Most of the public speaking tips we have discussed as far as putting together an in-person presentation and handling questions also apply when you are speaking on a video call or webinar. For instance, you should stay attentive when others are speaking, as mentioned in this post, and still dress the part (see here).
There are some differences, though, and you should be aware of them so you can be as effective as possible.
The main thing that you will have to learn is to talk to the camera, not to the screen. The camera should be at eye level and set up about an arm’s length away. If the camera is at eye level it will be easier for you to focus on it.
It will feel unnatural to look at the camera rather than the people on the screen, but actually that is the only way for you to make eye contact with your audience. Remember, eye contact is important to build trust.
Zoom offers an easy way to practice. Sign up for an account (you can get a free one) then set up a meeting for yourself. Make sure you pick the option saying you want the meeting to be recorded.
Start the meeting and speak into the camera. This is just practice so don’t think about what you are saying. After a few minutes, end the meeting. You should get a pop-up saying that the meeting is being recorded. Then you will be asked where you want it saved.
Save it, and then replay it. Watch your eyes. Are you looking at the camera? Or the screen?
Practice until looking at the camera becomes normal for you.
It may take a while, and there will be times on calls where you may forget to look at the camera. But if you can master this one technique you will be far ahead of many people.
Professional Background
Now go back to one of your practice videos and look at what is behind you. Does it look professional? It’s OK to have one or two personal items in view, but the background should be neat enough that it enhances your image as a professional. If it isn’t, make it tidy.
Or use a virtual background if you are tech-savvy enough and you want to keep your personal life private. If you do use a virtual background, make it something that looks professional.
In fact, I recommended to one client that she use her company’s logo for the background to reinforce her position as the company’s authority on compliance. She later told me that even if seeing the logo behind her didn’t make a difference to her co-workers, she continued to use it because it reminded her that she was in a position of power and helped her feel more confident.
During Covid, I was on a conference call with a CEO of a small company. She was in her home office, but you wouldn’t know it except for the fact that she told us. She was dressed in the same type of power suit that she wore to headquarters, and her home office was an immaculate reproduction of a C-suite—at least the portion that was on camera. She projected power and confidence, and when she spoke it was clear who was the boss.
Stand Up
If you have a lot of nervous energy, it may be better for you to stand up during calls. You can invest in a standing desk, or place your laptop on a level surface so the camera is at eye level.
You may feel more comfortable doing a presentation while standing. Try it once or twice to see if you feel more comfortable. If not, forget it. Remember, as with most tips we have gone over, if you find they are not helpful after giving them an earnest try you don’t have to do them.
Video calls are becoming increasingly common in today’s workplace, so if you are able to master them you will be far ahead of many of your co-workers. It is definitely worth doing some practice recordings to build your eye contact and make sure your presentation is as strong as possible.
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