ISN Tips for Presenters

LET THERE BE LIGHT​

Illuminate your space adequately to ensure ​you’re the star of the show. ​

One of the main points of having a webinar is to be seen by the audience. A high-quality picture gives your presentation more eye appeal and projects a professional image. You can take steps to make things look good. ​

Lighting is the key to making a good impression. ​

If too dark, you’ll look menacing; too bright, and you’ll look goofy. ​

Make sure the light come from your front or sides.​

CAMERA CHARM​

Position your camera right for the best angles; ​your audience wants a clear view.​

Place your webcam at eye level on the same screen you use to view the webinar. Don’t put the camera angle too high or too low; you want to look directly at it. If you’re running your webinar on a laptop using the built-in webcam, place your device on a laptop stand or box at eye level.​

MIC CHECK, 1-2

A clear picture is only a half of success. ​The other half is the sound quality.​

Before you start your webinar, make sure your microphone picks up the right amount of sound. If it picks up too much, it may cause squeaks, echo, and distortions. If it doesn’t pick up enough, your audience won’t hear you.​

Configure your audio settings in advance on your laptop (or another device) and the webinar room. Check that the microphone you want to use is selected in the audio setting of your webinar software.​

And make sure it’s turned on.​

BACKDROPS THAT WOW

Curate a background that’s both professional and visually appealing.

Close windows and doors and turn off air conditioners to avoid distracting sounds picked up by your microphone. In a home office, take the dog outside, put the baby to bed, and finish your laundry before your live webinar. Silence your devices, including applications you may be running on the device you use for your event.​

CONNECTIVITY COMMAND​

Ensure a stable internet connection ​to avoid unexpected disruptions. ​

Connectivity problems are among the most frustrating technical problems experienced during a webinar. Too many users on a network or poor-quality Internet at remote locations can cause problems ranging from disconnection to time delay between picture and words. If you anticipate issues with your internet connection, consider pre-recording your presentation.​

REHEARSE, REHEARSE, REHEARSE​

Test all technical aspects beforehand to dodge any unforeseen glitches. ​

To reduce the chance of technology failure halfway through your webinar, test everything in advance.​

Use the same equipment, from laptop to cables, that you plan to use for the real thing. Equally important, go through the features of your software and webinar room and make sure you know how to use them.​

You absolutely must practice the entire presentation all the way through.​

INTERACTIVE MAGIC​

Keep your audience hooked with polls, Q&A sessions, and interactive features.​

Encourage audience participation through polls, Q&A sessions, or chat features. ​
Ask questions to stimulate thought and interaction.​

LASER FOCUS​

Maintain a sharp focus on your topic; your audience will follow suit.​

Keep your presentation focused on key points to maintain audience attention. Avoid information overload; prioritize important details. Use clear and simple language, especially if your audience includes individuals with diverse backgrounds.​

VISUAL AIDS BRILLIANCE​

Spice up your presentation with engaging visuals that complement your content.​

Use visuals, such as slides or graphics, to complement your speech and keep viewers interested.​

EXPRESSIVE FACES​

Let your facial expressions mirror your passion and enthusiasm.​

Use facial expressions to convey enthusiasm, sincerity, and engagement. Smile appropriately to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.​

EYES ON THE PRIZE​

Establish virtual eye contact to connect more intimately with your audience.​

Maintain virtual eye contact by looking directly into the camera. This creates a sense of connection with the audience and shows attentiveness.​

GESTURES THAT SPEAK LOUDER​

Use purposeful gestures to emphasize key points.​

Use hand gestures within the webcam frame to emphasize points. Controlled and purposeful gestures can add dynamism to your presentation.​

POSTURE POWER​

Sit or stand confidently; your posture shapes your virtual presence.​​

Sit or stand with good posture to convey confidence and professionalism. Avoid slouching, as it can project disinterest or lack of energy.​

MOVE WITH PURPOSE​

Purposeful movements keep your audience engaged.​

Be mindful of movements within the webcam frame. Excessive or distracting movements can divert attention, so keep gestures deliberate.​

SEAMLESS TRANSITIONS​

Navigate between topics smoothly for a polished presentation.​​

Use body language to signal transitions between topics or segments. ​
This can help maintain a smooth flow in your presentation.​