So you build trust rather than demolish it
As a business person, presenting to camera is something you’ll most likely need to do. When we make videos at Clips That Sell, they’re often based on either someone presenting directly to the camera, first person to the audience, or in the form of an interview.
The whole point of making a business video is to build trust with your audience. The thing that is most likely to not build trust, is if you come across as stiff or nervous, too muted, or too over the top. Instead, the best bet is try to be as you normally are. Authentic (sorry – it’s a much over-used word).
This video is my attempt at demonstrating how you might prepare to present in front of the camera. I made it to forward to clients prior to filming them.
1 Know what you’re going to say. Be clear on your audience, the purpose of the video and write out some dot points. Stick them below the camera lens and talk to them.
2. Get comfortable in front of the camera. Practice your opening lines, and run through the whole presentation a couple of times. By the third you should be good to go. Chat to the person on the other side of the camera lens, as if you’re in a cafe with them.
3. This is where being perfect is the enemy of the good. Remember, you want to seem normal, not perfect. Perfect won’t build trust because it’s not normal 🙂 Mind you, do try to minimise the ums and ahhs and false starts to sentences (You’ll see I have a few in this video). This is where the practice comes in. Get the energy level right for the subject and have a smile here or there.
Using a Teleprompter
Teleprompters are great when filming larger chunks of dialogue, especially if you do need it to be word perfect. BUT, inexperienced users often look a bit serious as they read, and not very natural. Basically you can tell they’re reading. Be careful to draft the text the same way you talk. don’t get formal or use big words. And then when presenting, maybe try to amp up the level of expressiveness.
Of course every one is different and the things one person needs to do to improve will be different to another. Nothing beats having a coach to watch and guide you. If you don’t have that support, review your recordings yourself, watch someone who does it well, and you’ll see where to improve.
Most people don’t like watching or hearing ourselves, so don’t be too critical. Get a second opinion, be brave, and post.
(Keith at Clips That Sell, helps coach clients to perform well in front of the camera)
