a remote presentation

Remote presentations: The only guide you’ll ever need.

Yousef "yoyo" abu ghaidah.

• March 31, 2020

Remote presentations have become quite the trend in today’s corporate world. Heck, there are reports that state 4 out of 5 corporate presentations are now delivered completely remotely .

That’s incredible!

It’s clear how today’s technology brought some major conveniences in the way we do business. I mean, why would I spend hours of my time commuting to a location to give a 30-minute presentation when I can do the same thing in the comfort of my own home?

But like all convenient things in life, people take them for granted.

Listen, remote presentations aren’t an excuse to be sloppy. If you’re delivering a remote presentation, then you have to work extra hard to make sure your session’s a success.

Because remote presentations make it easy to lose the one thing that every presentation so desperately needs to be successful: a nurtured human connection.

Okay, I know I sound like a pretentious spiritual guru when I say this, but it’s true.

A key trait for all successful presentations is to treat them like a conversation. And the only way to have a ‘good’ conversation is to make sure the connection between the deliverer and recipient is present.

I know this sounds a bit flaky and intimidating, but don’t worry. In this post, I’ll detail what remote presentations are, establish what makes them effective, discuss their pitfalls, and go over a few tips and tricks to make sure you nail your next remote presentation.

What are remote presentations?

Remote presentations are any presentations that are hosted and facilitated in virtual settings, particularly where the presenter and members of the audience are not physically in the same space.

In most cases, they require an internet connection (I mean, how else are you going to get your slides across?)

Some examples of remote presentations include webinars, e-lectures and web-conferences. Heck, if you’re using a tool like Zoom or Skype to share your screen and go over a set of slides, that counts as a remote presentation too!

Why are remote presentations effective?

Two reasons.

First and foremost, you, as a presenter, have immediate access to anyone, anywhere, at any time. I can’t overstate just how much benefit this can bring to just about anybody in this day and age.

A professor in Mexico can teach students in South Africa over an online lecture.

A management consulting company in Australia can go over their findings with their international peers over a webinar.

A presentation design agency made up of people from all over the world (that’s us, by the way) can present their designs to their clients in Massachusetts ( yep, we did this, too! )

The second reason comes with the benefit of the first. Using remote presentations helps everyone involved cut down on time (no more long commutes or travel requirements) and cost (no more expensive hardware like screens or projectors).

The caveats

While we should recognize the enormous amount of benefit that remote presentations can bring, we also have to recognize their downfalls.

Ignore these at your own peril. They can cause some serious reputable damage. Nobody wants to be the guy that colleagues and clients sigh at whenever a presentation is involved.

Interaction and feedback isn’t easy in the virtual world

When you’re on stage, it’s easy to stop at a point, look at an audience member in the eyes, ask a question, receive a response, expand on the audience member’s answer, and move on with the content.

Let’s take a step back now. Why is the process easy?

A presenter can gauge the reaction of the audience, look at someone who has a facial expression of interest, and engage with that member.

In short: the mode of interaction is easy because the audience member’s facial expression invites the presenter to engage with that person.

Does this all sound complicated? Then consider another, more familiar approach.

You’re on stage, and you make a joke to ease the formal tension in the room and get more people relaxed.

If people laugh, your joke was a hit and you were dead on.

If, on the other hand, the audience is dead silent, then you know your joke didn’t land so well, and you need to work on your comedy routine.

The point is, we’re able to interact with the audience because we’re encouraged to do so. The feedback is immediate, and we’re able implement an approach to our delivery to move the content forward.

Now take these contexts and apply them in a remote presentation setting.

See the problem now?

We’re not able to immediately understand the feedback our audience is giving us. Yes, there are hints and queues we can pick up on (like an audience member typing “haha” in the chat window after you made a joke in the middle of your presentation), but it just isn’t the same thing.

The point is we have to work extra hard to make sure we can both receive some sort of feedback from the audience, and leverage some sort of interaction based on that response.

I’ll go over some of the methods I personally use later in this post.

Technical difficulties suck when you’re remote

My anxiety is at its peak whenever I host a webinar, because my mind comes back to one question.

“What if the internet dies and I leave my audience stranded?”

You might think I’m just paranoid, but give me the chance to validate that fear to show you what I mean.

In early 2019, I co-hosted a webinar with the fine folks at LogMeIn’s GoToWebinar. In that webinar, I was set to give a live (yes, live) PowerPoint tutorial to every person that signed up to attend the session.

Over 1,500 people registered for this webinar. In fact, someone at LogMeIn told me that this webinar was the one that had the most amount of registrants by a large margin.

Can you imagine my internet connection dying half way into the session and leaving every single person who attended that session with nothing? Literally wasting their time and devaluing their busy schedules?

Of course, I’m giving the extreme scenario. But technical difficulties don’t have to be so detrimental. Even the smallest challenges can set your remote presentation up for failure.

Things like choppy videos, awful microphones, slow internet connections and trouble registering for and/or joining the remote presentations can cause some serious harm to your remote presentation’s outcomes.

Sure, technical difficulties can happen when you’re delivering a presentation on stage, too. But I’d argue that these technical difficulties can be mitigated quite easily. Projector not working? No problem, get someone from IT to fix it. Still not working? Fine, give out handouts and use the handouts instead of the slides.

But in the remote world? Things are different. People often don’t have the time (and if I’m being really honest? The skills, too) to fix whatever troubles they’re faced with. Decisions have to be made in seconds, not minutes, and a solution needs to be found ASAP.

Distractions and remote presentations go hand-in-hand

Giving a presentation in a conference room? You have the room, and have total control of the outcomes.

Giving a presentation on stage? The venue’s yours, and you know what you’re dealing with.

Giving a presentation remotely? Things change.

And you know what? I could go on for hours about this. But I think this 43 second video can do all the talking for me.

The experience of this poor soul embodies every remote presenter’s worst nightmare.

I digress. The point is, distractions come far and wide when it comes to virtual presentations.

And to make matters worse: Some of these distractions aren’t even in your control.

I was once pitching a sale to a potential client over a Zoom conference call. In the call, I was going over the proposal slide-by-slide.

I was on my game, hitting point after point. I knew I was really, really close to closing that sale.

And then my neighbor in the apartment upstairs thought it would be good to blast some dubstep music at 100% volume. It was so bad my ceiling literally shook.

I was distracted and frustrated. All I could do was try to keep calm and carry on. Sure, I could have asked her to hold on for a second while I dealt with the issue, but it would be rude to keep her for a whole waiting for 10 minutes in absolute silence.

I apologized profusely, and asked her to schedule the call.

At first, she understood and agreed. But that moment was gone. She wasn’t as inspired as she was when we were engaged in a discussion, and  the potential sale understandably just fizzled out.

The point is this: remote presentations are a lot more susceptible to distractions. Yes, some of these distractions can be in your immediate control. But others, like a lousy neighbor playing awful music in the middle of your conference call, aren’t.

In case you’re wondering, yes. I did confront the neighbor and even filed a noise complaint. I haven’t heard a peep since then. 

Total lack of a voice’s potential

It’s one thing to have a robotic, monotonous voice when you’re on-stage or delivering a session in a closed room.

But an unengaging voice is a whole different diabolical thing when delivering a remote presentation.

When behind a computer screen, an effective voice really matters. It helps build trust, emphasize on key points, create emotional contexts, and even help strategically sequence content.

But when a remote presenter makes no effort to vary his pitch or volume throughout the session? Or worse, doesn’t pause in between key pieces of content?

Then I can almost guarantee you that nobody is going to take that remote presentation seriously.

I’ve been asked to attend a large number of remote presentations in my career. Some of them were mandatory.

And I can tell you, hand-on-heart, that whenever I do take part in these remote session, and I feel that the presenter adopts an absolutely zero-sense-of-creativity approach to his voice?

I stop caring. Immediately.

Sure, I may still be in the session. But I’m only pretending to take part and browsing Reddit instead.

Effective visuals aren’t optional

Let’s be clear about something from the get-go.

To me — and I realize this is biased because I’m the CEO of a presentation design agency, but still — effective visuals are absolutely 100% required when delivering a presentation remotely.

And the reason for that is straightforward: You need to find ways to keep the audience engaged since you don’t have many options available.

I’ve already mentioned that the use of one’s voice is essential when it comes to delivery. But even if you adopt the best voice-related approach in the world, it won’t matter if you present slides like this:

It’s 2020, folks. Nobody has the time for ugly fonts, misaligned pictures and ugly clipart anymore. Everyone wants information that’s easy to process and remember.

And effective visuals help with that. Let’s be honest, wouldn’t you want to look at something like this instead?

How to win at the remote presentation game

Okay, I’m done with the depressing information now.

Let’s go over the tips, tools and strategies that will ensure every remote presentation that you deliver is an outstanding success

Create an environment that allows for remote connection

I get it. It’s hard to make sure that you constantly interact with your audience when you’re dishing out your content remotely.

But just because it’s hard doesn’t mean you can’t do it.

Take the time to set up your virtual space in order to ensure there’s at least some sort of interaction between you and your audience.

For example, when I use a web-conferencing platform like Zoom to host my remote presentations, I make sure that at least half of my participants have a microphone so that the remote presentation is treated as a conversation rather than a lecture-like session.

If I’m hosting webinars, I make sure that every attendee in the webinar session has the ability to engage with my content by typing in the chat box, or taking part in my quizzes, polls and surveys. I even read out some of the answers I receive to make clear that I am indeed listening.

Here’s another trick I use when presenting remotely: I always ask questions as I go through my content. I do this regularly, and I make it a point to not move on until I receive a response.

Oh, and my questions aren’t “Any questions?” either. They’re meaningful, engaging, and help create context.

What I do is something along the lines of this:

"So, how many of you think that you just aren’t creative enough to design something effective in PowerPoint?"

"Chris, I see that you said no in the chat box. Can I know why?"

"Come on Chris, waiting on your answer here, my man! Don’t keep me and 90 other people hanging like that."

Adopting a similar approach highly encourages your audience to become active participants in your session. And there’s nothing more beautiful than that.

Take your designs seriously

Yes, you need to design effective visuals for your remote presentation. It isn’t an option.

You owe it to your audience to make sure they stay as engaged as possible while you’re delivering your material.

I realize that time is money. If you can’t design beautiful slides around your content, and you don’t have the time to do so, then here are a couple of solutions to consider:

Option A: Get a presentation template

Consider this option if your remote presentation is simple and/or more routine. Examples include: status updates and internal meetings.

Get your hands on a decent presentation template . Some are free, some aren’t. The only thing I’d note here is to make sure you get a template that’s effective and from a reputable seller. Trust me, you don’t want to buy an ineffective template .

Looking for amazing PowerPoint Templates?

Check out our premium PowerPoint templates that are so good they got some of our customers a promotion! 

Option B: Get professionals to design your slides for you

Consider this option if your presentation is critical. Examples include: pitch decks, sales proposals, major webinars, virtual summits, etc.

Get a professional or an agency to design your slides for you. This is often a more expensive approach, but it’s well worth it.

Also, try and avoid freelancer platforms like Fiverr, Upwork and 99Designs . You might end up being very disappointed.

If you’d like, our agency can do all the hard work for you . We’ve designed presentations and templates for brands all over the world, from major Fortune 500 companies to one-man startups. So, if you’re up for it, get in touch and we can get a call going.

Check out a presentation designed for Exxon Mobil!

Mitigate the risk of technical issues and distractions with a solid backup plan.

I’m not going to give you some boring fluff like “always be prepared for the worst” because you already know about that cliche junk already.

But I do want to take the time to show you how to be prepared in the event you run into technical faults, or are distracted by things beyond your control.

And it all comes back to this one principle: You have to make sure you have an alternative way to successfully communicate your content.

For me, this means that I have a backup internet connection. If my internet disconnects, I use the mobile hotspot feature on my phone, connect to it, and continue the session.

Similarly, if my computer decides to break down and stall on me, I have my laptop ready to go.

And if both options fail, I make sure that one of two things is actioned immediately. I either:

• Record a video of the content I want to communicate using a video recording service like Loom, and send it to the participants of the session whenever I can, alongside a request to reschedule the session if they’d like, or;
• Immediately have a co-worker take over the session whenever I have to stop the session for whatever reason

Let me be clear, none of these options are ideal, but when everything goes to crap, you have to remember you’re in damage control mode.

The show must go on!

Invest in the right equipment

You know what really hurts a remote presentation experience? These things:

• A slow internet connection which leads to choppy audio and video
• A $2 microphone that sounds like you’re talking into a tube
• A webcam with the picture quality of a 1940’s motion picture
• A less-than-ideal software solution that makes it extremely hard for you and your audience to take part in your sessions

I could go on, but I won’t.

Invest in valuable equipment. Get a decent microphone, a fast internet connection, and a webcam that doesn’t suck. Also make sure that the platform you’re using to host your remote presentation doesn’t have an interface that cavemen can resonate with. 

Use your voice like your life depended on it

Like I mentioned before, the use of one’s voice is essential when it comes to delivering remote presentations.

Do not be afraid to be seen as someone that’s unprofessional, dramatic, or even immature, just because you’re making the effort to engage with your audience.

Excited about something you’re presenting? Elevate your pitch and get that excitement recognized. Trust me, it’s contagious.

Conveying something a little more serious? Pause frequently to let your message sink in.

Telling a joke to ease tension? Chuckle at the end of it to signal that you’re making things comfortable for everyone.

Make your passion known.

Don’t be your own distraction

One time, I attended a webinar where some CEO of a SaaS company was going over his latest product that was set to be launched soon.

I absolutely hated it.

He did everything right. He used his voice well, his visuals were decent, the video was smooth as butter, and the audio quality was perfect.

But every 30 seconds, he’d cough or clear his throat, and it felt like a knife was stabbing my ears.

Every. 30. Seconds.

It was torture.

I really feel bad for the guy, because I know it wasn’t intentional. Still, his experience led me to write this section.

Please realize that when you’re delivering a remote presentation, you are the center attention during that time. Everything you do can be heard (and in some cases, seen). Be conscious about the subtle things.

And for God’s sake, have a bottle of water with you or something.

Don’t go for the safe approach every single time

Please don’t adopt a cookie-cutter approach all the time.

Be creative. Find things that will make your audience remember you and look forward to your next round.

Using things like games and contests can elevate your remote presentation to new heights! And they don’t even need to be complicated. Something as simple as “The first attendee to tweet something with #ThisHashtag doesn’t pay for lunch next week” will do just fine.

Even better: Leverage other software solutions into your remote presentations! When I facilitated a virtual presentation design workshop with Konami Gaming, I had every attendee use a whiteboard that I hosted on Miro to compile their ideas. I then went through each and every one of these ideas to give merit to the discussion.

Put a face to the name (optional, but recommended) 

This one’s subjective, but I’ll mention it anyway.

It’s always a good idea to have a webcam ready if you’re giving a remote presentation. Allowing your audience to watch you go through your material helps put them at ease.

This makes sense. Putting a face to the name makes the whole experience feel more human-like.

And if nothing else, it helps establish trust. A smile can go a really long way. Trust.

You’re ready!

Did you go through everything in the post?

Good. Now you’re ready. You know exactly what remote presentations are, their major drawbacks, and ways to overcome any obstacles thrown at you.

Thanks Yoyo, very nice information. I have read every letter, right away, even when it is past my bedtime. This information will come in handy the next weeks. Good tips on what not to do and how to actually deliver a good remote presentation.

Thanks Tom!

one more thing I’d like to add which makes a huge difference. STAND while you’re making your presentation. It will automatically improve the sound, gives you more energy and stamina. I got a standing desk for that reason and it’s been a game changer.

Thanks Yoyo, good things to consider.

Thanks Shaun!

Oh Absolutely, Erica!

Remote Presentations can be really challenging. But I think with the help of this guide, I can actually get the maximum benefits.

How do you feel about animations and transitions in remote presentations? Will the effects be jerky or smooth? Even if the presenter has good internet, could the end user be affected?

Got a project for us?

© Slide Cow. All rights reserved.

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Crush Your Next Virtual Presentation

A little prep can go a long way.

While virtual communication platforms help keep remote teams connected, they’re not always the ideal venue for delivering engaging presentations. It’s difficult (or impossible) to read your audience’s nonverbal cues over video and audio — if you’ve lost them, you might not even realize it. You’re also up against the many distractions inherent to working from home. Delivering effective presentations over video requires a little extra preparation. Ask a few people you trust to help you out before and after the meeting by being ready to participate when called on and by giving you actionable feedback afterward. Learn about your audience in advance and build in a short, relevant personal story that will make them feel included. Above all, be concise and clear.

My coaching client, an engineer named Carlos, is a magnificent in-person storyteller. He talks with his hands and tells lengthy, animated stories replete with humorous metaphors and plot twists. His wit and warmth used to be received positively.

• GS Gia Storms is a leadership coach and member of The Boda Group. She facilitates team and executive coaching from Los Angeles.

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10 Best Practices for Giving a Remote Presentation

After COVID, with more companies embracing the WFH hybrid model of working, virtual presentations have become a fundamental part of professional communication. Whether you're an executive delivering a keynote or a sales representative pitching a product, mastering the art of giving a remote presentation is vital for success.

This blog post explores the ten virtual presentation tips that will enhance your virtual communication skills. This comprehensive guide offers valuable insights and practical virtual presentation tips. So, get ready to take your virtual presentations from good to great!

Importance of Following Best Practices for a Flawless Virtual Presentation

Virtual presentations require a different skill set compared to in-person presentations. The presenter needs to capture and hold the audience's attention while talking. Shorter sentences are easier to understand, and maintaining eye contact with the audience through the webcam is crucial.

Additionally, using appropriate hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language can help to keep the audience engaged and connected. Following best practices for virtual presentations will help ensure your audience effectively communicates and receives your message.

Virtual Presentation Examples

To illustrate the best practices for a flawless remote presentation, let's look at some virtual presentation examples:

• A salesperson presenting a product demonstration to a potential client via Zoom
• A teacher delivering a lecture to students via Microsoft Teams
• A manager giving a team update during a Google Meet conference call
• A keynote speaker presenting at a virtual conference via Webex

How to Give a Virtual Presentation: 10 Best Practices to Follow

1. Test Your Technology

Before your presentation, make sure to test your technology. Check your internet connection, microphone, camera, and any other tools you plan to use. It's essential to ensure that everything is working correctly before starting your presentation to avoid any technical difficulties during the presentation.

2. Create a Professional Environment

Your present environment should be professional and appropriate for the message you want to convey. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background to minimise distractions. Make sure your surroundings are tidy and uncluttered, and remove anything distracting or inappropriate.

3. Dress Appropriately

Even though you're presenting remotely, it's still important to dress appropriately for the occasion. Dressing professionally helps to convey respect for your audience and your message. Avoid wearing bright colours or patterns that might be distracting on camera.

4. Use Engaging Visuals

Visual aids can be an effective way to communicate your message and keep your audience engaged. Use graphics, charts, images, and videos to help illustrate your points and make your presentation more interesting. However, ensure your visuals are relevant and easy to understand and don't distract from your message.

5. Speak Clearly and Slowly

When presenting remotely, it's essential to speak clearly and slowly to ensure your audience understands you. Take regular breaks to allow your audience to process the information and ask questions if necessary. Try to avoid using jargon or technical terms that your audience might not understand.

6. Avoid Distractions

Minimise distractions during your presentation by muting notifications and closing other applications on your computer.

If you're presenting, choose a quiet and private room where you won't be interrupted by external noises. You can also politely ask your audience to refrain from using their phones or engaging in conversations without turning off their microphone during the presentation.

Additionally, ensure you have all the materials you need ready and organised beforehand to avoid any last-minute distractions or technical difficulties. Remember, the more focused you are, your audience will be more engaged and attentive.

7. Be Prepared for Technical Difficulties

Technical difficulties can still occur during a remote presentation despite your best efforts. Be prepared to troubleshoot any issues that arise, and have a backup plan in case your primary tools fail. It's also essential to have a contact person who can help you resolve any technical issues if necessary.

8. Practise Your Timing

Time management is essential during a virtual presentation. Plan your presentation carefully and practise your timing to ensure that you stay within the allotted time. Remember to leave time for questions and answers at the end of your presentation.

9. Interact with Your Audience

Engage your audience by asking questions, encouraging discussion, and soliciting feedback. Use polls, quizzes, and surveys to make the presentation interactive and engage your audience. If possible, address your audience by name, and make eye contact with the camera periodically to create a more personal connection.

10. Follow Up After the Presentation

After your presentation, follow up with your audience to gather feedback and address any outstanding questions or concerns. Use this feedback to improve your future presentations and strengthen your relationship with your audience.

Additionally, following up with your audience after a presentation is an excellent way to show your appreciation for their time and attention. A simple thank-you message or email can go a long way in establishing a positive relationship with your audience and keeping them engaged.

By implementing these ten best practices for a flawless remote presentation, you can enhance your virtual communication skills and make a lasting impact on your audience. Remember to prepare thoroughly, pay attention to your delivery, and utilise visual aids strategically to create a seamless virtual experience.

To further sharpen your presentation skills and excel in the virtual realm, consider exploring professional courses and workshops offered by SoME. Our comprehensive programmes cover various topics, including virtual presentation tips, mastering presentation remotes, and techniques for delivering captivating virtual presentations.

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All You Need To Know About Presenting Remotely

Hitiksha jain.

• Body Language & Delivery

Remote presentations are hosted and facilitated in a virtual setting . This means that the speaker/presenter and the audience are not present in the same physical setting . 

Some examples of remote presentations are— webinars, e-lectures, web-conferences or if you share your screen on Zoom , Skype , or Google Meet .

Remote presentations have become quite the trend in today’s world mainly due to the entire COVID situation.

These presentations might look easy, but can be challenging sometimes. But why?

Presenting virtually makes it very easy to lose that one thing every speaker is looking for: A human connection . 

The goal of every speaker is to make their speech interactive. Interaction between you (the speaker) and your audience will help you form the ‘Connection’ you are looking for.

Remote presentations might sound a bit daunting and flaky, but don’t worry. This article includes various tips and tools that you can use at your disposal to give an effective remote presentation.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Frantically Speaking (@frantically.speaking)

Tips for Giving an Effective Remote Presentation

1) prepare and practice.

Practice helps you become aware of your speaking abilities and hone your delivery skills.

You need to practice looking straight in front of the camera. This makes each member in the audience feel like you’re looking at them. The best way to do this is by recording yourself and playing it back in order to critique your performance.

There is so much more to communication than just what you say; therefore, only speaking won’t get your emotions linked with the message you are trying to send across. We have written an article on facial expressions and eye contact . In order to communicate your message more effectively, you can check this article out!

2) Know your Audience

You can connect better with your audience when you’ve studied them. 

Audience analysis involves identifying your audience and adapting your speech to their interests, level of understanding, attitudes, and beliefs.

Taking an audience-centered approach can help you deliver your speech in an appropriate manner because you craft your speech by taking them into consideration.

To know your audience in a virtual setting like this, you can consider the following points:

• Understand why your topic is important for the audience. Since audiences are usually heterogeneous, knowing this will help give your presentation a better direction
• The points you include in your presentation can be based on the understanding your audience has about your topic
• Knowing the size of the audience helps you determine the amount of effort you need to put in
• Demographics like the age, gender of your audience will help construct your speech in a way the audience can connect to

Here’s an article on The Importance of Knowing Your Audience When Delivering a Speech . Even if it’s a short speech, it is important to know them. Check it out to get some tips on how to know your listeners well.

3) Keep it Concise with Facts

Work from home comes with its own set of distractions. I always find myself multitasking during WFH!

As a presenter you would obviously want your audience to pay maximum attention to your presentation. For this, it is very important to keep your presentation as concise as possible, maybe 15-25 minutes.

Your virtual presentation should only be filled with essential information.

Here are some ways you can try to keep your presentation concise:

• Avoid using lengthy sentences, try and limit each sentence to maximum 10 words
• Use less words and more visuals
• Avoid cluttering your presentations with data, rather use more of blank space to focus on one idea per slide
• Videos can quickly convey information without you even explaining

Adding only facts in your speech can somewhere disrupt the entertainment value of your speech. We have written an article on Steps to Add Facts in A Speech Without Making It Boring . This article will guide you in ways you can add facts without giving up on the entertainment quality.

4) Create Interesting Visuals

Research shows that the human brain can remember only 20% of what they hear and read and 80% of what they see.

So, it would be a wise decision to invest your time in the visual content (images, graphics or videos) comparatively.

Visual aids are worth adding because it is beneficial for both- the audience and the speaker. It helps the speaker explain information more coherently which makes presenting easier for him/her and learning easier for the audience.

But why are visuals powerful?

• By adding visual content you can condense your information into smaller chunks to provide more clarity about your message
• People easily associate emotions with visuals which makes what you’re saying more impactful and memorable than words alone.

5) Resort to Storytelling 

It would be a good choice to turn your pitch deck into a captivating story. This will enhance your audiences’ engagement, rather than dropping their attention to the ground.

Benefits of telling a story in your virtual presentation:

• It makes it easier for the audience to remember what you said
• It keeps the audience hooked
• Evokes emotion, especially empathy which makes them resonate to your central message 
• Lastly, it has the ability to change their belief about something

How to tell a story through your remote presentation?

• Create a relatable character (hypothetical or real) that your listeners can emotionally connect to. For instance, Dove’s Men + Care Campaign portrays a powerful emotional story about a father’s love for his daughter
• Take them through a journey. Meaning your pitch deck needs to have a beginning where you showcase a problem, the middle where you create more tension and the end that provides a solution
• Wear your listeners shoes by getting inside their minds and thinking like them, this way you’ll be able to write your story in a way that addresses their immediate concerns
• Link the visual content to the story you’re telling

Converting your virtual presentation/speech into a story will help your audience remember what you said. We’ve written an in-depth article on different storytelling approaches that you can review for some inspiration.

6) Know the Technology

We all have attended a presentation where the speaker is not familiar with the features of the software. Or where someone presented for several minutes without knowing that their microphone was muted or their content wasn’t showing on the screen.

This creates an uncomfortable experience for both and can be easily avoided.

Best ways to get comfortable with the technology beforehand:

• A dry run is essential to get comfortable with the platform’s features
• Have a co-host or a moderator to assist you with it so that you can focus on your presentation
• Try to practice with the same technical set up that you will be using for your presentation
• Make sure you test your mic, screen sharing and camera before you go live

7) Have an Appropriate Background

Virtual presentation might not give you the flexibility of being able to present in a clean setting.

Below mentioned points are a few ways to achieve a decent background:

• You can blur your background in order to mask the messiest settings
• A clean backdrop is another great way to avoid distractions and help people focus on your presentation
• Solid color walls can be a substitute for backdrops

Along with the right background, you also need to take care about the lighting. This is because as a presenter, you should be clearly visible to them.

The natural light can be the best solution to it. However, if your home office doesn’t have it then you can consider purchasing supplemental lighting to enhance your video.

8) Get Rid of Distractions

Imagine how annoying it would be to watch a presentation with so many tabs open at the side. And the presenter is switching from one tab to the other along with notifications popping up.  

All these are signs of distraction and I’m sure as a presenter, you would obviously want to avoid that.

Make sure you hide your browser bookmarks, ribbons, unnecessary tabs and your notifications. 

9) Optimize your Home Internet

You can deliver a high-quality and engaging presentation with the help of a decent internet connectivity.

No one wants to listen to a presenter with laggy audio and video. Therefore, use a reliable, high-speed internet connection to ensure a smooth virtual presentation.

One way to optimize your internet connection is by switching off the wi-fi on other devices around the house.

How to Engage an Audience through a Remote Presentation?

The phenomena of virtual events is on a significant rise.

Interacting with your audience in a virtual setting can be a little difficult as compared to speaking in-person with them because in a setting like this the audience can leave the meeting anytime. 

So, it is very important to ensure that the audience stays there till you disclose your Call to Action plan.

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can try in order to engage your audience:

• Randomly ask them questions, so they know the need to pay attention to you
• Use the chat feature for a real-time Q&A session. You can do this by asking a question on screen and have people respond in chat
• Group breakout sessions can encourage discussions amid the audience where they can share insights and learn from each other
• Gamifying your presentation in the form of crosswords or memory games is a great way to keep your attendees engaged and on-task. For example, if your presentation is on ‘Environment Protection’ then your crossword can be based on questions like what can one use instead of a plastic bags or plates
• Use appropriate humor to convey your ideas. For instance, Morgan Spurlock uses a humorous approach to support his ideas
• You can involve them in certain activities like polls, quizzes, surveys as they are recognizable tools to get instant reactions from them. Example, on Zoom you can either run one poll or multiple polls at a time like this:

One factor that will keep people hooked till the end is their Belief that they will solve their problem with your help or via this presentation.

How to Dress for a Remote Presentation?

A lot of presentations are so well crafted and delivered, but still somewhere seem to be incomplete or unprofessional. And the reason behind it could be your attire.

We often give less importance to dressing, especially while working from home. But it is something that has an impact on our attitude, work ethics and the way people perceive us. For instance, formal clothing makes you look more authoritative and competent, as compared to dressing casually.

You can consider the below listed points to dress appropriately for your next remote presentation:

• Avoid wearing stripes or busy patterns as they create waver on camera
• Noisy, flashy, or shiny jewelry pieces can create noise and catch light. So avoid it!
• Wear solid color clothes like neutrals, browns, and soft blues because they are visually appealing
• Make sure there is some contrast between the color you wear and the background. For instance, light neutrals won’t work well with a white background

Addition to this, try and avoid wearing glasses because your audience might find it difficult to make eye contact with you. And make sure your camera is adjusted according to your face height, so you don’t look too high or low.

Assuming that you’ve understood the ways through which you can make your remote presentation effective. The next step is to choose the best software you can use to collaborate with your team members and present simultaneously then we’ve got you covered.

Best Tools to Create and Give a Remote Presentation 

Choosing the right platform to give a remote presentation can be subjective depending on the user’s requirements and convenience. 

The tools mentioned below will not only help you share your presentation virtually, but also offer certain inbuilt tools. These tools make it convenient for the user to present and simultaneously stay in-touch with the other team members.

1) Google Slides

Google Slides is a presentation tool that allows you to make both online and offline presentations. It is one of the best alternatives to other presentation tools and supports real-time editing and collaboration. 

Since, Google Slides is cloud-based, you can access it from any computer and anywhere with the help of the Internet. All you have to do is log into your Google account.

Benefits of Google Slides:

• Offers you real-time editing. The version of your online presentation is always the most current and to add on, it automatically saves your presentation
• Collaboration isn’t a problem because you can share it with anybody with Internet access
• You can control who has the access to edit, comment or view your presentation before sharing it
• You can import slideshows from other presentation software tools and vice versa
• Allows you to have a live Q&A session with your audience (considered to be the best feature)
• Variety of templates are available from both Google and third-party vendors such as Envato Elements or Graphicriver
• Along with this, you can add embedded videos, animations, diagrams and much more

In order to present your presentation online, go to the top-right of your presentation and click ‘Present.’

2) Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft has built an impressive web version called the Office Online. It permits you to run PowerPoint in a web browser. Regardless of which version of PowerPoint you are using, you can pair it up with the browser-based version of the app.

All you need to do is enter PowerPoint Online , a version of Microsoft’s presentation app and create or log in with your Microsoft account.

Office Online apps don’t include all of their Windows features; however, they include a set of basic editing tools like embedding videos and animations, formatting tools, variety of fonts, collaborative features to name just a few examples. In short, it has all the basic tools that you need for your presentation.

The basics are the same. If you’ve used PowerPoint before, you’ll feel at home with PowerPoint online. 

To start broadcasting your presentation, you can go to Slide Show and then click on ‘Present Online.’

3) Zoho Show

The presentation tool under Zoho WorkDrive is called the Zoho Show . It allows you to work, edit, collaborate, create and give a presentation with your co-workers regardless of where you are.

Benefits of Zoho Show:

• Enables you to plan, create, design, and organize your information with clutter-free presentations
• ‌Centralized space for teams to work and collaborate in real-time. Teammates can quickly create, edit, and exchange feedback on slides
• You can explain complex information with the help of their advanced tools like drawing custom shapes, adding image filters and much more
• Allows you to showcase your well-crafted slide decks either to internal peers or external stakeholders on the web

In order to present online, you first need to send an invitation link to join the broadcast and then click on ‘Start Broadcast.’

Slides is a highly functional online presentation tool. It is not only easy to use, but also comes along with unique collaborative features.

It provides both paid and unpaid services. You can try the unpaid one which is publicly viewable and comes with ads.

• Allows your entire team to edit the presentation
• Has a drag and drop interface, supported by a media library along with reusable images, videos and slide templates
• Equipped with Google Analytics , so you can measure the impact of your presentation

Once your presentation is ready, you can present it by clicking on the ‘Present Live button.’

Other popular softwares that only allow you to present and share your screen are- Google Meet, Zoom and GoToMeeting .

With Google Meet and Zoom you can share your screen with up to 100 participants. The best feature is where you can record the meeting to watch it later. Zoom provides additional features like Zoom Rooms and annotations.

GoToMeeting- a meeting tool, provides access to share your content and pass the presenter control to another user. Drawing Tools   like the Pen, Highlighter let you mark up your screen as you’re giving your presentation.

Here’s a Complete Guide On How To Broadcast your Presentation Online to a Remote Audience via Google Slides:

Remember, you first need to have a Gmail account in order to have access to Google Slides.

Go to your Google Drive. On the top left-hand corner you’ll see a button called ‘New’, click on it and select ‘Google Slides’.

You can choose between two options. When you choose ‘Blank Presentation’ you will have to create your presentation from scratch. And when you select ‘From a Template’ you can choose a free template to build your presentation and edit it accordingly. 

Once you’ve made your presentation with some amazing visuals, animations, fonts, etc. the next step is to share it with your team members either to edit, view, or comment on the presentation that you’ve made.

To share your document, on the top right-hand side of the google slide interface, click on ‘Share’. You can control who can do what and then copy the link.

After the entire editing process is completed by your team and you, you are now ready to present it virtually. 

To present, on the top right-hand corner beside share, click on ‘Present.’

The presentation will then open in full-screen Presenter view. You can control the flow with the toolbar at the bottom. Use the Esc key to exit full-screen.

To start a live Q&A session, click on the button that says ‘Q&A’ to open Audience Tools in a mini-window. This allows you to open your session to questions from the viewers. You also have an option to choose who can submit questions.

Voilà! It’s that easy.

Virtual presentation may seem easy and straightforward, but it is surely not. Because holding your audiences’ attention in a setting like this can be difficult due to ‘n’ number of distractions. 

This doesn’t mean you can’t have a knack of it. With few tips and tricks you can deliver an effective remote presentation.

Try and make your presentations engaging and effective with the help of these aforementioned tips and tools.

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10 remote presentation tips to keep participants engaged

Where to start preparing your next remote presentation

Spread the word

Finding it hard to adjust your presentations to a remote setting? Delivering remote presentations isn’t entirely that different from regular ones. The main challenge remains keeping your audience engaged so they’re not tempted to look at their phone or browse the web instead.

That’s exactly what we’re going to focus on through the following 10 tried-and-tested tips for delivering effective remote presentations. Feel free to use these techniques for presenting remotely for your team meetings, online events, and webinars alike.

Always plan and practice ahead of time

While not everyone is naturally born as an amazing speaker, we can all practice to deliver a mindblowing presentation that will be memorable not only for the information you share but also for your exposition skills. 

The first step is ensuring you’ve got the right remote presentation tools to work with. This includes your lights and any headset, microphone, and speaker you might need to improve the quality of the stream. Look through all of the Amazon reviews, starting from the negative ones, to see how your options already perform for similar purposes. You can then use the Krisp app with any of the audio solutions to clear up the sound so no noise passes through.

To prevent unanticipated hardware or software crashes during the remote presentation, run a tech check a couple of hours beforehand. Malte Scholz, CEO and Co-Founder at Airfocus , turns to having a tech expert help with this task:

“I find it very challenging to hold a presentation and worry about slides and other tech things. Sometimes I need to look at some notes on my computer which is impossible if I’m the one sharing the screen. For these reasons, I always have a tech person who shares the presentation and makes sure nobody is experiencing any issues. This person should be able to take care of things and make decisions independently, without interrupting you in when presenting remotely.” 

Once you know there’s nothing that could go wrong from a tech side, you’ll be less stressed and can now focus better on your own presentation delivery. Practice the entire presentation from start to finish at least once and write down any points you might forget to mention:

“ I get nervous while I present something online, especially since I cannot feel the energy in the room and make real connections. Because I know how easy it is to distract me, I try to do everything I can to avoid this scenario. This means practicing my full presentation at least once before the actual event. 

I don’t just go over my notes but give a full speech to my laptop. While I speak without the audience, I can focus on myself and improve bits and pieces of my presentation. This helps me relax during the actual event. ” – Mikkel Andreassen, Customer Experience Manager at Dixa

If you think there’s a high chance of something going wrong like your camera stopping all of a sudden or audio lagging, put together backup plans. Have an extra camera or mic at hand, ensure your phone’s Internet data allowances can cover in case your Wi-Fi connection drops, or even keep a secondary laptop at hand.

Have someone else help you with the presentation

Depending on the scale of the remote presentation, you’ll need someone to help you with a tech, design, or administrative task. From checking if everything is ok before the start of an event to monitoring everything during the actual presentation.

In particular, if you’re taking questions from an audience with over 100 active members, you’ll need a moderator. This person can select the questions, send resources to people whose inquiries can be answered through an existing post of yours, and even remove spam from the chat.

To maintain full control of the discussion, have this person establish the ground rules and etiquette even before people sign up for the event. They can receive a brief list of conditions to attend the presentation and only receive an invite once they accept the terms.

And the moderator’s duty doesn’t stop here. They’ll be responsible for all the follow-ups, sending a recording to everyone who missed the presentation, or putting together a blog post summary of the event.

Get your camera set up correctly

Don’t hold a presentation from a coffee shop. Choose an environment that keeps any distractions away and allows you to easily fix tech issues by quickly switching your device. 

Background props are fine as long as they don’t take all the attention. For instance, an educational remote presentation could use a couple of accessories and fun aids. You can also use the background strategically to fit in an unobtrusive call-to-action or product ad.

The way you place your camera though plays a huge part in helping you recreate the visual face-to-face interaction of a traditional presentation setting. Here’s everything to keep in check when setting up your camera for a remote presentation:

• Use natural light as often as possible and place light in front of you rather than on the side or behind you.
• Match the camera with your eye-level so the recording looks like you’re looking directly at the audience. Have the camera set up on top of your laptop or place a couple of books underneath the laptop in case your desk is too low. Keep the laptop at a 90 degrees angle at all times to ensure the recording stays the same.
• Look into the camera when presenting remotely, not at yourself. This lets you make virtual eye contact with the audience.

“As a facilitator that gives formal remote presentations, I have two camera options at my workstation. The first is the normal webcam I use when seated. It’s placed at eye-level and allows me to be on video while I access my computer and entire desk. The second camera is placed higher and further back on a tripod. I can switch to this second one at any moment and it allows me to give standing presentations too. 

The audience views me from the waist and above and it increased my “stage” as I can walk around. If I have virtual background images, it allows me to point and “touch” more images as my background is larger on screen. I can still access my desk and laptop when needed, and I might use a slide remote to change backgrounds or other virtual content as I present standing up.” – Robert Kienzle, Senior Consultant at Knowmium.

Invest in good visuals for your remote presentations

Long gone are the days when plain text on a white background was enough to support your claims. Today, every single slide you create matters. Use visuals as proof of your statements and to build trust in your expertise from the first seconds of presenting remotely.

Here are all of the best practices to keep in mind when creating your slides:

• Opt for a good design that matches your brand . It’s now time to consider delegating this task to the designer in your team or outsourcing this duty to impress your audience. 

For stunning virtual presentation layouts and templates, turn to Dribbble and Behance where you’ll also be able to find top designers to help you with this:

• Diversify the layout of your slides. Having one slide only with 3 sentences on it is fine as long as the next one is image-centric. Opt for a slightly different layout for each slide based on its purpose: quotes, facts, statements, images, videos, lists, contact information, etc. Imagine you’re creating the layout for a magazine. Would its pages be repetitive?
• Use a template as a last-minute option or for small team presentations. Large-scale events where your presentation can help you score a partnership or client will always be better off with an original design.
• Spend no more than 20 seconds on a slide. To do this, you first need to distribute your facts evenly. Having less than 15-20 words on a slide will ensure you don’t have that much to say so you’ll naturally move on to the following section.
• Having a top-notch design doesn’t mean you’re not supposed to show your face as you’re presenting remotely. The majority of people consider face-to-face interactions vital for any business partnerships be it within meetings or networking events. With virtual presentations, in-person communication will never be possible but you can still put a face to your name and voice as well as maintain eye contact through the camera.

Sara McGuire, Content Marketing Manager at Venngage , completes this list with her own one-of-a-kind tips:

“Because you’re losing the element of an in-person presence, you need to compensate for that by making your slides interesting to look at and more effective at communicating your message. Some best practices for designing an engaging remote presentation are:

• Make the first 30 seconds of your presentation count.
• Compare and contrast your solution with the status quo.
• Use visual aids to summarize and clarify your big ideas.
• Get your audience involved to build trust and rapport using polls or a chat.
• Use a clean, consistent presentation layout and design.
• Eliminate extraneous detail to focus on core concepts.”

Improve your speech and sound when presenting remotely

What people hear is more important than ever when presenting remotely. Keep in mind that a presentation doesn’t flow like a meeting, so people can’t just drop any to ask you to repeat something.

Practice your speech beforehand and record it so you can identify any things that might not be heard correctly. For larger events, remote or not, a transcriptionist is a must. Having everything you say written down takes away the audience’s burden to strongly focus on what you’re saying. Plus, it removes any misunderstandings that could lie behind an accent or you not speaking loudly enough.

Another thing that could literally annoy your audience is constant background noise. Traffic, dogs barking, and people chattering are just three of the most common disruptors that will get listeners to think about where that sound comes from instead of what you’re saying. A solution like Krisp automatically removes the background noises from your live or recorded virtual presentations. It works with any tool you’re using from Zoom and Google Hangouts to Slack and over 800 more apps.

For extra clarity, learn to slow down. You don’t have to finish everything in 5 minutes. The coherence of your remote presentation has priority. So take sentences one at a time, with breaks in between to give people a couple of seconds to fully comprehend what you’re saying.

Maintaining the presentation interactive and engaging listeners

To differentiate your remote presentations from the other companies have created, find your own ways of keeping your audience engaged. As many as 70% of marketers believe interactive content is what keeps audiences engaged while 64% of people see a two-way interaction more effective at engaging people compared to a linear one.

You’ve got infinite options here, including:

• Ask people to share their feedback after a section of your presentation.
• Get people to prepare questions before the start of the remote presentation.
• Have your audience share fun or informative bits of the presentation in real-time via Twitter through a common hashtag.
• Set up a chat where people can share their ideas and ask a question.
• Add in useful activities to gather insights, act as a survey, or just test if your listeners were paying attention.

“You’ve probably been on a Zoom call where everyone went on mute right away. The problem is that the presenter then gets no feedback via casual remarks, laughs, or similar. This challenge is even worse when you go into the full-presentation mode and can’t see the others on screen. 

Instead, encourage attendees to keep their microphones on, and even more so encourage them to use it! Ask icebreaker questions, call on people, and otherwise find ways for folks to participate. That is the best way to prevent people from surfing off to other corners of the Internet during your presentation.” – Michael Alexis, CEO at TeamBuilding.

Steer clear from annoying habits and mistakes

The worst thing you can do to have your listeners close the presentation [yes, that’s easier to do compared to leaving the room for in-person presentations] is to keep your presentation repetitive or unintelligible. 

Common mistakes during remote presentations include simply reading from the slides, speeding up your speech, speaking slowly, or moving back and forth between slides because you forgot to say one thing at the previous one. All of these small habits confuse participants and give you a bad virtual rating.

Other frequent errors that can compromise the remote presentations’ success include forgetting to introduce yourself or not explaining complex topics some of your listeners might not be familiar with. Not everyone will be aware of who you are and the main reason people are probably signing up for the presentation is to learn something new from scratch. Clearly give a definition of any new terms or concepts you’re using and highlight the exact element or images you’re talking about using the on-screen drawing pen tool or shapes and arrows.

Ensure you’ll have enough time to take on extra questions or fit in unexpected tech and connectivity problems

Have you ever held a presentation and realized you forgot to mention one important thing only after it was done?

When announcing the presentation’s length or an event’s schedule, add at least 15 extra minutes to the time you first estimated. This helps you avoid rushing the presentation and allows you to take on enough questions at the end. Plus, if you think you forgot anything, you can fit it within the context during the Q&A session.

From a technical standpoint, Tom Winter, Co-Founder at DevSkiller , also shared his own takeaways:

“Always account for the unexpected and give yourself extra time for effective remote presentations. There are bound to be people that get disconnected during the meeting or are interrupted by their family or pets. Calculate at least 15 more minutes. You will always need time to answer extra questions or wait for one of the attendees to find a stable Wi-Fi connection. 

With everyone working from home these days, you need to make sure that you have enough bandwidth to run your meeting. So if your kids are playing Call of Duty online or streaming HD movies on Netflix, ask them nicely to find an offline activity until you are done. 

If this doesn’t work, either manually configure your home router to limit the connection from their connected devices IP address or better yet, get a dedicated router just for your home office, ideally hardwired with a LAN cable to your computer. This will help you avoid many headaches while hosting remote meetings as you will have a steady Internet connection that won’t easily get disrupted.”

Find unique ways of adapting your presentation to every single audience

The top and flow of your remote presentation should be motivating to the participant. To ensure people will want to interact with you, you can’t keep the same format for all audience types. Some aspects to take into consideration here are pre-existing knowledge of the topic, expectations, presentation setting, demographics, audience size, and more.

Next are two distinct cases with their own particular approaches:

• For small groups of fewer than 10 people, you can take the time to ask every single person one or two questions. In other words, when the time allows for it, initiate the engagement yourself. You can also gather their feedback via the chat so you can adapt the presentation as you go, keeping it in tone with their topics of interest.
• What about people who want to see your presentation but can’t attend? Make recording your remote presentations a habit. Let them know from the moment they sign up for the event that you’ll send the recording to everyone on the list. This takes away the pressure to make it on time and allows them to easily review the presentation at any time after. To improve your own remote presentation skills, review these yourself from time to time and reflect on the things you can improve.

“Keep your presentation human centered and find ways to prepare for every single audience ahead of time. Ask attendees what they want to get out of this session either through a message a couple of days before the meeting or at the start of the meeting. Spot misaligned expectations (if any) and address them right away. A good idea would be to ask for quick feedback when they sign up for the event so you’ll know what to focus on in your presentation.” – Julia Paskaleva, Founder at We Mavericks.

Don’t leave people hanging!

For effective remote presentations, give attendees a call-to-action (CTA) or link to a free resource they can check out to learn more. “Don’t forget to download our guide!”, “We’ve prepared a special ebook for all participants.”, or “Join our free community and take part in the discussion there.” are all good CTA ideas to use. So whether you created the presentation to sell, expand your network, or just increase brand awareness, use that core goal within your CTA too.

Tell them what they’re supposed to do next and how they can use the information you just shared. If you want them to take part in a project you run, instruct them on the general outline and send them a detailed guide to what their role would be.

“My number one tip would be to not leave people hanging! It’s likely your presentation included a ton of useful information, but all of it can go to waste if you don’t give them an action item. Running an internal presentation? Ask the team to get back to you with one piece of feedback about whatever it is you presented. Is it a webinar or similar external presentation? Call upon the participants to sign up to your blog, connect with you on LinkedIn or whatever it is that fits with your current goals.” – Katheriin Liibert, Head of Marketing at Outfunnel

Don’t forget to leave them your email address or social media account so they can contact you for future questions or opportunities. To keep things more personal, make time for brief meetings with people who are interested in learning more. You can also send a follow-up together with the recording of the presentation to remind them of a resource they didn’t download or a survey they haven’t yet completed.

These might seem like a lot of remote presentation tips you apply at once, but taking them one by one will ensure that you’ve got all points covered in a timely manner. 

The #1 best practice to keep in mind though is making sure you would enjoy your presentation if someone else showed it to you. Practice the presentation ahead of time and record it so you can analyze it and see if there’s anything that needs to be changed or if you can fit in some fun activities to keep your audience engaged.

To truly exceed everyone’s expectations, stay away from the “this will do” mentality. Invest in good design and tech equipment that will turn your boring remote presentations into professional ones. This is the first aspect that will capture people’s attention and get them eager to hear what you have to say.

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How I’ve improved my remote presentation setup

Originally posted Apr 2, 2021

When I wrote Demystifying Public Speaking , I based nearly all of my research and advice around how to brace yourself for, and give, in-person presentations. And for the first three years of being a self-employed trainer and coach at Wherewithall, 90% of my presentations were in-person: at company offices, conferences, and meetups.

Then the pandemic hit. I was lucky to have a trusted advisor to lean on as I adapted my workshop content to work better for a fully-remote audience, and for my own brain. But even though I’d successfully revamped my content, I still needed to iterate on the quality of and environment for my remote presenting setup.

As I iterated on my physical setup, I optimized for two things:

• What worked best with my personal public speaking preferences and workflow.
• What looked best to an audience.

Since I’m self-employed, I can write off office purchases as business expenses. This means that I did not optimize for overall cost savings. I hope this list of tweaks and tools helps you think about your own setup (and what YOU want to optimize for!) if you also find yourself giving remote presentations a lot.

(And none of the links to products I’ve included below are sponsored—I’m sharing the stuff I truly use every day, because they work for me!)

Faking eye contact with the audience

I use my laptop’s built-in FaceTime camera for all of my talks, since the quality is fine and I’ve gotten used to aligning its height with my eyeline. At this stage, I’m practiced at appearing like I’m making eye contact with my audience over video.

But as much as I’d like to be the kind of presenter who can improvise, I’m not—which means I use a script or presenter notes for every prepared event.

For those recordings, I used a DSLR instead of my computer—but you can use a teleprompter with your webcam too! Check out Anjuan Simmons’ setup .

I already knew how important it was to not be backlit, and to avoid any bright lights or windows behind my head. If it had been possible to face a window or another soft light so that my face could be well-lit, I would have—but my office has a south-facing window, and one dim overhead light.

Many folks recommend getting a ring light for their Zoom call/presentation setup, but those sadly don’t work for me—my glasses always reflect the ring!

I did a ton of research online to see how other people avoid lighting setups reflecting in their glasses, but didn’t come up with any truly workable solutions. I was reluctant to invest in studio lights and softboxes (there isn’t that much space in my office), and I didn’t want to use tricks like hairspray on my glasses. I resorted to asking Twitter , and my friend Bea introduced me to the world of Twitch streaming setups, and Elgato lights .

If my desk faced a wall, I would also have tried a tip I learned from that research: turn your lamp to face your wall, so that the light bounces off the wall and diffusely lights up your face. Brilliant.

Though the Elgato key light comes at a high price point, it’s worth it to me because—in addition to solving my glasses reflection problem—I can control the brightness and color of the light from my computer. In late afternoons or dreary days when I need more light in the office, I turn it up, and when I’m wearing a bold color that throws off the video’s white balance, I adjust the color temperature of the light to compensate.

Screen sharing

I’d been hesitant to get a second monitor, for space reasons; I’d only need it when it was time to give a presentation, since the rest of the time I’m coaching or writing and don’t need the second monitor. I’m the kind of person who can’t work around lots of clutter, and I need copious space for note taking, so for a long time I simply shared my Google Slides presentation from a separate window on my laptop (rather than a full-screen screenshare).

I knew this wouldn’t be workable long-term. If I ever wanted to use Keynote or PowerPoint for a particular talk, I’d need to have two screens: one for the slides, and one for my notes. And some video conferencing software doesn’t provide an option to share just one application window.

After researching portable monitors, I ended up deciding to invest in an iPad Pro. While it’s significantly more expensive than a normal second monitor would be, it met my reduced footprint needs; I can easily close it up and move it off my desk when I’m not giving a talk. It’s also tremendously easy to set up as a second screen from my Mac, and I now use it instead of carting around my laptop when I want to do some work or reading from another room.

Eons ago when I started coaching remotely, I bought a $25 Logitech USB headset. I would joke on calls that I looked like air traffic control, but it honestly has been exactly what I’ve needed: noise canceling, not-too-pinchy on my head, and crystal clear for those on the receiving end.

I’ve considered switching to an external microphone (the more expensive Blue Yeti, and the Rode microphone I used to film my video course, have both gotten great reviews), but honestly? I move around enough when I’m animatedly talking and presenting that I much prefer using a microphone attached to my head. And the A/V folks I’ve worked with on a variety of remote conferences have, unprompted, said it sounds (surprisingly) great.

One podcast graciously sent me a Sennheiser single-ear headset to use for our recording, but honestly I found it incredibly distracting to be able to hear other noise happening in my house! So I’ve stuck with my reasonably-priced Logitech H390 throughout this whole journey, and it’s been perfect.

Wall backdrop

This improvement was the second-most expensive change I made to my setup (after the iPad pro): I purchased a peel-and-stick wall mural for the wall behind my head.

Having a non-distracting background is important for remote presentations, but my previous background took it to the extreme: an off-white painted wall with nothing else on it. I had experimented with different office configurations so that I could have chill art, an organized bookcase, or calming plants behind me, but I ended up being constrained by power outlet locations in the room.

But honestly? In spite of those frustrations, the addition of the abstract mural behind me has made the largest positive impact to my remote presentation setup. It hides shadows cast from my bookcase and my gesticulations, highlights me, and is visually interesting without being a distraction. A number of folks have asked if it’s a Zoom background. If you’re looking for a solution to your video call background—or want to avoid having to tidy everything behind you before you hop on an important call—I recommend you consider getting one!

So that covers the physical space changes. What about the digital aspect of remote presenting?

I included a section on how to back up your presentation in my book Demystifying Public Speaking :

“No matter how confident you are that you’ll be able to use your own equipment onstage, prepare for that just in case moment when you’ll need to use someone else’s machine.”

Well, this unfortunate event can happen in a remote context, too :)

I recently gave a talk at an internal event for a Fortune 50 company, and their presentation software had a new bug that wasn’t there the day before during our tech check: they could no longer see my video and my slides at the same time.

With ten minutes to go before I went virtually “onstage,” I suggested that I send their A/V team my backup presentation file, so that they could screenshare the slides while I spoke. My file’s presenter notes included my script, so their team could follow along and advance the slides as my words matched up.

It (mostly) worked! But unfortunately I hadn’t followed every bullet point of my own guidance from Demystifying Public Speaking :

“To avoid this pitfall (and major spike in stress), I suggest two safeties. One, create a backup folder of your files and save it to a physical thumb drive. Two, save the folder online in whatever service you prefer (I use Dropbox) and email the link to yourself. This way, you can quickly forward that link to someone else, if they need your files. Your backups should include:

Your original slide deck (PowerPoint file, Keynote file, HTML, etc.) Any fonts used in your presentation A PDF of your slide deck without notes, so if another person’s laptop can’t run your original deck, you can still show your PDF as slides (though animated GIFs and videos won’t work) A PDF of your slide deck with notes, so you can reference them from a tablet or phone if necessary”

Because I shared the presentation file but not the fonts, some slides were nearly illegible with their computer’s replacement fonts. I shared the PDF of the slides afterwards with all attendees, so at least they eventually knew what the slides should have looked like. ;)

Recording video with your computer

Occasionally, I don’t present live, and instead need to record video. For the video training course , I recorded Zoom calls with colleagues to model different leadership skills. But after some testing I knew that Zoom’s recordings wouldn’t cut it on quality. They looked grainy, any wifi blips meant a blip in the recording, and the audio wasn’t great.

So I decided to record with Quicktime instead. Here are my setup tips for recording yourself using the quality settings built into a Mac:

• Quality: High (not maximum)
• Microphone: Choose the microphone in your headset (or if you have a separate mic, like a Blue Yeti, choose that!)
• Move the volume control all the way to the left
• Lighting : Make sure there’s no bright lights or windows behind your head. If you can face a window or light (so that your face is well-lit), that’s great!
• Background : Neutral walls, art, tidy bookcases, etc. are all fine! You just want to avoid grabbing the viewer’s attention with something other than your face (like words written on a whiteboard behind you).
• Microphone : any headphone mic or non-laptop mic will do! You’re just trying to isolate your voice and cut down on background noise seeping in.

Presentation-wise, all of my remote conference talks have been with A/V teams who decide how my slides and face will appear for the audience. If in the future I want to create my own slides-and-talking-head-video, I’ll try testing out the app Mmhmm .

Oh and if you’re doing video-based internal comms for your distributed team? I recommend you check out the app Breve . I’ve used it and I love it.

Recording video with a DSLR

I used to be a wedding photographer in a previous life, and held onto a bunch of my old equipment. For the video training project, I used an ancient DSLR that still works and can record video.

If you’re going the extra mile and want to step away from your computer to record a talk, I recommend investing in a mirrored teleprompter like the one I mentioned earlier, and an external microphone. Some people love lavalier microphones; I’ve found that I move my head around too much and risk my long hair brushing up against them! For the video training course, I used a Rode shotgun mic on a stand, just offscreen.

The biggest challenge: the lack of audience feedback

All of that setup stuff aside, the biggest difference to me about presenting remotely has been being unable to see or hear my audience.

Here’s a section from Demystifying Public Speaking about reading your audience:

“In my early talks, I didn’t hear laughter—not because the crowd was silent, but because I was too nervous and focused on my delivery to notice anything else. These days, I’m able to devote more brain space to reading the room (and registering laughs at my jokes). I can take stock of nods, ‘ahs’ of understanding, and whether people are leaning toward me to listen intently.”

This spidey sense took patience and experience to develop, but it’s useless if you can’t see or hear the audience. When I’m hosting a remote workshop now, I encourage people to keep their cameras on, because I lead lots of interactive exercises with a group. But for remote talks? There’s no good reason for people listening to keep their cameras on!

It’s important to me that folks listening remotely are able to keep their cameras off, if they’d like to. It’s a privacy issue, and it can also free them up to listen while taking a walk or caretaking for someone else in their house. And in larger dial-in events, it’s impossible to see your audience anyway.

So, whenever it’s possible, I ask one person who will be attending the event to be my camera-on buddy. I’m fortunate to know enough people at these events or at these companies that I can ask them if they’d be game to listen in and keep their camera on, so I can have just one cheerleader there in the otherwise-invisible crowd. I glance at them and am always encouraged if I see them nodding or grinning while listening to me present.

If you aren’t close enough with any individuals to ask for their help with this, try this brilliant approach from a professor :

“I gave them my best estimates: that when less than 1/3 of students had their cameras off, there was no impact on my teaching. That I could feel a significant worsening at 1/2. And that once it got above 2/3 cameras-off, I felt wholly cut-off and unable to be responsive. “The result this term: my classes are staying mostly below 1/3 cameras-off. No policy, no further comments from me, no enforcement or pleading. And I think it’s a bit self-regulating - sometimes the % of cameras-off drifts up, and then a few students will turn their cams back on.”

If you’re listening to a remote speaker and want to especially support them, turn your camera on! I know it’s not always possible—but when it is, it makes all the difference.

In the interest of transparency!

Total remote presentation setup improvement costs

• Elgato Key Light: $200
• iPad Pro: $900
• Logitech ClearChat Comfort/USB Headset H390: $25
• Minted removable wall mural: $360

Additional costs for the video training course recording setup

• Caddie Buddy Teleprompter: $165
• Rode VideoMic NTG On-Camera Shotgun Microphone: $250
• My ancient Canon 5D MkII DSLR: Technically free

Author, public speaker, and coach for managers and leaders across the tech industry.

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Top Tips For Preparing And Delivering A Remote Presentation

For better or for worse, virtual meetings have become the new norm. Just because you don’t have access to a conference room doesn’t mean that presentations are cancelled. In fact, using presentations to share your story may be even more valuable than ever. With teams relying heavily on virtual communication, a presentation allows you to share project updates, agendas, pitches, or information in a clear and concise way. Not only can you deliver a virtual presentation during a meeting, but you can send the deck as a follow up to ensure everyone is on the same page after the fact (in case they weren’t following along, it happens). Sure, delivering a remote presentation isn’t the same as doing it in person, but it can be just as effective if you do it right. 

You may feel more at ease presenting behind your computer screen, but the same best practices apply as if you were doing it face-to-face. The stakes are just as high, but you’re actually at a bit of a disadvantage presenting remote (plot twist). There are far more distractions for remote audiences than there are with audiences stuck in an auditorium. For example, your audience may have their kids at home, a loud neighbor, or a time-sensitive notification on their computer buzzing in the background. Because of this it’s important to engage said audience, even through a screen. Use the same energy and animation you would on stage or in a conference room. It’s also a good idea to do a few dry runs to make sure the technology works properly. After all, nothing kills a presentation faster than technical difficulties at go-time. Sound easy enough?

Don’t get ahead of yourself. First, you have to prepare your physical presentation. Since your team can’t be in the same room to riff on ideas, collaboration and communication becomes essential for preparing a remote presentation. Being able to upload shared files, make edits, provide feedback in real-time, and comment on slides can cut the design process down by avoiding lengthy email chains or chat threads. 

Here are five easy hacks in Beautiful.ai to make creating a remote presentation more seamless and efficient. 

Video upload

‍ Some teams have proprietary media that they may want to include in their presentation without putting it out there on the interweb for others to find. If that’s the case, our video upload feature is your new best friend. Upload an exclusive video showcasing your product, a new feature or line, or service, directly from your files and add it to your slide. This cuts out third party video hosting sites, and makes the design process more seamless. Plus, video is a great way to engage your audience and grab their attention (when they may be distracted by their neighbor cutting the lawn out the window). 

Workflow integrations

In our new norm, teams are relying on their workflows to keep them connected. Beautiful.ai’s new integrations (coming soon!) will allow you to access company files like brand colors, logos, or images from your current file management system so that your presentation remains on-brand with just a few clicks. This will allow you to quickly apply a brand theme to your presentation without having to email the team’s art director for assets. Collaboration and sharing are essential parts of the presentation workflow and we understand that many people already use tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Slack to create, manage and share their documents. We’re excited to integrate Beautiful.ai with your existing workflows so you can continue (or start) using the best presentation tool available without missing a collaborative beat.

Comments and notifications

‍ Beautiful.ai makes collaboration simple and easy with comments and notifications. Now you can work in sync with colleagues or clients on the same presentation. Simply add a collaborator to your presentation, and build the deck together. When a collaborator makes an edit or adds a comment to a slide, you’ll be notified both in the product and via email. This ensures everyone is on the same page, even from afar. Comments and notifications are a game changer when you can’t poke your head into someone’s office with quick feedback or a hot tip. 

Audio Recording

‍ Our newest feature, audio recording, allows you to narrate your story. Add a voice-over to each slide and tell your audience exactly what you want them to learn from your presentation. Even if you can’t present live, you’ll still be able to add personality and context to your deck. Since you can’t take cues from a live audience, make an effort to pace yourself and time your speech with any animations in your presentation. Consider doing a sound check before you send your deck off, too.

Editable PowerPoint

‍ Sometimes your work ecosystem lives in Microsoft. We get it (kind of). After you’ve finished your presentation and are ready to send it off or present it to your colleagues or clients, you can export it to PowerPoint. This allows you to create a professional presentation in a fraction of the time in Beautiful.ai, while saving it in a PowerPoint compatible file. Last minute change? Your Beautiful.ai presentation is editable in the PowerPoint software. Make sure all of your fonts and animations transfer over, and do a quick check for any elements that may be out-of-place.

The rest is up to you. 

Jordan Turner

Jordan is a Bay Area writer, social media manager, and content strategist.

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7 Tips for a Captivating Remote Presentation

In terms of their personal fears, most people rank public speaking higher than death. The level of trepidation most of us feel when the spotlight is on us is strong—and if we don’t have much experience in speaking with authority in front of others, it can seem all the more frightening.

For remote professionals, the scenario may seem different on the surface. What’s so worrisome when you’re behind a screen in a familiar, comfortable environment? Whether you’re leading a public-facing webinar or working through a client presentation, you’ll still likely face a variety of challenges even in your preferred workspace .

Here are my seven recommended components to making a killer impression the next time it’s your turn to make a remote presentation:

Confident and concise introductions..

A strong start will go a long way in commanding others’ attention and respect as you launch into your talk. But first, you’ve got to show your appreciation for their time by making your introduction—that is, the “about you” sentence or two and the overview of your topic—short and punchy. Too many speakers unnecessarily lengthen this lead-in as if they need a runway for takeoff. Instead, keep your introduction to 90 seconds or less, and you’ll have won your audience over before you’ve even truly begun.

Thoughtful slide design and imagery.

There’s so much to say about this that it’s difficult to know where to begin, other than to recommend prioritizing sensitivity for others’ needs and perspectives above all. Make sure slide text contains enough of a color contrast and is legible. Use fewer words and more photos or illustrations. If you’d like to include people, select images that reflect more diverse groups. Also watch out for stock photos where only men appear to be speaking, or sports-related selections that may come across as ableist for those with disabilities.

A compelling narrative.

Think of the last time you heard a memorable talk; what stood out to you? I’m betting it was a story. Depending upon your line of work, what you’re discussing may not be the world’s most inspiring topic, but you most certainly can and should make it more interesting by weaving in a good story . Relying on numbers alone to get your point across simply won’t work as well. Studies have shown that we’re better able to retain and recall stories rather than statistics, so bring your data home with a personal anecdote or tale that will resonate.

A technical backup plan.

You may not be a troubleshooting wizard, but in this day and age there’s no excuse for allowing a common glitch to totally sideline your polished webinar or slide deck. Being prepared to resolve the most likely technical issues is key , even if it means switching to a second medium. Common difficulties can range from screen-sharing malfunctions, audio problems, low bandwidth, high latency for video streaming, and conferencing technology failure—but if you’re adaptable, you’ll be able to roll with the punches.

An audience-centered presentation.

It’s your show, but the focus should be on what your listeners and viewers will get out of this. From the moment you begin conceptualizing your talk until your last practice run, you’ll want to ensure that the benefits of investing their time are clear throughout. Presenters who prioritize their audience’s needs will have the best odds of holding their attention from the introduction to the thank yous—and will likely benefit more from networking and resource sharing opportunities afterwards.

Organized Q&A sessions.

Even the most engaging demos and lectures can fall flat at the end if a question-and-answer session is mishandled. Giving your viewers an opportunity to participate is a fantastic way to secure immediate feedback and to satisfy any burning questions. Offer clear instructions regarding when and how participants can submit queries, including in what order they’ll be addressed, as well as ways to reach you if time runs out. If folks are shy, have a few FAQs ready to share to encourage involvement.

Habits to avoid.

With remote speaking engagements, much of the same best practices from face-to-face scenarios apply. Here’s a quick checklist on how to avoid some common remote fails :

• Don’t read your slides or rely on them fully to convey your points (again, in case of tech failure);
• Watch out for distracting vocal or facial tics, including the excessive usage of filler words during pauses or less-than-confident qualifiers;
• Speak at a slower cadence than that of your normal conversational speech;
• Avoid repetitive or grandiose hand gestures, as this can detract from your credibility and/or seem out of place in the context of a computer screen;
• Be mindful of your appearance, if on video, including appropriate dress and grooming, as well as your backdrop (clutter doesn’t look good on camera!).

Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com

By Kristi DePaul | Categories: Work Remotely

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Master the Digital Stage in 2024 with These 12 Remote Presentation Best Practices

Remote presentation best practices to captivate and engage your audience. Choose to win your audience's hearts with your next virtual presentation.

Remote presentation best practices to captivate and engage your audience. Choose to win your audience's hearts with your next virtual presentation.

Table of Contents

Who had ever thought that a small virus would change the world entirely and the person-to-person business processes and face-to-face meetings would turn digital just in a matter of a few months? Even now, when the situation is back to normal, in-person meetings seem to be a thing of the past.

Online or virtual presentations have already found their place in our day-to-day professional life. In such a scenario, it would not be wrong to say that remote presentations are the new normal.

Presenting behind your computer screen may sound easy, but it has its own set of disadvantages - technical difficulties and a distracted audience being the biggest ones. But worry not! You can easily sail through it by following some best practices and tips that we have covered in this blog post. Read on!

Pre-presentation tips

Here are 12 best practices for giving a remote presentation confidently.

1. Determine the presentation objectives

"If you don't know what you want to achieve in your presentation your audience never will." - Harvey Diamond

What’s the outcome that you want to achieve through your presentation? Finding the right answer to this question will help you craft a truly valuable presentation worth the audience’s time.

Pitching a new business idea to investors to raise funds, making the customers aware of a newly added feature to an existing product, educating the employees about new technology, and so on - your presentation must have a relevant purpose or goal. This goal provides you with a roadmap to structure your presentation further.

2. Choose a good template

Once you have determined the goal of your presentation, the next you must choose the template that best serves your purpose. The pre-designed slide templates with 100% editability features help you save time, enhance corporate branding, and provide consistency to your slides.

Besides the goal, you must also consider your audience and content before finalizing any template. For example, if you want to present the performance of your marketing campaign to company executives, you prefer a professional-looking and minimalist template having a lot of space for charts and graphs. Contrary to this, if you want to educate your students, choose a colourful and animated template that makes learning fun for them.

3. Incorporate high-quality graphics

Pixel-perfect graphics complement the textual information and make it easy for you to communicate your message effectively. However, it’s important to use relevant graphics that support your presentation visually instead of ruining it. For example, if you want to showcase developments and trends over time, use line charts. But line charts won’t work if you want to display frequency distributions. Here you will have to use histograms.

Avoid overburdening your slides with graphics, and don’t incorporate them just for the sake of decorating your presentation. Use graphics only if they add value to your content.

4. Choose the apt hosting platform

The hosting platform you choose plays an indispensable role in the success of your virtual presentation. With lots of hosting platforms available, such as Webex, Zoom, Google Meet, and GoToWebinar, it’s quite difficult to find the best one for your presentation. Here are a few tips that will ease your work -

• The hosting platform should have all the required features and capability to manage the bandwidth and traffic to deliver your presentation smoothly.
• It should be compatible with the presentation software you are using.
• It must be completely secured to ensure your presentation and audience's data are protected from unauthorized access.
• It must have analytics features to help you track audience engagement and measure the success of your presentation.

5. Allot some time for a Q&A session

Keeping the audience engaged and interested is one of the biggest challenges in virtual presentations. One way to keep your audience active throughout the presentation is by asking them to raise questions.

By allocating a dedicated time for the Q&A session , you can reap many benefits - you can engage and interact with your audience, provide additional information that has not been covered in your slides, address any concerns they may have, and get an idea of how sincerely they have listened to you.

6. Check background adjustments and camera

A pile of files or laundry or the child playing in the background may cost your audience’s attention, portraying you as an unprofessional speaker. Therefore, to avoid any such scenario, you must proactively choose a setting with a neutral background and free of any clutter or distraction. If possible, choose a place with natural lighting, as it can make a big difference.

Check the angle of your camera beforehand and ensure that it is positioned at your eye level to make proper eye contact with your audience.

7. Hide bookmarks and irrelevant tabs proactively

If your presentation requires screen sharing with the audience, close all irrelevant applications, tabs, and windows. Also, turn off or mute Slack/email/calendar or other notifications and hide bookmarks to get the undivided attention of your audience.

To provide a better experience and minimize the chances of accidentally clicking on the wrong tab, use a separate browser window to deliver your virtual presentation.

8. Rehearse well

Practice and rehearsal can help you uncover weak areas, prepare for technical issues, and improve your gestures and body language. It also aids you in mastering time management skills and concluding your presentation within the allotted time. Practicing well in advance will make you more comfortable and confident on your big day.

Tips to follow during the presentation

Here are some tips to remember throughout your presentation.

9. Vary your tone and modulation

The tonal quality of your voice may make or break your virtual presentation. No matter how good your content is and how structured your slides are, nothing will help you if you fail to vary your tone and modulation effectively. So, don’t speak too fast or too slow.

Use inflection (i.e., variation in pitch and tone of your voice) to create excitement, suspense, or drama in your story and convey urgency, enthusiasm, or importance of key points. Also, don’t forget to take pauses to break the monotony of a continuous stream of words and allow time for the audience to absorb the presented information.

10. Pay heed to your body language and gestures

Gestures and body language matter a lot in virtual presentations, as what we communicate is expressed and conveyed more through facial expressions and body language than the actual words we utter.

Here are a few tips -

• Don’t lean into the camera or over the desk; sit upright.
• Avoid touching your hair or face, as it will portray you unprepared and nervous.
• Instead of looking here and there, look at the camera.
• To make the atmosphere constructive and positive, greet your audience members with a smile.
• Avoid staring, yawning, frowning, or any other hostile facial expression.

11. Be inclusive

You can choose the translation feature of the software and avoid using jargon or complicated words to make your content accessible to audience members of different native languages and learning levels. Address the audience members with their respective names to add a personal touch.

You can also record your presentation and share it with the audience. It can be useful for audience members with cognitive disabilities who can go through the recorded presentation anytime, slow down the speed, and understand particular segments.

12. Mute microphones when not speaking

Muting your microphone when an audience member asks a question is a sign of respect you have toward him/her. It allows them to speak without being distracted or interrupted by background noise. Moreover, it helps you listen to and understand their concerns clearly.

Final takeaway

Undoubtedly, this new normal has brought unusual shifts in the business landscape, but at the same time, it has given professionals an opportunity to shine as a presenter. So, leverage it to the fullest!

Remember, the more time you invest in crafting and practicing your presentation, the less effort you will have to exert to deliver it to your audience. A well-prepared and well-delivered virtual presentation can earn you brownie points and help you establish yourself as a seasoned speaker.

Hope this article helps you prepare well for your upcoming online presentation.

6 Creative Employee Networking Ideas to Cultivate Stronger Bonds Among Your Team

55 inspiring international hr day quotes to celebrate hr professionals, unlock the biggest secret of engagement to retain your top performers., -->guest contributor -->.

We often come across some fantastic writers who prefer to publish their writings on our blogs but prefer to stay anonymous. We dedicate this section to all superheroes who go the extra mile for us.

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How To Give Remote Presentations Without Feeling Super Awkward

The dos and don’ts.

These days, you’re more and more likely to find yourself giving a remote presentation to a virtual roomful of colleagues or clients. Remote work is a growing trend across the world, and it has rapidly become a new reality for millions of people with the COVID-19 outbreak forcing many to stay home and adapt to life outside of the office.

All of this working from home means that the presentations you used to give to a group of people in a conference room now have to happen digitally. Public speaking is scary enough, but giving a conference call presentation can be even more intimidating! Especially if you’re worried about technology cooperating.

Sound like full-blown anxiety meltdown material? Relax—it’s not! Remote presentations are different than conventional, in-person meetings, but it’s helpful to keep things in perspective. Even if you are new to working from home , giving a conference call presentation is still just sharing ideas with others. So, if you have experience presenting in person you’ll be able to make the transition to a virtual meeting setting with a few minor tweaks.

To make your video conferencing meeting the best possible, we’ve put together this two-part guide to the top remote presentation tools and effective virtual meeting tips, including dos and don’ts from online professionals and how to get through even the worst worst-case scenario.

📌 Ready to go all in? Get our latest, most comprehensive resource on remote work: The Remote Work Mega Guide

Part One: Choosing your remote presentation tools

Video conferencing, creating presentations, engaging your audience, part two: tips for giving great remote presentations, prepare the tech for your remote presentation in advance, get the space for your remote presentation ready, keep in mind who you’re talking to in your remote presentation, remember you’re on camera during your remote presentation.

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Choosing your remote presentation tools

If you’re not used to attending or arranging meetings online, figuring out the technology can feel like a huge hurdle.

To get you started, these are our favorite tools out there for hosting virtual meetings and giving video conference call presentations:

Trying to find a time for your remote meeting can feel more intimidating than the meeting itself. But nowadays there are plenty of tools to take the hassle out of scheduling.

Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook Calendar , for example, both have a built-in feature to find the best time for a group to get together. Or check out these tools to clear up time zone confusion:

• Doodle – platform for participants to share their availability for meetings
• The World Clock – simple way to quickly check the time in multiple cities
• timeanddate.com – huge selection of scheduling calculators, including an event time announcer to make it clear what time your meeting will be in any location

If your company or organization hasn’t already chosen one, you can pick from lots of conference call meeting services like:

• Zoom – our favorite, for its features that make interacting easy
• Google Hangouts – a tried and true free tool
• Microsoft Teams Meetings – integrates seamlessly with other Office 365 tools and services

You can also look at Skype , GoToMeeting , and Blue Jeans for more options.

To make the slides or other visuals for your presentation, you can use tools from Google ( Slides ), Microsoft ( PowerPoint ), or Apple ( Keynote ). Or try some with a twist like:

• Prezi – templates and drag-and-drop design to make visually unique presentations
• SlideDog – combines media like PDFs, video, websites, spreadsheets, etc. into a presentation package
• Visme – good-looking graphics and interactive content

And, if you really want to keep people interested in your presentation, consider collaborative tools like:

• digital whiteboards from Microsoft Whiteboard or Miro
• group mind mapping with Lucidchart or MindMeister
• polling and q&a with Poll Everywhere or Slido

Tips for giving great remote presentations

Now that you have tools to make presenting online easier, let’s dig into four of the most important ways you can overcome the challenges of getting your point across virtually.

Before you make your virtual presentations, you can—and you should!— make sure your tools and equipment are good to go.

Use a mic or headphones Cybersecurity specialist Gary Bushey ( Gary Bushey LLC ) suggests following up your desk solution with a reliable microphone.

The Blue Yeti is an excellent free-standing, USB-powered mic for about $130, but even the earbuds that came with your phone will do a better job at delivering your voice clearly and cutting down background noise than your computer’s built-in mic.

Get set up Have your laptop charged up or, better yet, plugged in and notification sounds and pop-ups turned off to prevent unwanted surprises during your presentation. Double check that all the software and files you need are downloaded and updated.

And set a reminder to shut down any unnecessary windows and programs while you’re presenting and ask your family or roommates to hold off on streaming videos or games so you have the best possible connection for any working from home meetings.

(Tip: The One Tab Chrome extension or Safari’s multiple bookmarks option is a fast way to hide but still save tabs from your browser.)

Do a test run Plan time for getting your tools running and doing the final edits on your presentation. Then try out all the tech you’ll be using and review your slides at least a day or so in advance so you have time to fix any issues or make any changes you need to.

If it’s your first video presentation, ask a teammate who’s experienced with them to work with you to check your set-up and troubleshoot any issues.

Even though you won’t be in the same room as your audience, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to think about the space you’ll be in for your remote presentation.

Adjust your background Make sure there’s nothing visible that’s blatantly unprofessional or distracting—for instance, I make sure my laundry basket and dishes from lunch aren’t on-screen whenever I meet with our editorial team.

And be sure that your lighting isn’t shining straight into the camera or throwing any dark shadows. (Tip: A window or a lamp facing you gives the best effect.)

Get some privacy Try to keep any pets, kids, or other folks who happen to be home out of the room while you’re presenting. As much as you love them, a cameo from them probably isn’t appropriate now.

And if a toddler does come running during your video call, it’s not the end of the world. Remember this viral video of the BBC reporter whose children interrupted his interview ? “Most people understand,” Bushey says. You should simply take a quick pause to usher your unwanted guest along.

Stand up Take advantage of an upright desk or other way to avoid sitting while you speak. John Nicholson, Principal at Marketade , says, in his experience, standing instantly puts you into presentation mode. It gives you a boost of energy and confidence, and it keeps you alert and ready to react.

One of the unique aspects of virtual conferences is that they give you a chance to work with new colleagues and diverse talent from all over the world that you otherwise wouldn’t work with. So, it’s worth taking advantage of this.

Connect with the humans in the virtual room When you give a presentation in an actual conference room, chances are, you don’t just dive right in. You start with casual small talk, or, even better, by asking how others are doing. Opening up in this way builds a connection between you and the people you’re presenting to. Beyond that, it gives you a hint as to where people are at, which means you can reach them better while speaking.

You can do the same before a virtual presentation—rather than jumping in, take a minute to acknowledge the humans present on the conference call. If a joke feels fitting, you can make one to lighten the mood.

Whatever you do, find a way to connect with the other members of the call before starting your scheduled programming.

Watch the clock Just because there isn’t another team waiting outside the door for the next meeting, that doesn’t mean that you should ignore how long your presentation takes. “Everyone’s time is valuable and needs to be respected” says Alexis Davis, Founder and CEO at Hoo-Kong.

Listen to your audience Because you might be presenting to people you don’t usually interact with and it’s easy to accidentally talk over someone in a video meeting, pause for a second before you reply to a question or comment. And don’t worry if it gets ominously quiet.

Nicholson says it’s natural to assume a lingering silence or a subdued response during a call means you’re losing your audience—but this assumption is often a mistake, and you should avoid repeating yourself excessively or giving unsolicited explanations. Instead, if nobody has any questions, simply say “Fantastic! Let’s move on.”

You’re giving a presentation—how could you possibly not remember that people are looking at you? But, between sharing your screen, trying to follow comments in chat, and getting through your talking points, it’s actually not unusual to forget that you’re being watched.

Give yourself a cue If you’re scanning your notes or looking at another monitor, your audience might think you’re not paying attention. And, even when you are, it’s easy to focus on watching your own image instead of looking at the camera.

Avoid these distracting habits by simply sticking a note above your webcam that reminds you to “Look Here!”.

Be aware of what you’re sharing Kindra Svendsen, Director of Digital Marketing Services at Speak Creative , says she’s witnessed plenty of goofs when clients don’t realize they’re visible or when a presenter accidentally shares a window with personal info in it.

Bushey recommends preventing this by clearing out anything on your computer’s desktop or browser that you don’t want seen.

(Tip: You can tidy up your computer quickly by moving any desktop files into one folder to sort out later.)

Compensate for missing signals Not having body language to back up your message can be a tricky part of remote presentations. While Bushey says he always tries to use a conferencing platform like Zoom or Google Hangouts that lets you see your audience, shifts in posture, gestures, and vocal nuances are harder to pick up on video.

And there’s always the issue of people who opt to turn their camera off. To get past this, Davis suggests pausing after every few points to ask for comments or questions.

What if something goes wrong during my virtual presentation?

But what happens if—despite all your prep—something goes really wrong during an online presentation? We all make mistakes, and sometimes something totally out of your control can happen. The secret to surviving is how you respond when the unexpected occurs.

Cristian Rennella, CEO and Co-Founder of elMejoTrato.com , shares a perfect example of this: “I was presenting our services to a very large international client that for months we’d wanted to move forward in the sales cycle,” Rennella says. In the middle of this important presentation, the largest earthquake Rennella’s city had experienced in 80 years hit out of nowhere, but of course his clients on the other end of the video call had no idea what was happening. “At that moment, I honestly didn’t know what to do,” Rennella says. “[Do I] say [something about] it and stop the presentation, or not say anything and continue?”

Even though it felt like the world was ending on his side of the remote conference, Rennella decided to keep going and finish his presentation, a strange experience that sticks with him to this day. “Luckily everything ended well—no lights [went out, we kept our] internet, [and no one in our office] personally suffered any problems.” And, on top of that, Rennella’s presentation led to a continued working relationship with the client, who’s now the company’s biggest account.

Of course, no one will fault you for stopping and dropping in a situation like that, but Rennella’s story is an example of how reacting calmly can get you through.

Whatever happens, your audience is human too, and, especially with so many of us working from home during quarantine, we all know that sometimes working and presenting remotely means planning for the unplanned.

This article is based on an earlier Skillcrush piece by Scott Morris.

Kelli Smith

Category: Blog , Career Change , Remote Work

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14 Tips for Effective Remote Presentations

As the prevalence of remote work increases, it has never been more important to effectively present digitally. Whether you are showcasing an analysis, pitching for business, leading a brainstorm, or anything else, these 14 tips will maximize your efforts.

Professional and Theatrical Tips

• Set the Stage
• Signpost Early and Often
• Pause and Read the Room
• Don’t Put People on the Spot
• Take Notes in a Physical Notebook
• Record the Meeting
• Watch the Clock
• Have a Wingman

Visual and Technical Tips

• Hide and Organize Browser Bookmarks
• Hide Other Tabs
• Hide the Ribbon
• Mute Microphones When Not Speaking
• Zoom In and Out as Needed
• Mute Notifications

1.  Set the Stage

It is vital to set the stage at the top of the meeting. Audience members are less likely to jump in and interrupt or ask questions during a remote presentation, so it is key to set expectations ahead of time. Always take the time to set the tone and the ground rules for your time together. What can your audience expect to walk away with? What are your goals? Will there be time to ask questions at the end, or would you prefer them throughout?

2.  Signpost Early and Often

Signposting is a communication technique used to give an audience an indication of progress through a narrative. For example, this is tip 2 out of 14 in this blog post. You know how far through the post you are, and when it will end. If you are showcasing 3 opportunities to an audience in a slide deck, then let them know that there are 3 opportunities at the beginning, and iterate which point you are emphasizing as you go along. This helps to avoid the dreaded, “when will this be over?”.

3.  Pause and Read the Room

Without a doubt, reading the room is much harder virtually. At the same time, it is also easier for your audience to get distracted, and to ignore your presentation altogether. Encourage a “cameras-on culture”, and be extra sure to pause for questions and to monitor facial expressions. If cameras start turning off, that’s a sign that you’re losing the audience.

4.  Don’t Put People on the Spot

In remote meetings, it can be tempting to ask people direct questions or to deflect questions to others. If you are asked a question and you need to pass it to a teammate, don’t throw them a hot potato. Mention their name, and provide some context in case they weren’t paying attention. For example, instead of “Ryan, what do you think about that?”, try “Ryan, we are considering the benefits of X over Y in the context of Z, what are your thoughts?”.

5.  Take Notes in a Physical Notebook

If you are sharing your screen, consider taking notes in a physical notebook. It is likely that you will want to take down notes and action items, but you don’t want your audience to see your internal scratch sheet. Instead of flashing your notes on the screen, or worse yet - not taking notes at all, have a physical notebook handy to take down the important items. It is also obvious if you are writing physical notes while on a webcam, which avoids the always awkward ambiguous pause while you stare at your screen and type notes.

6. Record the Meeting

If possible, record the meeting. This allows the audience to be more present and not focused on taking notes. The recording can be provided for those who weren’t able to make it live. Watching your game film isn’t always fun, but is an important exercise that you can use to improve your presentation skills.

7.  Watch the Clock

Make sure to adhere to the time constraints of the meeting. Though your audience may be remote and don’t have to walk across the office to their next meeting, it is still courteous to provide a buffer for folks to take a break before their next commitment. For true presentation mastery, you can combine signposting with clock-watching, ie: “we are halfway through our hour, so I am going to keep moving so that we can get through everything”. Make sure to end your presentation with enough time at the end for questions and a recap of next steps.

8.  Have a Wingman

Sometimes you’ll have to present solo, but having a wingman on a call can be hugely beneficial. Designate them as the notetaker and room-watcher. Make sure to empower them to ask you clarifying questions on the fly if they pick up on audience confusion. They can also serve as your clock-watcher and technical QA as well. Just be sure to communicate your expectations of them upfront.

9.  Hide and Organize Browser Bookmarks

One of the most common unprofessional mistakes that I see during remote presentations is not hiding disorganized and potentially incriminating browser bookmarks. You should organize your bookmarks proactively to ensure that they are properly representing you. If you work with multiple clients, or on sensitive projects, you should nest them within a generic folder so they are never present on your screen at a glance. Your seemingly harmless client bookmark could violate an NDA if seen. Once your bookmarks are organized, you can hide them (in Google Chrome) with the shortcut CTRL+SHIFT+B, or by right-clicking on the bookmarks bar and unchecking “Show bookmarks bar”. Along with added security, this also makes your presentation screen larger if you are presenting from a browser window.

10.  Hide Other Tabs

Along the same lines, if you are presenting from a browser window, you should only have tabs open that are relevant to the presentation at hand. I recommend opening a new browser window for your presentation and organizing your tabs in the order that you will show them. This ensures that you aren’t exposing any non-presentation-specific information. You also probably don’t want your audience to see that you have 300+ unread emails in your inbox.

11.  Hide the Ribbon

12.  Mute Microphones When Not Speaking

Both as a presenter and observer, it is crucial to mute your microphone when not speaking. Many USB microphones have handheld remotes that allow you to mute separately from the meeting application for added convenience. If you dial in from your phone, I recommend keeping it unlocked on your desk and pressing mute and unmute as you go.

13.  Zoom In and Out as Needed

When you bring up your presentation window, be sure to ask the audience if they are able to read what you have on your screen. In most applications, you can easily zoom with the CTRL key and +/-. Additionally, keep in mind that there is often a lag between your screen and what your audience sees if you are scrolling a document or moving around a spreadsheet.

14.  Mute Notifications

There’s always that one coworker who sends unsolicited chats at the worst times. Don’t let them derail your presentation - mute notifications on (or just close) Slack, Google Hangouts, etc. prior to joining a call. Also remember to close your calendar and email tabs, and any other application that sends you notifications.

Good luck in your next meeting!

Do you have other tips that you’ve found beneficial for presenting work remotely? Let us know!

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12 Do's and Don'ts for hosting a remote presentation

With collaboration, coordination, and entire business operations going digital, remote presentations have become the go-to format for sharing ideas. Remote presentations can include hosting webinars, e-lectures, virtual trainings, and web-conferences, and these are usually considered to be as effective as live presentations. This is true because as a presenter you can share your content with a teammate,  a client, or a stakeholder from anywhere and at anytime.

  However, there are a few best practices to remember while hosting a remote presentation.

  1. Do prepare with a dry-run and tech trial

One of the most important steps before presenting is to do a trial run and test your meeting software to make sure it’s compatible with your presentation tool. Learn the technical functionalities in and out and ensure the web cam settings and audio clarity are in sync so you can present without any disruptions.

  2. Don’t schedule your presentation in the late working hours

Hosting a presentation at the end of the workday will give your audience a not-so-exciting experience, as they are already tired after a long day of tasks and meetings. The best time to schedule a virtual event is in the morning, as it drives maximum engagement. However, consult with your team or your audience on their preferable time slots before sending out an invitation to make sure attendees will be available.

  3. Do maintain a calm and engaging body language

With in-person presentation, the presenter can present while standing in front of their audience, which allows for free, natural movement. However, an online session is usually done in a seated position leaning towards the camera, and the audience can see only the upper part of the presenter’s body. Maintain a steady posture while presenting and don’t restrict yourself to a stiff upper body position. Use calm gestures to be engaging (but not distracting) and remember to keep your body language casual while maintaining professionalism.

  3. Don’t go lengthy with your session

Keep your content precise and engaging. Many experts suggest that the 10-20-30 rule (10 slides, 20 minutes, and 30 font size) as a good metric for presentations. Try not to exceed 20 minutes or at least be sure to deliver your key information and ideas within this duration as the optimal attention span of most audiences is said to be within this range.

  5. Do document or record the presentation

Recording your session will allow people who couldn’t attend to access it at a later time. This would also give the opportunity for the attendees to revisit your material any time in the future. You can also go through the recorded presentation to review your performance and see what to improve for the next session.

6. Don’t go for flashy and complicated visuals

Visuals are an important aid to presenting your content effectively. Choose the right visuals that illustrate your information and make your points memorable. Keep your slides minimalist and engaging to avoid distracting from your topic.

  7. Do close unnecessary taskbars and windows

Make sure to close your taskbars and other windows during your presentation. Keeping irrelevant tabs open while switching tabs will distract your audience and can seem unprofessional. Even if you have everything set up in your slides, chances are you may have to share your screen or open new tabs to answer questions or resolve queries during audience interaction session.

  8. Don’t present impromptu or unprepared

While the process of preparation might be the same for live and remote sessions, chances are you might have to present on short notice based on the availability of your team. Preparation is the key to answering the questions your audience may have. Take as much time as possible to rehearse delivering your points with use cases and case studies.

9. Do schedule a Q&A or an interactive session at the end of your presentation

Offer Q&A sessions at the end of your presentation. Unlike live presentations, resolving audience questions right away in a remote setup can be a tedious task. Inform your audience at the beginning of the presentation that you’ll end with a Q&A session and ask them to write down all their questions to ask at the end.

  10. Don’t forget to reiterate key points

Always end your session with a final note summarizing key points, reiterating your core message, and with a call to action (next steps) stating what you expect your audience to do. Some of the best ways to use the End slide is to give a powerful quote, tell a quick story, or even ask a rhetorical question to leave your audience with a final impactful thought.

  11. Do follow up with your audience

Another imperative post-session task is to follow up with your audience for their feedback and suggestions for the next event. This can be sent as a survey link or an email along with a link to the recorded presentation. The feedback from your viewers will help you prepare for your upcoming session.

  12. Don’t forget to have fun!

One of the challenges in remote presentation is building rapport with your audience. Thus, it is important to make your session interactive and fun while maintaining professionalism. Work on livening up your tone and approach to keep the experience light and memorable.

Presenting online does offer different challenges than the more traditional in-person format, but with proper preparation and planning, your remote presentation can be just as successful, if not more. These points are some of the best practices to implement for your next virtual event to deliver a memorable session.

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Best Presentation Remotes for Windows PCs in 2022

What are the best wireless presentation remotes for PC? These are.

If you're giving a big presentation, the ability to move and interact more with your audience is incredibly valuable. If you have to awkwardly stand up behind your laptop the whole time, it's nowhere near as engaging.

You need a reliable presentation remote that connects easily and travels well. Here are our recommendations for the best options for PCs.

Satechi Bluetooth Smart Pointer

Logitech r800, kensington k33374usa.

Why you can trust Windows Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

I work for a well-traveled magician on the side, and we never go anywhere without our Satechi Bluetooth Smart Pointers. He's gone through three brands, and Satechi has always stood out as the best. The remote connects via Bluetooth and has a fantastic range. (We've generally had great luck between 20 and 30 feet).

If you're clicking through a slideshow and need to go back to a specific slide, there's a handy number pad hidden behind a little slide-out door. If you enter the number of the slide, it'll go back for you, which is incredibly handy when music misfires for a magic trick and you need to try to recapture the wonder.

My whole show rides on my presentation triggering properly, and the Satechi remote has been the only one I've used that works every time — Chris Funk, The Wonderist

You can also control music playback, skip tracks and slides, and control the volume of your device, so you don't need to be anywhere near your computer to do what you need to. These remotes are $45 on Amazon and come in black or silver.

See at Amazon

The Logitech R800 features a bright green laser pointer that's easy to see in any room, and the USB wireless receiver should allay any worries you might feel using a Bluetooth remote. With a 100-foot range, you're free to move about as you please without worrying about losing your connection.

The R800 has an LCD display that features a timer, which delivers silent vibrational alerts, so you can keep track of time without having to disengage from your audience. The large buttons are easy to navigate without having to look, and you'll get solid battery life from just two AAA batteries. Pricing starts around $50.

Doosl's presentation remote is a little thicker than a pen, but it'll still fit comfortably in your pocket, and its hook helps it stay in place so you always know where it is. It features a laser pointer, so you can get the whole room focused on what matters, and it has great page-up and page-down support, as well as play, pause, and black screen controls for PowerPoint presentations.

The universal receiver means you can just plug in and go — no driver or pairing is required. Just in case you forget to turn off your Doosl, it features auto standby and "deep sleep" modes to conserve battery. Pricing starts at only $15.

Kensington's $30-ish wireless presenter is designed to be ergonomic, with a comfortable in-hand feel and a simple button layout that allows you to switch back and forth between slides and use the laser pointer without needing to constantly look down at your hand.

The mini USB receiver fits in the remote's housing, so it never gets lost, and you don't need to pair the remote with your computer or install a driver — just plug it in and away you go. The receiver has a 60-foot range, so you'll be able to move about the room with confidence, knowing you'll stay connected.

Aside from its wicked cool name, the DinoFire presentation remote is an awesome, pen-sized device that uses an RF receiver to communicate with your computer. It can control PowerPoint, the whole iWork suite, Word, and Excel, so if you're giving any sort of business presentation, you're covered. And at only around $14, you can grab a couple for the road.

This remote runs on one AAA battery, and that's either convenient because you don't need to remember to charge it, or it's a little inconvenient because you can't just recharge it on the go. The RF receiver has a 98-foot range, so whether you're in a conference room or an auditorium, you're connected and in control.

This wireless presentation remote features a USB receiver, a 39-foot range, and an excellent button layout for presentations where full engagement is key. The forward and back buttons are defined by raised bumps, so you know exactly which way your presentation is going at all times. There's also a blackout mode, so you can cut to black at the end or while you prepare your presentation.

For $15, this remote isn't exactly feature-rich, but according to its Amazon reviews , it's reliable and a great minimalist option. It supports the Office suite, and it has a red laser pointer. And it takes one AAA battery.

What say you?

Do you have a favorite presentation remote? Let us know in the comments below.

Updated February 2018: Added the Beboncool budget option and swapped in the Logitech R800 in place of the R400, since its LCD display is perfect for timed presentations and total control. Also added pricing for each remote.

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A Complete Guide to Giving Remote Presentations

Today's business world is becoming increasingly global and the ability to give a presentation remotely has become more important than ever before. From conferences and webinars to meetings and training sessions, we all need to be able to effectively communicate with people across the globe. This is especially true for those who travel frequently or work from home. 

While there are many different ways to give a remote presentation, the following tips will help you deliver a successful presentation regardless of your location or situation.

Encourage Interaction and Feedback

A great way to make your presentation more engaging is to encourage live interaction throughout the event. Whether you're leading a conference, small group meeting, webinar, or other gathering, include opportunities that allow your audience to get involved in your presentation.

This can be as simple as asking for feedback at the end of your presentation or letting audience members ask questions during a Q&A session. The more interactive you are, the less likely you will lose your audience's attention and interest.

Utilize Presentation Software

While presentation delivery methods like using a whiteboard, index cards, or even just talking to your audience are viable options when presenting in person, virtual slide decks are your best bet for giving remote presentations. Powerpoint, Google Slides, Keynote, and other platforms are all user-friendly options. A direct screen share using presentation software will be easier for your audience to view, and it means you won't have to juggle a physical presentation and computer screen at the same time.

Have Effective Visuals

There are many different ways to express yourself during a remote presentation, but using well-designed visual aids is one of the best. A professionally designed slide deck can help you better engage your audience and keep them interested in what you have to say. Consider hiring a freelance Powerpoint designer to guarantee you have clear, captivating visuals that convey your message no matter where your audience is.

Prepare for Technical Difficulties

Remote presentations rely on technology like video conferencing and live streaming, so the best way to make sure you can deliver your presentation no matter what is to be prepared for technical issues. Practice ahead of time with all the equipment you plan on using so there are no unexpected surprises when it really counts.

Always have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties. This might mean having a hard copy of your presentation to reference or having someone else ready to take over in case something goes wrong on your end.

Minimize Distractions

Since you won't be face to face with your audience, it's important to minimize any distractions that could pull their focus away from your presentation. You don't have much control over their surroundings, but you can make your environment as neutral as possible. This means keeping your background and surroundings neat and tidy, avoiding eating or drinking during the presentation, and clearing the space of noisy elements.

Make Up for a Lack of Body Language

You won't have the full benefits of body language when giving a remote presentation. As you plan out your presentation, keep this in mind and focus on mannerisms that will be included in the frame of your video call. It could be as simple as using your hands more or frequently looking directly into your camera, but these small elements can make a big difference in how your audience perceives you.

Remote Presentations Are Here to Stay

As technology becomes more advanced and efficient, remote presentations are becoming the go-to choice for many businesses. While it's possible to deliver an effective presentation without fully embracing modern technology, doing so might limit your delivery options. With the right planning, a remote presentation can be as engaging as an in-person one.

Outsource your presentation design needs to Kristian Olson Art & Design. I'll work with you to create a visually appealing, professional slide deck that will help keep your audience's attention focused on you and your message. Reach out —let’s talk about your next presentation!

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7 Practical Tips for Engaging Audiences in Virtual Presentations

Unleash the power of virtual presentations with 7 practical tips to captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. Don't miss out!

Remote presentations and virtual meetings present unique challenges compared to in-person interactions, but with the proper techniques and strategies, you can effectively adapt and engage your audience.

With the rise of remote work and virtual communication , the ability to deliver impactful presentations and engage audiences through online platforms has become essential.

Forbes mentions that virtual presentations have a greater chance of losing your audience.

What are effective strategies and tips for engaging audiences? Let's find out together.

The Matters of Engaging Audiences in Remote Presentations

Engaging your audience during a remote presentation is crucial for several reasons:

• It helps maintain their attention and prevents distractions.
• It enhances understanding and retention of the presented information.
• It fosters active participation, allowing for meaningful interactions and discussions even in a virtual setting.

Tips for Preparing a Virtual Presentation

Image by Freepik

1. Choosing the Right Platform

Selecting the appropriate platform for your remote presentation is vital. Consider factors such as the number of attendees, required features (e.g., screen sharing, chat, polling), and compatibility with different devices. 

Popular platforms like Zoom , Microsoft Teams , and Google Meet offer a range of functionalities suited for engaging remote presentations.

2. Ensuring Technical Readiness

Before the presentation, ensure you have a stable internet connection, high-quality audio and video equipment, and any necessary software or plugins installed. 

Test your setup to minimise the risk of technical difficulties that can disrupt the flow and engagement of your presentation.

3. Creating an Engaging Presentation Deck

Crafting an engaging presentation deck is essential for remote presentations. Use visually appealing slides with concise and impactful content. 

Incorporate relevant images, charts, and graphs to enhance understanding and make the presentation more engaging.

4. Engaging Techniques during Remote Presentations

• Start with a Strong Opening: Capture your audience's attention from the start by opening with a compelling story, a thought-provoking question, or an intriguing statistic. A strong opening sets the tone for the rest of the presentation and immediately grabs the audience's interest.
• Use Visual Aids and Multimedia: According to Indeed , visual aids such as slides, videos, and infographics can make your presentation more visually appealing and help convey complex information effectively. A survey from Digital Marketing Magazine states that attractive visuals increase audience engagement by as much as 94%.
• Encourage Audience Participation: Create opportunities for audience participation throughout your presentation. Pose questions, conduct polls or surveys, and encourage participants to share their thoughts and experiences. This fosters active engagement and makes the presentation more interactive.
• Incorporate Interactive Elements: Leverage interactive features provided by your chosen platform, such as breakout rooms, whiteboards, or collaborative document editing. These features promote collaboration and allow participants to actively contribute and engage with the content.
• Maintain Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact, even in a virtual setting, is essential for building rapport with your audience. Look directly into the camera when speaking instead of focusing on your own video feed. This creates a sense of connection and engagement.

5. Mastering Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

• Speak Clearly and Confidently: Ensure your voice is clear and audible throughout the presentation. Speak at a moderate pace, enunciate your words, and vary your tone to keep the audience engaged. 
• Use Body Language Effectively: While body language may be less visible in a virtual environment, it still plays a role in conveying your message effectively. Maintain good posture, use hand gestures purposefully, and smile genuinely to appear approachable and engaged. 
• Be Mindful of Tone and Pace: Avoid monotony by varying your pace and emphasising key points. Be mindful of your tone, using inflexion and emphasis to convey enthusiasm and maintain interest.

6. Overcoming Technical Challenges

• Dealing with Connectivity Issues: Have a backup plan ready in case of internet disruptions or other connectivity problems. Inform your audience about potential issues beforehand and provide alternative means of accessing the presentation if needed.
• Handling Distractions and Interruptions: Minimise distractions by finding a quiet space, muting yourself when not speaking, and politely addressing any interruptions that may occur.
• Prepare Offline Alternatives: In case of internet or software failures, have offline alternatives ready. For example, save a PDF version of your presentation and have it available for reference or distribution if needed.

7. Adapting to Virtual Meetings

• Establishing Clear Objectives: Define the purpose of the meeting, desired outcomes, and any pre-meeting preparations required. This helps keep the meeting focused and ensures active engagement from attendees.
• Setting Guidelines for Participation: Encourage attendees to ask questions, provide feedback, and contribute their ideas. Foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions. 
• Managing Time and Agenda: Create a well-defined agenda with allocated time slots for each topic or discussion point. Stick to the schedule and ensure that discussions remain focused and on track.

Adapting to remote presentations and virtual meetings requires careful consideration of various factors. 

By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can enhance your ability to engage audiences effectively in the virtual realm. 

Remember to utilise engaging techniques, master verbal and non-verbal communication, overcome technical challenges, and adapt your approach to virtual meetings. 

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How to present remotely to a diverse audience

My last article included ideas about how to give a compelling presentation to a diverse audience. But what about presenting remotely, a reality that any leader has had to embrace over the last two years. Giving an effective presentation virtually is more difficult in any context but particularly when the audience includes people from a diversity of backgrounds. The research on cultural intelligence and global leadership offers insights for how to improve our effectiveness as remote presenters.

To begin, I’m going to assume we understand the importance of good lighting, sound quality, and a high speed internet connection for giving an effective remote presentation. There are enough distractions built into remote presentations without the unnecessary interference of a poor technical set-up. If you need help in this area, I highly recommend this inexpensive course put together by my South African friend and colleague Graeme Codrington.

Here are a few ways to give a more effective remote presentation to a diverse group: 

As I repeatedly say, global leadership is not about geography. It’s about leading people from myriad backgrounds and places, regardless of where they “sit”. What do global leaders do that is different from other leaders when giving a remote presentation to a diverse audience?  Let’s unpack a few of the differences:

The first time I taught an online class, I basically converted my in-person course for online delivery Throughout the course, I ranted to my colleagues about how inferior the experience was for the students: “There’s no way they’re getting the same learning as the students who take this class with me in residence!” But the problem wasn’t the virtual format. It was that I didn’t design the class from scratch, thinking about the best way to facilitate learning using discussion boards, asynchronous lectures, etc. 

Any time we give a remote presentation, we need to design it with the remote context in mind so that we can leverage the technology and accommodate the challenges and opportunities that come from diverse participants joining virtually. In reality, the tools available for remote presentations actually offer the potential for a more inclusive, culturally intelligent presentation. Multiple ways of providing feedback and interacting are built into platforms like Zoom and everyone has equal visibility to the presentation. Taking time to consciously design a presentation for remote delivery is the first step in making the presentation effective for a diverse audience. 

Most of us have become accustomed to that awkward period before an online session starts when we see each other but sit in silence until the presentation begins. In a live presentation, there’s typically some sort of warm up that occurs among the participants and with the presenter. People greet each other on the way in, share a cup of coffee and in many cases, the presenter has spent some time chatting with people informally. When I present, that kind of informal interaction is critical for giving me a pulse on the audience

The majority of remote events go straight into the presentation. Over time, many of us have grown accustomed to this and may feel little need to make a personal connection with the presenter or other attendees. But among many diverse audiences, there is more need for people to warm up to each other, the presenter, and the topic. When starting a remote presentation with a diverse group, take a minute and share something personal, use a poll to ask the audience a question, or facilitate a way for individuals to spend a moment greeting each other. Some will tune out and multi-task but those who need some time together before the presentation will be more in tune with you and ready to listen to what you have to say.

One of my pet peeves in any presentation is when a leader reads from a slide deck. This is particularly tempting in a remote presentation because the slides are right in front of us. Few of us are very adept at reading without the audience seeing that our eyes are tracking the words rather than looking right into the camera.   Among many diverse audiences, your credibility as a leader is immediately diminished when you read your content during a so-called extemporaneous presentation.  Don’t you know your content well enough to just talk to us?  Furthermore, if your presentation is primarily you reading slides to us, why do we even need to hear you present?

Diverse audiences are looking for all kinds of cues when watching a presenter. In person, that occurs by watching the leader’s body language and energy in the room. In a remote presentation, the presenter usually appears as little more than a tiny box and your slides become center stage. Once again, this is a much bigger issue for many audiences where a fuller understanding of who you are and your context is just as important as the actual words you’re saying. 

Your slides can be a useful way to address a diverse audience’s needs for things that are lost in a remote presentation. Rather than using slides to say the same thing you’re saying verbally, use them to pique curiosity. I minimize the amount of words I have on slides and use staged animations to guide the audience through the presentation gradually. And reduce the number of slides. Ten is plenty for most 30-minute presentations. 

If audience participation is important in a live session, it’s inordinately more important in a virtual one. Any leader needs to offer a variety of ways for an audience to engage,. But where a global leader goes a step further is to more carefully consider how the audience engagement will work in light of the cultures represented. As noted in the previous article in this series, asking “Are there any questions” is a lazy, culturally ignorant approach and all the more so when presenting remotely . Opportunity for varied engagement is one of the advantages of remote presentations. You can easily insert a poll, ask for feedback in a chat box, use the white board, or even do something as simple as asking individuals to turn their cameras on or off to indicate their opinion or experience on a particular topic (e.g. “Turn your camera off if you’re never returning to the office”). 

Throughout the pandemic, a lot of debate has surrounded whether leaders should insist on everyone having their cameras on. I loathe talking to a group with cameras off but I’ve learned to be more understanding of why some may need to keep their cameras off, not to mention the level of fatigue many feel by having to look engaged and expressive for an hour on camera.  Be explicit about your preferences as a presenter (e.g., “If at all possible, please turn your cameras on anytime we’re engaging together as a group; Feel free to turn it off when I’m just covering content”. But allow individuals to opt out if there are reasons they don’t feel comfortable. The more diverse the audience, the more explicit you need to be about how to participate in various activities.

In a live presentation, I try to mix up the format and activity every 7-10 minutes. In a remote presentation to a diverse audience, I try to mix it up at least every 5 minutes. Sitting passively listening to a speaker remotely is very challenging. 

Most of the world uses  high context communication  where words are only one aspect of communicating. The setting in which the communication takes place, the tone of voice, and what’s communicated in-between the lines is as important as the words themselves. For a low context audience member, seeing you speak in front of a virtual background with a beach behind you is irrelevant. For a high context individual, there may be confusion about what you’re trying to communicate by using that background and how it connects with your primary message.

In addition, most remote presentations have participants joining from many different locations. Global leaders are more mindful that the context of where an audience member is sitting can strongly influence how they engage with the presentation. A participant joining from their high rise condo at 10 PM versus one who is joining in the middle of the day with landscapers cutting the grass outside are going to have a very different experience with your presentation. For in-person presentations, the context is fixed. Everyone is in the same room, experiencing the same temperature, lighting, smells, and experience. In remote presentations, you have to find ways to create a shared context together despite the vastly different locations involved. 

Finally, many leaders, particularly in a Western presentation context, use charisma and enthusiasm to sustain interest, myself included. As  noted previously , this communication style may need to be adjusted even for in-person audiences but it’s definitely something to adjust when presenting remotely. In most cases, a remote audience is not sitting in an auditorium and instead, they’re joining the presentation from their home or office. A more relaxed style is usually more effective though of course, this again has to be considered in light of the cultures involved. 

A Silicon Valley audience or a group of US educators joining from home would likely welcome a leader dressing and communicating more informally for a remote presentation. Whereas a finance audience or a group of Asian government leaders may expect a much more formal background, dress, and presentation style. 

Slowing your rate of speech and simplifying your language are even more important when presenting to diverse audiences remotely. The audience doesn’t have the benefit of watching your entire body language and of course communicating via technology may make deciphering accents more difficult. 

Many of these practices also apply when giving a presentation to a homogenous audience. But the stakes for communicating with clarity and vision are much higher when presenting remotely to a diverse audience. 

Remote presentations are here to stay which means presentations are more likely to include individuals from a diversity of places and backgrounds. And many individuals from a variety of contexts may watch the recording later. 

It’s not inordinately difficult to give an effective remote presentation that engages a diverse audience. But it requires a thoughtful, culturally intelligent approach. Let me know what else you’ve been doing to improve your effectiveness presenting remotely. 

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• Presentation

The future of presentations: Remote presentation

• January 14, 2023

Remote presentation has become an integral part of the modern professional landscape. Whether you’re pitching a project to a remote client, conducting a virtual team meeting, or delivering a webinar to a global audience, giving effective presentations is a valuable skill.

It may appear effortless but can be difficult to master. How do you retain the human connection? It all comes down to the interaction between the presenter and the audience – that is how powerful words become amplified through a sense of shared understanding. In today’s world with our lives stuck in cyberspace on account of COVID-19, it’s even more important for speakers to bridge the gap between themselves and their audiences; only then will they truly succeed in making impactful Presentation design services !

Table of Contents

What are remote presentations?

Remote presentations allow us to bridge physical boundaries and connect with people from all around the world. With a simple internet connection, we can share our ideas even if everyone is geographically dispersed. It’s an amazing way for knowledge and creativity to flow freely across borders!

Making presentations remotely is a great way to reach audiences across the globe! From webinars and e-lectures, to screen sharing via Zoom or Skype – there are endless possibilities when it comes to remote presenting. So why not make your next presentation more accessible by taking advantage of all that technology has to offer?

Understanding the Importance of Remote Presentation

The rise of remote work and the digitalization of communication have made remote presentation an essential tool for businesses and professionals worldwide. Here are some reasons why mastering remote presentations is crucial:

• Global Reach: It allows you to connect with a global audience, transcending geographical boundaries.
• Cost-Effective: They eliminate the need for travel expenses, making it a cost-effective communication and collaboration method.
• Time-Efficient: It saves time for both presenters and attendees, as they can join from the comfort of their own locations.
• Flexibility: Remote presentations offer flexibility in scheduling and attending, accommodating diverse time zones and work arrangements.
• Accessibility: They make information and expertise accessible to a broader audience, including those with physical limitations.

Key Elements of Effective Remote Presentations

The foundation of any successful presentation, remote or in-person, is clear and well-structured content. Here’s how to achieve it:

Define Your Purpose: Start by defining the purpose of your presentation. What message you want to send? What actions or decisions do you hope to inspire?

Structure Your Content: Organize your presentation logically, with a clear introduction, main points, supporting details, and a conclusion. Use visual aids like slides to enhance understanding.

Keep it Concise: Avoid overwhelming your audience with too much information. Stick to the most relevant and impactful content.

Now, here are the key elements of effective remote presentations:

Engaging Visuals

Visual aids are essential for holding your audience’s attention and conveying information effectively. Consider these tips:

• Use High-Quality Images: Use high-resolution images and graphics to ensure clarity and professionalism.
• Limit Text: Avoid cluttered slides with excessive text. Use bullet points, visuals, and concise text to emphasize key points.
• Visual Consistency: You need to have a exclusive visual style and color scheme throughout your presentation.

Interactive Elements

Engage your audience by incorporating interactive elements into your remote presentation:

• Polls and Surveys: Use polling tools to gather feedback and involve the audience in real time.
• Q&A Sessions: Allocate time for questions and answers during the presentation or at the end.
• Chat and Messaging: Encourage participants to use chat or messaging features for questions and comments.

Effective Delivery

Delivery plays a significant role in remote presentations. Here’s how to ensure you’re delivering your message effectively:

• Practice: Rehearse your presentation multiple times to become familiar with the content and pacing.
• Speak Clearly: Enunciate your words and speak moderately to ensure clarity.
• Maintain Eye Contact: Look directly into the camera to create a sense of connection with your remote audience.
• Use Gestures: Use hand gestures and body language to enhance your delivery, even if your audience can’t see you in person.

Technology and Tools

Selecting the right technology and tools is crucial for a seamless remote presentation:

• Reliable Internet Connection: Ensure a stable Internet connection to avoid disruptions.
• Presentation Software: Get to know traits of the presentation software you’ll be using, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Slides.
• Backup Plans: Have contingency plans in case of technical difficulties, such as a backup internet connection or alternative presentation format.

Why are remote presentations effective?

In an age where technology makes the world feel just a bit smaller, presentations are more powerful than ever. No longer do your audience and materials need to be confined to one location; presenters now have near-instant access across oceans! For instance, we recently demonstrated this firsthand by connecting professionals from around the globe with our client here in Massachusetts. Similarly, professors can give lectures beyond borders or management consultants share their findings globally – all thanks to presentation technologies making such leaps possible!

Working remotely can provide a double bonus – it not only saves time and money but everyone involved is also spared the headache of enduring long commutes or purchasing costly equipment. Presentations are now easier than ever to access from any location!

The best way to present remotely

As COVID-19 continues to transform the way we work, virtual collaboration and remote office setups have become integral. With this mind shift, our organization has curated a collection of tried-and-true best practices garnered from years of experience with remote working models. In the weeks ahead businesses must adjust their strategies for maximum efficiency without compromising productivity or team morale!

Remote presentations can be tricky – it’s hard to keep people focused, tech often gets in the way, and there are no body language cues for understanding. To help make remote communication more effective and meaningful, consider these quick tips: eliminate multitasking distractions with preemptive measures; consult IT professionals regarding technical support if needed; pay extra attention to nonverbal ways of expressing yourself like facial expressions or hand gestures that have been adapted during this period of remote work. With a few changes here and there, you’ll soon find your virtual presentations easier than ever!

1- Create videos that sell for you

At Method, we are big believers in the power of video chat. By taking cues from those who join a call first and turning your camera on, it allows us to pick up on some lost nonverbal cues – making connections easier! Although not mandatory for every virtual gathering, testing out technology setup beforehand is key when presenting or hosting larger meetings. If you’re looking for options besides Google Meet or Zoom their various alternatives such as GoToMeeting, Blue Jeans & more!

2- Be prepared for the next storm

Get your team ready for the upcoming meeting by assigning roles and practicing together. The facilitator should lead the discussion, direct questions to those who can provide answers, and make sure everyone gets their chance to speak. Working as a unit will give you an advantage during Q&A!

3- Control the flow of your conversations

In remote presentations, proper control of the conversation can seem like a game of juggling. To ensure everyone has their moment to speak and is heard you should be mindful about passing on the “mic”, much like in sports when one player passes another a ball. Everyone appreciates being able to share ideas without interruption or feeling left out! This kind of etiquette applies just as well during face-to-face engagements too – so don’t forget it even if someone forgets theirs!

4- Get the most out of your technology

Don’t just talk to technology like a robot – try speaking as if you’re addressing another person! VOIP telephones can inhibit the normal flow of conversation, so it’s important to keep up eye contact and project your voice for these interactions to feel more natural.

5- Clear Your Screen in Seconds

Screensharing can be a money saver and time-saver in meetings, but don’t get caught up sharing too much. Instead of opting for the default Share Screen option to broadcast your entire monitor, make sure you only show one window at a time – especially if you’re taking notes during an important meeting! By staying focused on just what’s needed, everyone else will stay right where they need to: paying attention.

Ensure you have a distraction-free environment during your presentation. Turn off all notifications, close windows, and tabs that don’t align with the main topic at hand, and switch any Slack messaging over to Do Not Disturb mode so they won’t be seen incorrectly by viewers. Be mindful of every window shared onscreen – pause or stop screen sharing if documents are opened from emails or other applications as these can draw attention away from the message intended for delivery.

Tips for overcoming the challenges of remote presentations

1- the best way to prepare is with practice.

If you want to make an impact with your speeches and presentations, there’s no better way than to hone your delivery skills through regular practice. Recording yourself during each session will allow you not only to evaluate how well it went but also to help make sure that everyone in the audience feels like they have a direct connection with what is being said by looking into the camera instead of away from it.

Your words are just one part of the message you send – to communicate effectively, use more than your voice! We’ve put together an article on how facial expressions and eye contact can be used to engage with audiences. Make sure that what you say is matched by its delivery; head over for some tips and tricks!

2- Identify your target market

Establishing a connection with the people you’re speaking to is essential – but how do you make sure your message resonates effectively? It all comes down to audience analysis. Before taking the stage, take some time to consider factors like their interests, level of understanding, and even attitude towards what’s being said; making adjustments as necessary so that when it’s showtime everyone involved can get something worthwhile out of your words. Doing detailed research ahead of time allows for tailored communication in an online environment – ultimately creating more meaningful conversations between speaker and listener alike!

It is essential to invest time and effort into understanding your audience when preparing a speech. The demographics such as age, gender, and size of the group can help craft an engaging presentation that resonates well with them – no matter how long or short it may be! To get more insight on this topic check out The Importance of Knowing Your Audience When Delivering a Speech for helpful tips about creating speeches tailored to individual listeners.

3- Increase website conversions with Pulse

Working from home can be quite challenging for many of us; between unexpected distractions and multitasking, it’s easy to lose focus. To ensure your presentations remain engaging and hit the mark, keep them short – no more than 15-25 minutes is generally plenty!

Presenting virtually? Focus on the essentials. To keep it concise, break your sentences into shorter chunks of 10 words or less and use bold visuals to emphasize each point – don’t overburden with data. Spice up your presentation by including videos that illustrate key points quickly, as well as fun facts for an engaging twist! Uncover our article on ‘Steps to Add Facts in A Speech Without Making It Boring’ for tips – because there’s no need to sacrifice entertainment while delivering real metrics.

4- Transform your marketing with stunning visuals

When looking at new ways to share and deliver information, consider the power of visuals! Our brains are far more likely to absorb what we see than just listening or reading alone. Using graphics, images, and videos can help your presentation stand out from others while also making it easier for the audience to retain key points – a win-win situation for all involved. Invest in quality visual content today and unlock it’s potential tomorrow!

Visuals can be the key to unlocking powerful emotions and condensed messages; they provide more clarity than words alone. By utilizing visuals in your communication, you can connect with people on a deeper level, making what you say even more meaningful and memorable.

5- Bring your brand to life with a story

Craft your presentation into an engaging narrative to captivate and retain the attention of viewers. Telling a story allows you to plant ideas in their minds, evoke emotion within them, and even alter existing beliefs – all invaluable assets for convincing others about something. Make sure that when it comes time for the virtual pitch decking session you are prepared with a tale so compelling they won’t want it to end!

How to tell a story through your remote presentation?

To create powerful and engaging presentations, it is important to craft a memorable story. A relatable character can help your listeners emotionally connect with the narrative you are conveying. For instance, Men+Care’s Campaign explored fatherhood through the lens of one man and his daughter’s journey together – weaving an emotional tapestry that resonated deeply with viewers. Building on this connection helps ensure messages stay intact by ‘walking in their shoes’ so they truly understand what you’re saying; changing visuals accordingly brings depth to any virtual presentation or speech setup. To better equip yourself for crafting these stories successfully our article dives into various approaches to storytelling!

Challenges and Solutions for Remote Presentations

Remote presentations offer numerous advantages, such as accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to reach a global audience. However, they also come with some challenges. Let’s explore some common challenges of remote presentations and provide practical solutions to overcome them.

Engagement and Interaction:

Challenge: Maintaining audience engagement in a remote setting can be challenging due to distractions and limited interaction.

• Interactive Elements: Incorporate polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions to involve the audience actively.
• Engaging Visuals: Use compelling visuals and graphics to keep the audience visually engaged.
• Encourage Participation: Encourage participants to use chat, raise questions, or provide feedback during the presentation.

Distractions and Environment:

Challenge: Remote participants may face distractions in their home or work environments, affecting their focus.

• Select a Quiet Space: Choose a quiet, well-lit location for your presentation, free from distractions.
• Background Control: Use virtual backgrounds or ensure that your physical background is tidy and professional.
• Silence Notifications: Turn off notifications on your devices to minimize interruptions.

Audience Engagement:

Challenge: Remote presenters may struggle to gauge audience reactions and adjust their delivery accordingly.

• Maintain Eye Contact: Look directly into the camera to create a sense of connection.
• Polls and Surveys: Use audience polls and surveys to gather feedback and tailor your presentation.
• Adapt to Feedback: Be open to feedback and adjust your pace and content based on audience responses.

Time Zone Differences:

Challenge: Coordinating schedules across different time zones can be complicated when presenting to a global audience.

• Consider Timing: Choose presentation times that are reasonably convenient for most of your audience.
• Record and Share: Record the presentation for those who cannot attend in real-time and share the recording afterward.

Delivery and Engagement:

Challenge: Defendinga dynamic and engaging delivery in a remote presentation can be challenging.

• Practice Delivery: Rehearse your presentation multiple times to become comfortable with the pacing and delivery.
• Use Stories and Examples: Share relatable stories or examples to make your presentation more engaging and memorable.
• Vary Your Voice: Use voice modulation to emphasize key points and maintain audience interest.

Accessibility:

Challenge: Ensuring that your presentation is accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities, can be challenging.

• Accessible Materials: Provide accessible materials, such as transcripts, captions, and alt text for visuals.
• Use Inclusive Design: Create slides and visuals with inclusive design principles.

Security Concerns:

Challenge: Keeping your presentation and sensitive information secure during a remote presentation is essential.

• Secure Links: Use secure, password-protected meeting links to prevent unauthorized access.
• Limit Sharing: Restrict screen sharing and file sharing to trusted participants.
• Data Encryption: Ensure that your platform employs data encryption for added security.

Effective remote presentations are a valuable skill in today’s digital landscape. By mastering clear content, engaging visuals, interactive elements, effective delivery, and the right technology, you can connect with your audience, convey your message, and achieve your presentation goals. With practice and continuous improvement, you’ll become a confident and compelling remote presenter, ready to captivate audiences wherever they are.

What are the advantages of online presentations?

Online presentations have advantages over offline ones, such as the ability to reach a wider and more diverse audience, regardless of location and time zone, and save time, money, and resources.

What are the benefits of online presentation tools?

Online presentation tools offer several advantages over traditional software like PowerPoint or Keynote, such as being cloud-based and allowing access and editing from any device and location. You can also share your presentation easily with others.

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Keynote User Guide for iPad

• What’s new in Keynote 14.0
• Intro to Keynote
• Intro to images, charts, and other objects
• Create a presentation
• Choose how to navigate your presentation
• Open a presentation
• Save and name a presentation
• Find a presentation
• Print a presentation
• Prevent accidental editing
• Undo or redo changes
• Quick navigation
• Change the working view
• Customize the toolbar
• Copy text and objects between apps
• Basic touchscreen gestures
• Use Apple Pencil with Keynote
• Create a presentation using VoiceOver
• Add or delete slides
• Reorder slides
• Group or ungroup slides
• Skip or unskip a slide
• Change the slide size
• Change a slide background
• Add a border around a slide
• Show or hide text placeholders
• Show or hide slide numbers
• Apply a slide layout
• Add and edit slide layouts
• Change a theme
• Add an image
• Add an image gallery
• Edit an image
• Add and edit a shape
• Combine or break apart shapes
• Save a shape to the shapes library
• Add and align text inside a shape
• Add 3D objects
• Add lines and arrows
• Add and edit drawings
• Add video and audio
• Record video and audio
• Edit video and audio
• Add live video
• Set the movie and image formats
• Position and align objects
• Use alignment guides
• Place objects inside a text box or shape
• Layer, group, and lock objects
• Change object transparency
• Fill shapes and text boxes with color or an image
• Add a border to an object
• Add a caption or title
• Add a reflection or shadow
• Use object styles
• Resize, rotate, and flip objects
• Add linked objects to make your presentation interactive
• Select text
• Copy and paste text
• Format a presentation for another language
• Use phonetic guides
• Use bidirectional text
• Use vertical text
• Change the look of text
• Use text styles
• Change text capitalization
• Add drop caps
• Make characters superscript or subscript
• Format fractions automatically
• Format dashes and quotation marks
• Format Chinese, Japanese, or Korean text
• Set tab stops
• Format text into columns
• Adjust line spacing
• Format lists
• Add mathematical equations
• Add borders and rules (lines) to separate text
• Add or delete a table
• Select tables, cells, rows, and columns
• Add or remove rows and columns
• Move rows and columns
• Resize rows and columns
• Merge or unmerge cells
• Change the look of table text
• Show, hide, or edit a table title
• Change table gridlines and colors
• Use table styles
• Resize, move, or lock a table
• Add and edit cell content
• Format dates, currency, and more
• Highlight cells conditionally
• Format tables for bidirectional text
• Alphabetize or sort table data
• Add or delete a chart
• Change a chart from one type to another
• Modify chart data
• Move, resize, and rotate a chart
• Change the look of data series
• Add a legend, gridlines, and other markings
• Change the look of chart text and labels
• Add a chart border and background
• Use chart styles
• Animate objects onto and off a slide
• Animate objects on a slide
• Change build order and timing
• Add transitions
• Present on your iPad
• Present on a separate display
• Present on iPad over the internet
• Use a remote
• Make a presentation advance automatically
• Play a slideshow with multiple presenters
• Add and view presenter notes
• Rehearse on your device
• Play a recorded presentation
• Check spelling
• Look up words
• Find and replace text
• Replace text automatically
• Set your author name for comments
• Highlight text
• Add and print comments
• Send a presentation
• Intro to collaboration
• Invite others to collaborate
• Collaborate on a shared presentation
• See the latest activity in a shared presentation
• Change a shared presentation’s settings
• Stop sharing a presentation
• Shared folders and collaboration
• Use Box to collaborate
• Create an animated GIF
• Post your presentation in a blog
• Use iCloud Drive with Keynote
• Export to PowerPoint or another file format
• Restore an earlier version of a presentation
• Move a presentation
• Delete a presentation
• Password-protect a presentation
• Create and manage custom themes
• Transfer files with AirDrop
• Transfer presentations with Handoff
• Transfer presentations with the Finder
• Keyboard shortcuts
• Keyboard shortcut symbols

Use a remote to control a Keynote presentation

You can use your iPad as a remote control to play a presentation on a Mac or on another device. This setup is especially useful when iPad is connected to an external display . If you’re playing a presentation on your iPad, you can control the presentation using your iPhone (or its companion Watch), or another iPad as a remote control.

Important: To use an iPhone or iPad with iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 as a remote, Keynote needs permission to connect to other devices on your local network. Go to Settings > Privacy > Local Network, then turn on Keynote.

Set up iPad as a remote control for a presentation on a Mac

The Mac and the iPad need to have Keynote installed and have Wi-Fi turned on.

Open Keynote on the iPad that you want to use as a remote.

The device displays the Set Up Remote screen.

Note: Tap OK if you’re asked to allow Keynote to find and connect to devices on your local network.

Open Keynote on the Mac, then choose Keynote > Settings (or Preferences in macOS 12 or earlier) from the Keynote menu at the top of your screen.

Click Remotes at the top of the Settings window, then select Enable.

Click Link next to the device you want to use as a remote.

A four-digit code appears on the Mac and on the device.

Verify that the four-digit codes match, click Confirm, then close Keynote Settings.

After the devices are linked, you can control the presentation from the remote device.

Set up iPad as a remote control for a presentation on another device

The remote control device and the presentation device need to have Keynote installed and have Wi-Fi turned on.

Open Keynote on iPad.

Open the presentation on the device where you will play it.

Tap Link next to the device you want to use as a remote.

A four-digit code appears on both devices.

Verify that the four-digit codes match, then tap Confirm.

Use iPad as a remote control

You must first set up iPad to be a remote control, as described in the previous task.

Play the presentation on a Mac, iPhone, or iPad.

Do one of the following:

Note: Handoff must be set up on the Mac and iPhone, and the presentation you want to control must be saved in iCloud Drive .

To control the presentation, do any of the following:

Advance to the next slide or build: Tap the slide, or swipe left across the slide.

Return to the previous slide: Swipe right across the slide.

Skip to a specific slide: Tap the slide number in the upper-left corner, then tap the slide you want to display.

To change what you see on your remote device as you’re presenting, do any of the following:

Switch between a timer or current time display: Tap the time or timer at the top of the screen.

Set up another device as a remote control for iPad

Open Keynote on the device that you want to use as a remote.

Verify that the four-digit codes match, tap Confirm, then tap Done.

After the devices are linked, you can control the presentation from the remote.

Use another device as a remote control for iPad

The other device must be set up as a remote control, as described in the previous task.

Open your presentation on iPad.

Use Apple Watch as a remote control

You must first set up iPhone to be a remote control for iPad, as described above, and Keynote must be installed on Apple Watch and its companion iPhone. To install Keynote on Apple Watch, update the companion iPhone to the latest version of Keynote. Then on Apple Watch, confirm the Keynote installation.

Important: For best results, set Apple Watch to wake and display Keynote when you raise your wrist during the presentation. On Apple Watch, go to Settings, tap General, tap Activate on Wrist Raise, and turn on Wrist Raise. Then tap Last Used App (swipe up to see it).

Open the presentation on iPad.

If you followed the directions in the introduction to this task, Keynote appears whenever you raise your wrist to control the presentation from Apple Watch.

To close Keynote on Apple Watch, press the Digital Crown.

Highlight on a slide from a remote control device

When you use Keynote Remote to control a presentation from iPhone or iPad, you can draw on your device to emphasize information on the slide. The drawing appears on the device that’s playing your presentation.

Set up iPhone or iPad as a remote.

Play the presentation on a Mac or another device.

Do any of the following:

Draw with a color: Tap a color, then draw with your finger on the slide.

Use the laser pointer: Tap the laser pointer, then move your finger around the slide; the laser pointer follows your movements.

Return to the previous slide or advance a slide: Tap the left or right arrow on the slide.

Hide the drawing tools: Tap Done.

Change the presentation devices linked to a remote control device

Open Keynote on the iPhone or iPad you use as a remote.

Tap Devices, then do any of the following:

Add another presentation device: Tap Add a Device, then follow the onscreen instructions.

Switch to a different presentation device: Tap a different device name, then tap Done.

Remove a presentation device: Swipe right across the name of the device, then tap Delete.

Unlink a remote control from a presentation device

Open Keynote on the device you use to show the presentation.

If you don’t want to use any remote, but you don’t want to unlink devices you already linked, you can turn off Enable Remotes. Turn on Enable Remotes when you want to use a device again.

Unlink a remote control from a Mac

Open Keynote on your Mac.

Choose Keynote > Settings (or Preferences in macOS 12 or earlier) from the Keynote menu at the top of your screen.

Click Remotes at the top of the settings window, then do one of the following:

Permanently unlink a remote: Click Unlink next to a device.

Temporarily unlink all linked remote: Deselect Enable so the device remains linked but isn’t functional as a remote. Reselect Enable when you want to use it again.

Keynote Remote uses Multipeer Connectivity, which allows newer iOS devices, iPadOS devices, and Mac computers that have the latest version of Keynote to connect over Wi-Fi whenever they’re in close proximity, even when they aren’t on the same Wi-Fi network. If you have difficulty using Keynote Remote with older devices or Mac computers over Wi-Fi, try adding them to the same Wi-Fi network.

Note: The old Keynote Remote app previously available from the App Store is no longer supported.

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DinoFire USB Type C Wireless Presenter Remote Presentation Clicker,Volume Control PowerPoint Clicker with Red Pointer Long Range PPT Slide Advancer for Mac Laptop PC Computer

AAA-USB A/C

Purchase options and add-ons

• 【USB-A & USB-C 2 in 1 Presentation Remote】The wireless presenter clicker features both USB-A and USB-C connections, allowing it to suitable for different types of device,such as macbook,laptop,pc.
• 【Functional Clicker for Presentations】The remote control for powerpoint presentations combines the features of page forward/backward, volume control, switch windows, full/black screen, hyperlink. Plug and play，it doesn’t require any drivers.(For Mac users, you may need to complete an simple set-up first)
• 【Bright Red Light & Long Control Range】The usb c presentation clicker with a bright light is easy to highlight your points and draw audience's attenion (Not recommended for LED, LCD screens).It is a efficient basic presentation essentials to use in class or conference.Wireless Presenter Remote control range: 98-165FT, Red light range: 328FT.
• 【Easy to carry】Usb receiver is conveniently stored inside the back of presenter near to compartment, making it easy to carry and avoid to loss when you're done using it.Its compact build, shape and pen clip design allow the ease of carrying on pocket or briefcase slot.

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the brightness, performance, charging, and value of the remote control. They mention that the laser pointer is bright and easy to see, works well for presentations, and is rechargeable. They appreciate the versatility, and ease of use. That said, opinions are mixed on connectivity and quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the performance of the remote control. They say it works well, is efficient, and works all around their room. Some say it's a nearly perfect device and a great value. It works great in wireless mode, but some bought it for the Bluetooth because their computer. The laser light works great, and is an awesome productivity tool. It also works seamlessly with Google Slides and is automatically recognized in Windows 11. The page-turner function is still reliable.

"...This remote is compact and functional . Making the wireless connection between the remote and my computer was completely straightforward...." Read more

"Great wireless presenter. Works well . Love that it is rechargeable. Can connect to device with Bluetooth or USB." Read more

"...Even now, the page-turner function is still reliable , but the pointer starts flashing the "battery low" warning after just a minute or 2...." Read more

"some of the features (like opening a hyperlink) do not work on Google Slides with a Mac. But most importantly there is NO POWER SWITCH!..." Read more

Customers like the ease of use of the remote control. They mention that it is easy to use, convenient, and easy to set up. The controls are simple and uncluttered. The laser is bright and has no difficulty showing up on the projected screen. It makes doing presentations easier in that they can walk around.

"...wireless connection between the remote and my computer was completely straightforward ...." Read more

"...It is easy to set up , easy to use, and easy to quickly stow using the clip...." Read more

"...If you are near the USB Fob, this is an excellent device - easy to hold , easy to use. It didn't work great for my use case though." Read more

"This was a great buy very convenient but began glitching after a while." Read more

Customers like the value of the remote control. They say it's well worth the investment, sturdy for the price point, and has an amazing battery life.

"... Great value . Just remember to remove the battery when not using, I’ve gone through quite a few." Read more

"... Great value for the money !" Read more

"...PROS- small, compact size- reasonable price - allows for movement during your presentation-..." Read more

"...What a waste of money : Now all I have is a not-very-useful laser pointer. Waste of money." Read more

Customers like the brightness of the remote control. They mention that the laser pointer is bright and easy to see, and the green light is bright enough to spot in LED monitor. They also say that the remote is an inexpensive and simple laser point and controller for PowerPoint. Customers also mention that it's a great asset since they can use it in assemblies to get students. They say that it has a built-in laser that lets them tease the cat.

"The green laser is bright enough to show up on TV screens...." Read more

"...This pointer was a sufficient brightness that it was easy to see, but not so bright as to be distracting...." Read more

"...The only draw back is the laser is bright green . So it’s brighter than it needs to be." Read more

"...lightweight, rechargeable, solid, and the one I bought has a bright green laser pointer (which I prefer over red)...." Read more

Customers find the remote control helpful for presentations, a great teaching tool, and perfect for the classroom. They also say it works well to present lessons and makes teaching easier.

"Works great and is perfect for a classroom !" Read more

"...It’s awesome to work in small groups and still click PowerPoints or just be mobile and not tethered to my mouse! Get it and thank me later!" Read more

"I absolutely love this lil gadget!!! It is so easy to use and very handy ...." Read more

"...The laser, while not the brightest, works for the classroom . It also has a volume adjuster on one side...." Read more

Customers like the charging of the remote control. They say it is rechargeable, so they don't need to worry about buying batteries. They also mention that it comes charged and ready to use, and that the re-charge feature is really great to use.

"...Comes with on/off switch, built-in rechargeable battery , volume control, tabs for PowerPoint" Read more

"Great wireless presenter. Works well. Love that it is rechargeable . Can connect to device with Bluetooth or USB." Read more

"...It is lightweight, rechargeable , solid, and the one I bought has a bright green laser pointer (which I prefer over red)...." Read more

"...for the brightness of the laser, the concealability, and the rechargeability ...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the connectivity of the remote control. Some mention that it connects right away via Bluetooth and via USB, and it reaches throughout their classroom. However, others say that it goes to sleep and seems to lose its Bluetooth connection. It's not easy to connect via Bluetooth the first time and it takes a few tries.

" Great wireless presenter . Works well. Love that it is rechargeable. Can connect to device with Bluetooth or USB." Read more

"...Unfortunately, bluetooth does not work . It will connect to the PC but does not do anything" Read more

"...This remote has excellent range from just about anywhere in my lab...." Read more

"...it goes to sleep and seems to lose its bluetooth connection ...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the remote control. Some mention it's well-made, reliable, and easy to use. However, others say it'll fall apart and feel like a cheap plastic toy.

"...It is lightweight, rechargeable, solid , and the one I bought has a bright green laser pointer (which I prefer over red)...." Read more

"...I have had no issues until now. My usb plug fell apart today … right before an important unit I am starting tomorrow...." Read more

"...a great deal to focus on specific things on my slides: the red beam is very strong and easily visible to my students. Great value for the money!" Read more

"...It does a great job, but feels like a cheap plastic toy that might shatter to bits if you accidentally drop it...." Read more

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CH&E - Candidate Presentation: Rural and Remote Healthcare Research Faculty

May 02, 2024

Administrative

Dr. Emmanuel Dankwah | Advancing rural and remote health care: Building collaborative research and community engagement

Department of Community Health and Epidemiology 

The Rural and Remote Healthcare Research Faculty Candidate Presentation with Dr. Emmanuel Dankwah will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 10:00 to 10:50 a.m. Attend in person (HLTH GA80) or on Zoom - https://bit.ly/3xN0WRQ .

The title of his presentation is Advancing Rural and Remote Health Care: Building Collaborative Research and Community Engagement.

Event Details

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A Blog from the Sustainability in the Urban Environment Program at City College

Environmental Projects Presentation on validation of SAR data using remote sensing technologies

SUS 8350B: Environmental Projects students present on their seminar research work looking at the validation of SAR data using remote sensing technologies.

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