9 Best Practices To Follow When Presenting Remotely
Global connectivity has made it imperative to master ways to reach people regardless of geography. Remote presentations are one way to enable people to connect with an audience worldwide.
For the benefits it offers, remote presentations are gaining traction, and we are in it for the long haul. The blog post will help you polish your virtual communication skills and master the art of delivering online presentations.
So, get ready to learn everything about virtual presentations.
How are Virtual Presentations Different from In-person Presentations?
Whether remote or in-person, both formats let you connect with people with the intent of informing, educating, inspiring, persuading, etc.
The primary difference between the two is the location of the presenter, i.e., the presenter is not physically present in the virtual presentation format. Examples include presenting across platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Webex, etc.
The style of engagement differs as well. As people might be attending from anywhere (including home), disengagement and distractions are easier and more common in remote presentations.
9 Best Practices to Follow to Ace Your Virtual Presentation
The following tips will help you master the remote presentation format.
1. Adequate Knowledge of the Technology and the Platforms
Online presentations require you to have adequate knowledge of the platform and technology you will be using. For instance, the platform you choose should have the features you might need, like chat, screen sharing, annotations, etc.
Have a dry run to ensure that the tools you plan to use (microphone, camera, internet connection, speakers, etc.) work smoothly. Proper knowledge of the tools and technology will help you avoid technical difficulties during the presentation.
For instance, a good internet connection with at least 5 Mbps upload speed, effective video conferencing software like Zoom, good quality microphones (like the Blue Yeti), and a webcam are good base setups for remote presentations.
Also, video conferencing tools with low or negligible connection failure rates should be used to avoid the embarrassment of people being unable to access the presentation.
2. Take Help of Visuals
Your visuals will accentuate your message. Easy, self-explanatory visuals will not only engage people but also save you the trouble of explaining everything.
Visuals like bars, graphs, charts, etc., can help you better illustrate your points, create catchy slides, and engage your audience.
Don’t stuff your slides with unnecessary visuals. The target should be to include visuals that amplify your content and are relevant and easy to understand.
Also, make appropriate use of white space to keep your slides clean and engaging.
3. Taking Care of the Technical Issues
You might encounter unexpected situations even after your best efforts in preparation. It is wise to prepare for unforeseen scenarios, especially in the case of virtual presentations, since you are not physically present with other attendees to engage them.
Have your backup options ready in case your primary tools fail, like keeping a downloaded PDF of your presentation. You can also keep a moderator or contact person handy to assist you in case of a technical glitch.
4. Your Backdrop and Environment Should Be Professional
Your environment should be professional with the least possible distractions. Opt for a well-lit, quiet space and a neutral background. Your surroundings should be neat, tidy, and uncluttered.
Avoid having unnecessary stationery, plants, excessive lighting, flashy backgrounds, etc., that could unnecessarily distract and confuse people.
Close unnecessary taskbars and windows to avoid looking unprofessional when you share your screen with the audience.
5. Attire is Important
It might feel appealing not to give much thought to clothes since the presentation is not in person, and people might not even see the entire attire if you sit and present. But don’t make that mistake.
Like in-person presentations, dressing appropriately is also imperative for a successful online presentation.
Your attire will help you look professional and leave a positive impact on people. Since you will be presenting on camera, don’t wear colors and patterns that appear too bright or distracting.
6. Use Speech to Your Benefit
It is essential that you speak clearly with appropriate voice modulations when you present remotely. Since you present on camera, it might become a little difficult to assess people’s engagement by reading the energy of the room.
So, try to be as conversational and engaging as possible in your speech by taking appropriate breaks, looking at the screen to assess the reactions, and making appropriate changes. Don’t rely on jargon to appear smart.
Give people time to process your message and understand you. Engage with the masses by randomly picking up people and interacting with them (before the presentation). You can also ask them questions during the presentation to understand how you are progressing through the presentation.
7. Cover Up for the Lack of Nonverbal Communication
We know that nonverbal communication is as important as spoken words. Presenters use their body language, facial expressions, and gestures constantly to forge connections with people.
However, since you present remotely, you can’t leverage the full benefits of nonverbal communication for obvious reasons. So, as you plan the presentation, try to make up for this lack by focusing on mannerisms that would be visible in your video frame.
Use your hand and face gestures more effectively, and look in the camera (it should be eye-level) as much as possible. This will give people the impression that you are looking them in the eye. These small considerations will go a long way in how your audience perceives you.
8. Use the Relevant Presentation Template and Software
Just like you have whiteboards, index cards, or just the privilege of in-person interaction in non-virtual presentations - it is professionally designed slide decks to assist you in online presentations.
Presentation software like Prezi, Pitch, Gamma, etc., are a few great user-friendly options. A direct screen share using the software will save you from the hassle of juggling between the presentation and the computer screen all the time.
9. Timings Matter
You should stay within the allotted time period for the presentation and not stretch it for too long. Nothing kills a presentation more than an overstretched one.
Also, avoid scheduling your presentation during late working hours, as people are already tired from the day’s work. The feasible time would be the first half of the day, as it could drive maximum engagement.
However, consult with the required people regarding preferred time slots before sending out the invites.
Wrapping It Up
As you can see, remote presentations are here to stay and have their own pros and cons. They allow you to connect with people anytime, anywhere, barring limitations of time and geography.
The tips we have outlined above will help you overcome the challenges it offers and deliver a truly engaging experience to your audience.
Practice as much as possible to further sharpen your virtual presentation skills, and you will surely be on your way to becoming a great presenter regardless of the format.