Video conferences and meetings are undoubtedly going to form the 'new normal' of business operations. We've put together four useful tips to consider before presenting on a video call to clients or colleagues.
1 Know your venue
There are a number of video conferencing platforms that have risen to prominence in the last few years including Zoom, Google Hangouts and Microsoft Teams. Before a virtual presentation, you should be completely familiar with the software you are using.
From media and screen sharing to accommodating for large and small meetings, you will leave yourself open to mistakes if you do not learn the capabilities and limitations of your chosen programme.
2 Welcome clients into your virtual office
It is important to treat your virtual meeting environment the same as you would treat your physical working environment.
While you may be in your living room, bedroom or any other communal area, maintaining a professional presence is key.
As well as ensuring your background is clean, tidy and free from any distractions, things like lighting and audio are also important to ensure that your audience can clearly see your facial expressions and hear the points you are making.
3 Managing the meeting
A traditional presentation held in-person will typically be interactive and encourage participation from the audience.
With video calls, there is more effort required to involve audience members and communicate with them during the meeting.
Things like sharing documents and files and managing transitions and time effectively will all help to create a successful virtual presentation.
4 Pitching in a virtual environment
Leaving a good impression during a video call is just as important as presenting in a physical meeting. A confident speaker on a virtual call should be able to achieve the following:
- Building trust with the audience
- Leave a positive lasting impression
- Follow the Four-Level Listening Model
- Maximise impact with the five senses
- Present with impact.
We are currently offering 90-minute sessions with forum theatre activities to help build the crucial skills needed to pitch and present online.
These courses are designed to be engaging and impactful, and participants come away with practical tools that they can apply immediately.