Who would have thought 12 months ago that we would still be sitting in front of screens connecting with people all over the country? But while some have fully embraced the opportunities of intimacy, presenting from our front room in slippers, others are still grappling with the technology and remoteness of it all.
At the ASC we want you to get the best of this opportunity and add to your live presenting skills some additional virtual platform presenting skills. So in this post, Tessa Morton talks us through a few quick do’s and don’ts.
So for starters, some really important do’s:
Do always get used to the functions and how the zoom app works on your phone, iPad, or computer before you join a meeting, there are many online tutorials or you mayhave a family member who can help with this.
Do sit in a seat that allows you to sit up straight with your chin parallel to the floor and lighting coming from in front of you not behind. Good posture and lighting up your features really help your audience engage with you.
Do place your screen on a flat surface at eye level about an arm’s length away from your body.
Do make eye contact with the group. Combine looking directly down the camera of your computer with looking at the people in the windows. The first is so the audience feel connected, the second is so that you feel connected.
Do breathe deeply in and out before you start your talk and at the end of your sentences and take a good look around the virtual windows. This gives you a nice pause but also manages any nerves you are feeling.
And the don’ts:
Don’t expect it to feel the same as in the live space. Some feel more nervous, some feel less nervous.
Don’t forget to connect with the audience, it is easy to feel that no one is listening as it’s hard to read the room and get the feedback from reactions or facial expressions that you would normally get.
Don’t let the technology be an excuse for not having a good time. There is more to contend with than just walking up to the lectern. But you can practise on Zoom and film yourself in advance of the talk which is very useful to not only give yourself a rehearsal but also see what is working and what needs a little work.
Even if you are not actively participating, you can have a stronger impact and raise the energy of the group if you think about your own energy, position, posture, and the responses you give to the speakers. Even on mute, you can be an important part of the dynamic of the meeting.
GOOD LUCK AND KEEP CONNECTING
Tessa Morton is an active member of Leamington ASC and has been a coach for over 30 years supporting professionals with their communication skills and confidence. You can follow her on Linkedin if you want to hear more tips to build your confidence on virtual platforms.
Thank you for this posting. The ideas of practising and recording the practice are very useful. The placing of notes is critical. That too needs practising. Just ensure that if you do place them on either side of the camera you don’t cover the camera and that you leave enough space to see yourself on the screen.