Virtual presenting is not just in-person presenting with a camera. There are things that you can and should control about the environment that you present to the world. A comprehensive Public Speaking Course will advise you about camera framing, lighting, backgrounds, and technology optimization.
The Big Picture
The first thing to consider is the positioning of your camera. Ensure your camera is on eye level to avoid any “up the nose” shots.
Your Public Speaking Course will emphasize the importance of adjusting your camera so that the top edge of the framing almost touches the top of your hair. This will give you enough room to include some of your gestures and body language.
In Your Best Light
Your front lighting is extremely important. It is the lighting that helps you to show up. Don’t rely on the natural light from windows. Weather can change very quickly and suddenly throw you into darkness. Your Public Speaking Course will review the various options, i.e. selfie lights, table lamps, photography lighting, or clip on LED’s.
An Open Invitation
Your background should be an invitation to your world. Take a moment to investigate what your listeners see behind you. Think about the message that a blank wall might be sending. Bookcases are ideal, and so is positioning yourself in a corner. It will create lines that open up to the camera.
You must think of your virtual background as a canvas in your Public Speaking Course. Don’t be afraid to add a splash of color here and there. Attention to your background will make you more interesting and memorable.
Working the Tech
If you’re using an online meeting app for the first time, you must go into the preferences and give the app permission to access your camera and microphone. If you will be sharing slides, open them on your desktop so you can quickly access them when it’s time to screen share.
Engagement Control
The lag time is one of the biggest obstacles to overcome when presenting virtually. The silence after asking your listeners a question can erode your confidence. Prepare yourself to ask any question a minimum of three times as you wait for your listeners to think about their response, unmute, and then decide that they can reply. Give them the time they need to follow through on these steps. Make sure you rephrase the question each time you repeat it, adding more of the texture and context that sparks resonance.
Some of these virtual presenting tips can be taken care of in your initial setup. Some have to be adjusted on the fly in real-time. Your Public Speaking Course is your resource for making your virtual environment one where you can thrive.