Panelists cannot log in any earlier than scheduled time

[Johanna3]

Hi, we always like to test the connections before the webinar stars. But the panelists cannot log in any earlier than the scheduled time, at the same time the attendees start logging in as well. Only the host seem to be able to log in earlier. Is there a way to the panelists could log in an hour/30 minutes before the scheduled time?

Are we missing something here? Thank you in advance!

[Rupert]

Hi @Johanna3 

Yes. The Host can start a Practice Session, but this does mean the Panelists will need to be registered and invited in advance - and they will need to join with their panelist join link.

You could also run a whole separate Meeting prior to your Webinar to do any pre-checks.

Watch out for the new Backstage feature coming soon too, though.

[BoomGoesTheDrum]

We ran rehearsals with no problems but today, event day, some of our panelists are having trouble connecting to Zoom webinar. They get a message that says "the host needs to start the meeting". The webinar has not been changed/edited since it was originally scheduled.