Virtual Speaking Tips

Virtual Speaker Coaching Rehearsal

By: Lauren Johnson

As much as we are going back to an in-person gathering world, there is still a need for virtual events, and we believe this will stand true throughout the next year and beyond. We LOVE a good virtual event, fully remote, partially remote...however it needs to be, we are ALL IN to deliver a great experience and a seamless execution for the attendees.

As this need to connect virtually continues, we want to be sure that speakers connect with their audience and shine through the screen. Here are some of our favorite tips for preparing virtual speakers:

• Start with a clean and professional background. We certainly love seeing different areas of your home but it can distract viewers from your message. Ensure your background is simple, tidy, and shows a little bit of your personality or brand.

• Avoid windows and lights being behind you. This will wash out your face on screen and we want to see YOU. The best lighting is in front of your webcam...whether it is natural light or your own lighting.

• Use headphones or a microphone when possible for a better audio output...we want to hear you too!

• Test, test, test - Never skip the rehearsal! We want to be sure your connection works with ours - it's quick and painless and 100% worth it when we get to showtime.

• Check your WiFi...and then check it again ;). If you have a hardline, be sure to use it - we don't want to lose your connection! (Another reason to never miss a rehearsal).

• Look at the camera when speaking and listen to other participants. This creates a solid connection with the audience through the screen and shows your engagement to the event.

• Speak clearly while looking at the camera. Try to avoid moving around too much as it will affect your mic placement and the audio we hear on our end.

If you have an upcoming virtual speaking engagement, test out a few areas with a great background that works for you and see how it looks on your camera. When you show up to a rehearsal, you will be sure to impress.

Happy speaking!