How do you get the spark back? It’s the perennial question when it comes to relationships. But the particular relationship I’m being asked a lot about right now is the relationship with those pesky virtual meetings. That “broadcast” where you have a large audience listening in, whether you are part of a bigger meeting or the main event.
They aren’t going anywhere, are they, those broadcasts? Perhaps months ago we had misty visions of getting back together in a draughty venue somewhere, takeaway coffee in hand, lanyard on neck…
But it’s dawning on all of us that even as we move from pandemic to endemic those big internal meetings may not ever be held regularly in the room again. Why make 400 people lose a day to travelling when you can fit it into an hour’s virtual call and give them their time back? Why use all of that carbon to get them there when you can do it via the magic of video conference?
And so the question is how to make those messages feel as energising as they did when you stand up in front of a room of warm humans. The problem is that though enthusiasm is imperative to keep your audience upbeat, maintain your own momentum and succeed in your vision, it’s easier said than done. Slumping at your desk wiped out after a day of back to back meetings does not for inspiring broadcasts make.
So, how do you get the spark back? Simple. Don’t do the broadcast from the same desk you email from. It’s a big buzz kill. Stage it instead – find somewhere that feels broadcast worthy.
Here are some simple ways to stage your speaking when broadcasting a message WFH or from the office.
Be creative about where you speak from (aka the “psycho-geography). Be your own location scout in your home or office. Find a great spot where you can broadcast from with either a beautiful or a simple backdrop (ideally a real one as it builds trust) for the audience.
Face a window if you can because peripheral vision really helps your energy and confidence.
Get the lighting right either naturally via the window or with a ring light or soft box, so you feel energised and the audience can see you clearly.
Make sure you have a good microphone. Pro broadcasters will tell you the right mic is the greatest gift to your audience’s engagement because it makes you appealing to listen to. And it also professionalises the event in your mind – good for your focus and energy.
Then stand. Set up the laptop so you can stand and the camera is at eye level. Whether you invest in a laptop stand or repurpose an ironing board, this one’s the game-changer. Standing is such a simple way to get your mojo back just as it did when you stood in front of those big audiences prior to March 2020. You stand tall, you feel grounded and confident and your gesture and voice become more expressive.
Test these straightforward tips and notice how your speaking sparks again. Your audience will thank you.
I shared a short video about this earlier in the week which you can watch by clicking on the link below.
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