Test out your Tech.
With so many options for virtual events, it’s important that you understand and know the options and any limitations of your tech platform you’re using. Then if someone asks for a screen share of a lower third banner that needs to be used, you know what to do rather than look like you’re fumbling on something. I can’t believe how many broadcasts I have been on or watched where I hear people say – How do I do that, or Where is the button for sharing?
What to wear.
Everybody has a unique style in clothing – we get it, but there are some things that stand out too much and distract your audience, wrongly mixed colors, high patterns, etc. Think about how the lighting reacts, especially if you’re wearing baseball caps or hats.
What location are you videoing from?
Ideally, everyone would love a studio available, but practically that’s usually not an option. Here are some ideas that can help create that right space.
Choose somewhere that is quiet and no background noise. Lighting is important and a ring light or videos lights are not just beneficial, but essential to get that professional look. Think about what is the background. If possible choose a background that is part of your brand, logo, screen, etc.
Think about is there a possibility of a child, partner casually walking behind you on the way to the kitchen or another room in the house. I always remember seeing a great video interview on BBC television where the news anchor was asking a Professor Robert Kelly at home what the latest news on South Korea was and his 4 year old, opened the door behind him and then the toddler and a baby in crawled into view. Seconds later a very panicked mom rushed into the room to get the kids but the damage was done. The seriousness of his expertise was forgotten as we all chuckled about the cute kids being on live TV and the mom’s sheer panic. So yes think about the background carefully.
What Internet service are you using?
Whenever possible hardwire into a network as this has the least possibility of dropping out. WiFi is only as good as the carrier strength and location can make a huge difference. No-one wants to keep saying or hearing – you’re frozen can you repeat that, or worse can you see me?
Connect with your Audience.
Yes, we understand that you are the presenter or the host, but make sure that you let others interact and if you have the opportunity for questions make sure that their video feed is able to be seen also unless you’re doing questions form the chat text on the side of course.
Try and keep as many distractions to a minimum. If your eyes are constantly looking off-screen, people wonder what is happening and it sometimes comes over that you’re not interested in what others are saying.
Steve Brown
Resource Group Media
