COVID has thrown a monkey wrench in many of our plans. From virtual weddings to virtual conferences, we have had to make adjustments never thought possible. But this pivot isn’t all bad. There are more opportunities now than ever to approach the speakers’ circuit from the comfort of your home.
So how can you upgrade your speaker skills and share your expertise from the virtual stage? Here are 5 tips to get speaker ready virtually.
- Have a signature topics/talk
Some things never change. It is still important to pick a topic that you already know and love. If you need to present a new subject, perform thorough research. Gather facts, statistics, interesting anecdotes, and quotes. Nail your signature talk(s).
- Know your audience
Sometimes, engaging with a virtual audience can be difficult. If possible, identify the background and size of the group you’ll be addressing. Find out how well informed they are about the material you’ll be presenting. You don’t want to talk over their heads, but you don’t want to talk down to them either. It’s also helpful to know their average age and other characteristics. Remember to encourage engagement in the chat or by asking for a visible cue like a thumbs up.
- Practice
Whether virtual or not, your speaking skills will improve with practice. Rehearse aloud. Take advantage of opportunities at work to get more experience or join an organization like your local chapter of Toastmasters. They’re a nonprofit entity specifically designed for members to give each other friendly advice and support on public speaking.
- Tell stories
Interesting stories make any topic more entertaining and memorable. Cite your personal experience or anecdotes about others. Vivid examples work wonders in bringing your message to life.
- Network
Get the full value out of your speaking engagement by asking for feedback. Have evaluation forms ready for audience members to review via email. Review them for constructive criticism that you can use to sharpen your performance. Use a visual aid to display your contact information and website.
Public speaking is a valuable tool for many business and social gatherings. Improve your presentation skills so you can effectively share the benefits of your experience and knowledge with your audience.
Thank you for reading this blog post #MedicalMoguls. If you want to chat with me 1-on-1, schedule a FREE appointment here www.MedicalMoguls.com/Freedom. Until next time, it’s Dr. Drai.
