Working from Home more during the recent months due to the global pandemic has become the new normal or reinforcement for many of us who have been working from a home over the last few years. This has led to an increase in virtual interaction in our daily working lives and conducting business.

This trend has changed the way we interact with our colleagues and client stakeholders and will continue to affect the way we interact in business. As a result, it will be more likely that many events that traditionally would have been face-to-face events will go online for example keynote presentations, events, networking, etc. – the show must go on. It is really important that as a speaker, you need to set yourself up for success on the virtual stage and engage with the world in a different way.

Here are some tips and practices to help you create a virtual presentation with impact and connect with your online audience.

1. Strong and good internet connection is a must.

Many virtual events with an unstable internet connection can affect both the audio and visual quality as well as the overall attendee experience. Thus, hardwiring your internet connection to avoid any such issues. Use an ethernet switch (this varies based on the type of computer you are using) as well as an ethernet cable. Do a google search to find the exact how-to based on your specific computer model.

2. Good sound and best visual.

“People will forgive bad video, but if they cannot hear you, they will leave.”

Best Visual – Your camera is the foundation of your digital image. Your built-in laptop camera is convenient as well as you can use a regular HD webcam. Begin with a smile and let your facial expression move naturally. Keep your face animated in a natural way. You will enhance your message by doing the same gestures you would in an in-person presentation. Allow yourself to gesture naturally.

Best sound – Keep in mind that while you speak a few inches from your microphone, the people on the other end might be sitting several feet from the speaker and you should enunciate clearly. No need to yell, slow your articulating speed to around 90% of normal, and give plenty of pauses for your audience to digest your message and always engage with your audiences.

3. Have good lighting and the right background.

Always put yourself in the best light. Ideally, your light source should be in front of you, or just off to the side, and not at the back as this will cause very undesirable results: bear in mind it’s a formal presentation, not scary stories that you want to share.

4. Dress professionally.

Get dressed (no Spider-man outfit) rather than being in pyjamas. Choose attire that you would wear if you were attending an in-person conference and will show that you respect your audience time as well yours. So, dress up from head to toe.

5. Be prepared and deliver content.

What is the biggest difference between an in-person presentation and a remote one? In terms of delivery, not a lot. If you deliver your presentation as if there is an audience in front of you, you’ll increase your chances of effectively delivering your message.

“Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” – Make sure you have someone to help you out during the presentation and they know how the subject content works, so they can keep an eye on questions, comments, and technical issues while you focus on your content. Or if you have any issues during the presentation, he/she will be a saver. Now, sit up straight, plant your feet, take a breath, smile, and ace your remote presentation.

Working from Home and virtual meetings have become a part of many people’s ‘new normal. So, represent yourself in the best way possible, especially when you are in a virtual meeting with your customers and prospects.

Lights, Camera, Action – Now, your turn to ace your Virtual Presentation. We would like to hear your stories if this article has helped you.