A Guide to Presenting Virtually, Like a Pro!

Since COVID-19 has forced us to work, learn and socialise in new ways, we are becoming more and more familiar with the world of virtual events and the opportunities of reaching a much wider, global audience.

Now, if you are presenting on such a large stage, you want to ensure you look and sound your best, technically speaking of course!

Check out some of our top tips below that might help you deliver a seamless virtual presentation….

  1. Request a test

It’s a good idea to request a test from the event organisers so that you are familiar with the platform that will be used as well as the strength and speed of your internet connection. This is particularly important if you will be presenting live. It also provides you with an opportunity to understand the support mechanisms in place, should you run into any issues during your live presentation. 

  1. What’s going on behind you?

Ahead of your planned testing, pick a quiet and professional looking room with no background noise. You will want to avoid messy or cluttered rooms as well as kitchens or bathrooms. Once your testing is done, you can make adjustments to your backdrop as necessary.

  1. Dress for the occasion

Depending on the length of your participation, sit or stand comfortably with good posture and maintain the ambiance of the event by dressing for the occasion. Avoid garments with busy prints or colours that might clash with your backdrop. 

  1. Get the angle right

Avoid bad camera angles by adjusting your camera / webcam so that it is fixed on a stand or propped up at eye level. If you are submitting a pre-recorded segment using your smartphone, be sure to turn the phone so that it is horizontal, not vertical and avoid holding the phone in your hand when recording.

  1. Don’t forget lighting

If you are presenting beside a window, be sure to think about the length of your presentation and the time of day you will be going live. Will the sun set during your participation? If so, your setting may become dark. If you are not able to sit facing a window, consider using a lamp that is positioned in front of you and not behind you.

  1. Going Live

When you go live, count down from three before you begin speaking. Avoid looking at the video screen or the picture of yourself on-screen, instead focus on the camera as if you are having a conversation with someone in the room. 

  1. Rehearse

Much like a play or any other presentation, it helps to practice ahead of time to get comfortable with delivering your message virtually. It also gives you an opportunity to explore ways to engage your global, virtual audience.

If you need help producing a virtual event, send us an email to discuss your requirements in detail.

Ruby Sohi is founder and lead event planner at Royal Blue Events Management. She has extensive experience in event production and marketing. Actively involved in the community, she has served as a board member for American Marketing Association (Toronto) as VP of Programming & Events and International Live Event Association (Toronto) as VP of Marketing & Communications. Ruby has delivered events across Canada and is experienced in producing all types of events including virtual and hybrid formats. Read her full bio here.