Five Ways to Make Video Presenting Easier

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Every time someone presents on camera, the experience is unique. But you may notice recurring obstacles that prevent you from concentrating, or enjoying the process.

 

Presenting on camera is something that you can learn to do with confidence and ease. You can learn the skills from books, audio courses, online courses, classes and bootcamps.

 

Here are some challenges people have shared from me, as well as some practical ways to overcome them.

 

1. Getting Started

Making the commitment to practice video presenting is often the biggest hurdle for busy professionals.

 

"I'll do it someday" becomes the ever-present item on your To-Do List.

 

Solution: Start experimenting today. The next time you have a flip cam in your hand, don't shy away. Eventually, try to get on camera for a few minutes every week…if not every day.

 

2. Getting Over It

Chasing after the perfect image is hard work for every presenter.

"I hate my hair…I hate my wrinkles…I should lose 10 pounds." These are the kinds of comments that keep you from standing in front of a camera and making an impact.

 

Solution: It's a common problem--but once you start providing valuable content, your focus shifts. Your viewers are much more concerned about what you are offering than judging your appearance. They will value your ideas, tips and learning points. If you start sharing now, you'll find the rewards of video presenting will out number the concerns about how you look.

 

3. Finding Time To Improve

Your crazy-busy day and urgent demands of your business make it challenging to find time to improve your video presentation skills.

 

"My day is already overbooked and I'm running as fast as I can!"

 

Solution: Schedule time with an expert coach. If I don't work with an expert, I tend not to do it at all. Remember, presenting on video is a critical skill for professional success. Remind yourself why you want to gain confidence in this medium. Make the call.

 

4. Moving On Purpose

Fidgeting, shifting weight, and pacing distract from your professional presence on camera.

 

"I don't know what to do with my hands, feet; how to stand, when to move and when to stand still."

 

Solution: Stand tall and deliver your key point. Move on purpose. Then stop. Deliver your next point. Focus on purposeful gestures, emphasizing key ideas. If you aren't sure how to move or are concerned about body language, take a video presentation class. You'll get the attention and personal feedback to take your skills to the next level.

 

5. Presenting For Today

Your body, speech, and delivery are unlikely to be radically different from one day to the next. Avoid starting off with unrealistic expectations.

 

"I need to be like a talk-show host or professional television star."

 

Solution: Accept that the most important thing about video presenting is this: starting! Realize that your skills will develop gradually, with training, coaching and practice.

 

With steady steps, you can realistically expect improvement. With a steady commitment, you will be able to reap the benefits of video presenting. It's the fastest way to reach more clients and grow your business.