10 Tips for Speaking at a Virtual Event
We live in a world where we have to be our own tech support, regardless of skill or ability. No matter the type of virtual event, platform (Zoom, WebEx Google Hangouts), or messaging, you need to make sure you have a professional virtual environment before going live. Videoconferencing is a popular tool to get together during this pandemic, so it’s important to know the best ways to be a professional attendee. Here are some best practices to streamline your desktop to minimize issues for your virtual interview, meeting, presentation, or event.
Preparing for the Virtual Event
Battery Life
If using a laptop, make sure it is charging while the event is happening, or fully charged right before the event.
Avoiding Technical Issues
Join any event at least 15 minutes early to ensure that your audio is clear and the internet is stable. Also make sure to have the cell phone of the event organizer so you can get in touch if you have any streaming issues.
Look Your Best
Before starting the event, make sure you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing, hair placement, makeup, etc. Make sure to check your camera before starting the event. You can do this by going into Zoom settings. Make sure you have decent lighting - your light should be in front of you, not from the back.
Is This Thing On?
Check audio levels before the event. You can do this by going into your Zoom settings before the event. When possible, use headphones with a microphone to increase sound clarity and quality.
Going Live
Be Efficient with Screen Organization
Don’t have too many tabs open. If you get lost in your tabs, it may be challenging to find your way back to the meeting. Too many open websites/applications can also cause your WiFi to slow down.
Write a Script
If you are giving prepared remarks, write them down and practice them aloud before the event. You could even start an empty Zoom meeting to make sure your technology works. Use a teleprompter app to avoid having to memorize your remarks and reduce the appearance of reading. We recommend practice with the app to ensure that you can smoothly operate it during the event. Some options include Cueprompter and Teleprompter Mirror. Have the teleprompter app open on one side of your screen. That way, you can also see the chat box, your video, and other speakers without having to navigate between windows.
Video
The main goal of events is to spread your message, so take time to reduce any distractions for your viewers so that they are focused on what you are saying.
Background
Make sure there isn’t anything visually distracting in your background. If possible, close your door to block out sound and people walking past the camera.
Lighting
Try to have light face you, not coming from behind you. You can achieve this by facing a window or placing a lamp in front of you. Try to face your camera at or slightly above your eye level.
Audio
Audio clarity and cues are essential in this virtual space. Mute yourself if you’re not speaking. Staying on mute will reduce the likelihood of unwelcomed background noise, and will signal to other speakers that you are done speaking. See what is in your area as well. If there are other people in the room/building, ask them to be quiet. Also, you may not realize that your fan or AC creates a lot of white noise - feel out the space.
Get Support for Your Event
Frontwood Strategies wants you to do your absolute best. We’re always here to help you prepare, whether that’s listening to a speech, providing edits, checking your audio levels, giving suggestions on camera angles, or providing public speaking tips.
Want to learn more about Frontwood Strategies’ media preparation and campaign assistance? Go to www.frontwoodstrategies.com to learn more or email us to learn more at info@frontwoodstrategies.com
Download a free checklist on how to prepare and speak at a virtual event by clicking here.