If you’re one of the millions of Americans still working from home, it’s very likely that at some point you will have to give a remote presentation to a virtual roomful of clients and colleagues. This new remote work trend means that all presentations you used to give to a group of people in a conference room will now have to happen digitally. Public speaking can be terrifying enough, but giving a video presentation can be even more intimidating! Especially because we all know technology sometimes doesn’t cooperate.

So how can you effectively get your message across in a virtual room instead of a conference room? Here are a few tips for giving an engaging remote presentation.

1. Avoid Distractions

I’m sure you’ve watched a virtual presentation where distractions stole your attention – maybe it was a cluttered desk or background, a rambunctious pet, or even loud email notifications buzzing through the speakers. To avoid unwelcome distractions, it’s best practice to prepare for the worst. Close your tabs, isolate yourself in a home office or guest room, and turn off all notifications. Use a background that enhances your professional image and is aligned with your message. Take it a step further and make sure you have good front light—meaning the light shines brightly on your face.

2. Prepare and Rehearse

There’s nothing worse than beginning your presentation just to discover that your technology isn’t working. To combat this, practice delivering your presentation with your technology in advance of your talk. Make sure you have a good wifi connection and all of the features of the technology work. If all of that checks out, record yourself in a practice session just to see how you sound. And if you’re using a variety of media, images, links, and graphics to keep your audience’s attention, make sure they transition properly and there aren’t any hiccups!

3. Be Human

Even though you’re behind a screen, you can still engage with your audience just like you would face to face. Don’t think of the camera as a barrier between you and your audience, but instead a way to create a more intimate dialogue. Ask your audience questions, make eye contact, smile, and laugh! Bring energy to your delivery and your audience will be more likely to engage with you.

Giving a successful remote presentation is no small job, but if you follow these three tips you will ou pull off an engaging and effective virtual presentation. Good luck!

For more career advice, visit our blog!