Presenting online
Online audiences are one click away from distraction. Shorter segments, frequent interaction and good technical set-up keep virtual presentations engaging.
Key ideas
- Look at the camera to create eye contact.
- Change something every few minutes to hold attention.
- Technical preparation is part of the presentation.
Step by step
- 1
Set the camera at eye level with good light in front of you.
- 2
Test audio, screen sharing and slides beforehand.
- 3
Plan an interaction every five minutes: a question, poll or chat prompt.
- 4
Look into the camera when delivering key points.
Example
A trainer moves from a sixty-minute lecture to four fifteen-minute segments, each ending with a chat question. Participation and post-session scores rise.
Your drill
Plan your next online session with an interaction every five minutes and rehearse your key points while looking at the camera.
Common mistakes
- Reading slides while looking at your own screen.
- Talking for long stretches without interaction.
Check yourself
Where should you look to create eye contact online?
Show the answer
Into the camera, especially when delivering key points.
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