Virtual Presentation Back Up Plans Are A Must
What could possibly go wrong?
Lately, I have been delivering a fair number on online presentations – from online trainings to webinars. And I am learning much along the way. Yes, delivering online is a bit different than delivering a presentation to a live audience in a myriad of ways. Seriously, what could possibly go wrong? The following is based on personal experiences – it pays to be prepared. Have back up plans ready to go.
1. You have spotty internet or Wi-Fi connectivity. I am no tech guru, and with so many people either in your household or in your neighborhood working online, this is a possibility. You may consider connecting directly into your router rather than connecting through Wi-Fi. Another option is to purchase and install Wi-Fi boosters to ensure you have enough Wi-Fi coverage in your location from where you will be delivering your presentation. Also, be sure to reboot your computer well in advance of your presentation, close all programs that are running in the background, and clear your caches and cookies.
2. You lose your audio, or your audio sounds muffled or gargled. There could be a problem with your headset, and a back-up headset would be helpful. Another option is to use your mobile phone for your audio. Many online platforms allow for call-in participants. Always make sure your mobile phone is charged before you deliver your presentation. This back up plan is critical.
3. Overwhelm with too much to do during your presentation. Invite a colleague or pay a virtual assistant to help. If you are presenting to a large group, it is worth it to have someone to help monitor the chat and Q & A during your presentation. They can also assist if you do experience any technical glitches.
4. Your slide deck won’t advance. See #1 and #3. If you are not hosting your own event, in most cases, your hosting moderator can assist you.
5. Always, always, always have a back-up plan. These are just some of the things that can go awry, and a contingency plan is well worth thinking through well before your event occurs.
Whatever the case, the show must go on! In the event that a glitch does happen, don’t get hung up on what has gone wrong – learn from the experience and change your game plan for the next opportunity. Virtual presentations are here to stay, and we need to learn how to master them in order to become successful with them. Back up plans will enable you to be less stressed and more focused.