Next week is the start of the Association for Talent Development’s Virtual Conference: Unleash Potential. Many of us have started to grow more accustomed to all things virtual, from meetings to happy hours to conferences. That doesn’t mean we are immune to technical issues. Even the most technically savvy of us still face our challenges. Here are ways you can ensure a strong connection during the Virtual Conference and its many offerings.

Choose Chrome or Edge. ATD has partnered with Pathable for our virtual event platform. You can access this platform on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. For the best viewing experience, we strongly recommend you use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browsers. If you’re unable to access those browsers, download the mobile app from the Apple or Google Play stores; search for ATD Virtual Events, and then choose ATD Unleash Potential.

Attend sessions. For on-demand content, the video player is embedded into the session page within the platform. Just press the play button to start any video.

Join the keynote and educational breakout sessions by selecting the session from the agenda. These will include pre-recorded content with live Q&As and fully live streaming sessions. For sessions with pre-recorded content, press the play button to watch the session video; then click the Join Live Meeting button once available. For live sessions, press the Join Meeting button from the session page.

All sessions will have a dedicated time for live Q&As. To direct your questions to the speakers, go to the Polls feature and use the Have Questions? Our Speakers Have Answers poll. Don’t forget to upvote questions that you’d like answered.

Join the discussion. To get involved, meet others, and learn more on different topics, join a discussion. ATD has set up several to get you started, or you can create your own. Visit the Join the Conversation tab. Add photos or share resources (via URLs) with other attendees.

Install software for easier socializing. Install Zoom Client for Meetings to participate in private meetings, happy hours, or topical roundtable discussions. You will need an account, and installing the software in advance makes it easier for you to use all of the Zoom technical features. Note: Zoom is only necessary if you plan to participate in private meetings or networking opportunities. It is not necessary for the conference sessions, which will be viewable from the virtual platform and the mobile app.

Visit with our sponsors. Unlike in-person conferences and expos, we don’t have an expo hall for you to walk around and meet with vendors. However, we do have a number of sponsors. Each has a dedicated page under the Sponsors tab. Learn more about each sponsor’s products and services, and connect directly with team members via the Request Info button. Sponsors will have a direct link to their Showcase session available on their page.

We are here to help. If you encounter a technical issue and need assistance—such as with logging in, a video player, or system functionality—click the Help button at the bottom of the platform home page and submit your issue. A technical team member will respond to you as quickly as possible.

If you have a nontechnical issue or customer service questions—such as regarding session materials, gamification, or ATD—email [email protected] and a Virtual Conference team member will respond to you as quickly as possible.

Share your ATD Virtual Conference experience on social media. #ATDVirtualConference