“Remote work is the future of the work” — Alexis Ohanian, Reddit
We can’t help but agree with Alexis here. Indeed, work all over the world is happening remotely. Meetings, conferences, brainstorming sessions, reviews, updates, PTA, school orientation, catch up with friends, discussions among family… has moved to online conferencing tools like Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, etc.
There is no need to panic. Remote presentations are not so different from the regular ones. And there is an umpteen number of tools available that can help you make an impactful presentation even when you are presenting your session remotely.
One of the first basic things that you need for a good presentation is a good computer that does not hang or restart it the middle of a presentation, a good microphone, and a reliable system with good audio and video interface. A computer that hangs in the middle of a presentation is no-show. Your audience can’t wait interminably for you to log in, connect, and resume the show. Reliable systems (if not the best) are a must and robust internet connection is essential.
Here are a few tips that can help you -
1. Doing a test run
This is a must for all types of presentation, remote or otherwise. This has become all the more important today because you know murphy’s law is working overtime this year. Your microphones might fail, your Bluetooth speakers might not connect, your mac might think that it might be the perfect time to update the software right in the middle of your presentation or your presenting software might be ready for an upgrade….
Doing a test run will help you get your cues right. It will also give you a fluid grace that would allow you to smoothly move through the session without fumbling.
2. Remove Distractions
Nothing can be more distracting than a misplaced calendar or a background that shows stuff that you would not display to the public during normal times. An overflowing laundry basket, an unmade bed, a chaotic kitchen, or even a sleeping companion in the background are not just stuff that distracts people from what you are saying but also becomes conversation starters and viral videos.
Now, how do you remove distractions? Zoom came up with a great idea by allowing you to use virtual backgrounds which gives you the option to disguise your space.
Those who are not using zoom or prefer not to use it can clear a space with a wall behind. Ensure that light falls on your face while you are presenting.
3. Privacy
Yes… we have laughed at the BBC interview of Professor Robert Kelly when his children intruded rather cutely and his hassled wife skidding into the room to take them away.
Source: BBC News
What about that presenter whose husband walked in the background with barely any clothes on….
Yes, these viral videos teach one important thing. Privacy is a must. Kids, pets, better half, companions, obnoxious family members are a part and parcel our life but they need not become a part of your presentation and become conversation starters.
But if they intrude, don’t become flustered. Usher them out and continue with your presentation.
4. Listen to your audience
One of the many things that are hard to factor within a remote presentation is to tune into what your audience is thinking or feeling.
Don’t let your presentation be one long monotone. Incorporate polls, surveys, and feedback within it and know what your audience is thinking about.
5. A technical backup plan
Lastly, murphy’s law is on overdrive this year. The evidence is all over us. Always have a technical back up. An extra laptop with a good microphone would be a good idea. Just make sure you have all your meeting links, presentations, and files needed.
One of the first basic things that you need for a good presentation is a good computer that does not hang or restart it the middle of a presentation, a good microphone, and a reliable system with good audio and video interface. A computer that hangs in the middle of a presentation is no-show. Your audience can’t wait interminably for you to log in, connect, and resume the show. Reliable systems (if not the best) are a must and robust internet connection is essential.
Audiencly is a great option that helps to know what your viewers are thinking and its interactive tools can help tweak your presentation during a live session, helping you make it memorable and impactful.
We believe that remote presentation might just be the thing that we will ace especially during this lockdown and for the foreseeable future, this might be the only way to reach out to your colleagues, clients, and viewers. Click here to try Audiencly for free.
Originally published at https://audiencly.io.
