In these pandemic times, most office work has shifted online. Giving presentations to demonstrate your work and its progress is an integral part of the activity of any organization. In days when you need to give presentations online, it is vital to be able to provide them as effectively and confidently as you would if they were being given in person. Here are nineteen tips to help you give the best video presentation possible.
- Camera: Most cameras that you will use for your online presence, especially if it is a live presentation, should be of a high enough quality to suit your purpose. Most mobile phone and laptop cameras, as well as wired cameras, are of decent quality and will be able to transmit your video appropriately.
- Height: The height of the camera is something most users will generally go wrong with. Never place the camera too low or too high. The best place for your camera height-wise is in front of the center of your face. This allows your viewer to see you just the way that they would in person.
- Microphone: The quality of your microphone is key to making an effective presentation. Ideally, you should choose a portable or lapel pin microphone that you can attach to your shirt or hold In your hand, for best sound quality. The in-built microphone of your laptop will not provide the same sound as a specialized one.
- Lighting: Lighting is another important consideration in online video presentations. Always have a light in front of you. Avoid having lights either behind you and above your head. This might lead to your face being too dark when your video is transmitted to the other side.
- Ambient Noise: Ambient noise is among the most common sources of disturbance when giving an online presentation. To prevent ambient noise, it is essential to stop or reduce all the sources of noise in the surroundings of where you are giving the presentation. This means closing doors and windows, and slowing down the fan.
- Framing: The framing is generally an understated part of your video. Your position must not be at the center of the frame. It is usually recommended that you position yourself slightly left or right of the center.
- Background: Most people who give online presentations will make the mistake of having a plain wall behind them. A plain wall generally looks very dull and will seldom suit your presentation. You should not be afraid of showing the natural background of your room. Add a plant or paintings or even a nice poster to give an edge to your surroundings.
- Length: Keep the length of the presentation short. If there is a textual aid you are using, in the form of a slideshow, make sure not to repeat what is already there in the text. Keep it only as long as you would want to listen to someone else.
- Topic: It is important to focus on the topic of the presentation and not beat around the bush a lot. Get straight to the point and keep the entire presentation focused on the core idea.
- Structure: Just as in writing, in speaking as well, the structure of what you say matter. In general, your speech must have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. A speech that lacks structure is construed as aimless, and the audience will take nothing away from it.
- Wording: When delivering a presentation, there is no need to include words that the audience is not likely to understand. It is best recommended to keep the wording of your presentation simple and focus to a greater extent on the delivery and other aspects.
- Superficiality: When delivering an important presentation, you mustn’t be overly superficial or fake in front of your audience. It is recommended that you give the presentation in a conversational tone. Above all, you must be yourself during the presentation.
- Talking to Camera: Do not look at the screen while giving the presentation. If you are looking at the camera when you are giving the presentation, the viewers will feel you are looking at them, which feels much more interactive.
- Clothing: What you wear during a presentation can amplify or destroy the impact of the presentation. Always wear formals to the presentation; informal wear will similarly prevent the presentation from having a formal effect. Do not wear heavy jewelry or very bright colors as it can lead to distractions.
- Posture: Just as in person, it is important to be able to maintain a good posture when you are delivering a presentation online. Sit up straight in front of the camera and speak confidently.
- Hands: Hands help you deliver your message in a much better way and also show that you are interested in the subject. However, excessive usage of your hands in an online presence must be avoided.
- Practice: It is crucial to practice what you are going to say before you give the presentation. Regardless of how accustomed a presenter you are, practice and preparation are important for everyone.
- Teleprompter: People often feel shy about using a teleprompter, especially if they are experienced presenters. However, teleprompters are now available as apps in mobile phones, and anybody can hence own and use a teleprompter. They aid in giving a crisp and structured presentation.
- Rating: When you practice your presentation, always rate yourself on different parameters. You can also ask those around you to evaluate you, as that gives you a good idea of how effective your presentation is.
Conclusion
These nineteen tips will effectively help you deliver an impactful presentation in front of any audience, whether that of strangers or your employers. So set up your laptop and camera, use an invitation maker to send invites to your presentation, and get speaking!
