. Many performers and entertainers are finding virtual events to be a great way to make up for lost gigs during this lull in the economy. Offering virtual services is a great addition to your business, but it’s important to learn all you can about making them successful. We spoke to several of GigSalad’s most active members and put together this handy guide for offering virtual services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the gig<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As with any gig, preparation is important. Since you’re relying so much on technology, a virtual event may need even more attention to make sure things run smoothly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know the platforms <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are lots of platforms you can choose from, but we’ll discuss the most popular choices below. These are likely to be most well-known to your clients, too, which will make things easier for both of you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zoom<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

As a free conferencing software, Zoom has definitely risen above the competition. While it does have a 40-minute time limit on its free service, that’s usually plenty of time for a virtual event. You can record the calls and share them later if you’d like. It also allows for customizable backgrounds, which can be fun! But most importantly, it boasts HD video and audio. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you’re a musician, you may have trouble with its features that are aimed toward video conferencing – meaning it attempts to block out noise such as music. This option may be best for virtual events looking for character visits, birthday telegrams, or motivational speakers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, Zoom allows you to see up to 49 participants at once (100 total) which makes it ideal for virtual events with large groups. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about Zoom<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Facebook Live <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Another free and well-known option is Facebook Live. Participants can join the Facebook Live call via link, even if they don’t have a Facebook account. You won’t be able to make this private, so keep that in mind if it’s of concern to you or your client. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

GigSalad member, violinist Celeste Vee<\/a>, prefers this platform for her virtual gigs. She says, “Facebook Live is my favorite because the audio quality is pretty consistent and clear.” This option may be best if you’re a musician. It has been a great host to lots of celebrity “living room concerts” lately!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about Facebook Live<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skype<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

As one of the first services to offer video conferences, most people are familiar with this platform. While it does lack some of the features of Zoom, it’s very easy to set up. GigSalad member Santa Ed Taylor<\/a> prefers Skype because “I like being able to record my appearance. Skype makes that very easy.” Skype will store your recorded meetings for up to 30 days, which allows you and your client to download and save it if you’d like. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you (or your client) find it complicated to download new software, you might consider Skype Meet Now which allows participants to join with a click – no new applications are necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about Skype<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check your equipment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When preparing to delve into the world of virtual events, you should take a moment to check over your audio and visual equipment. We’ve all experienced the frustration of a choppy online meeting and you certainly don’t want a paying client to have that same annoyance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

GigSalad member, singing guitarist Christopher Wooley<\/a>, advises to “try to make sure your audio quality is as good as possible. I’ve been taking a direct output for vocals and guitar straight from my amplifier into my iPhone. The audio quality is exceptional.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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