Although businesses of all sizes are now settling into their new routines after the COVID-19 pandemic months, one thing is sure: industry conferences in person. These events, and the speaking opportunities that they offer, are valuable opportunities for many to network with industry leaders and potential customers.
This opportunity is now available again in webinars, an increasingly popular online marketing strategy. One survey revealed that 73% of sales and marketing leaders believe webinars are the best way to generate quality leads, even before the lockdown. With the help of effective webinar platforms you can make webinars a great way to build your professional network and make meaningful connections.
As with any other role in public speaking at an event, guest appearances on webinars require thoughtful preparation. These are five tips to help business owners prepare for a successful guest appearance on a webinar.
Check Webinar Guidelines
To get a clear understanding of the expectations and protocol of the webinar organizer, you should reach out to them before you begin preparing your material. Some organizers will require you to present in a specific way, while others may leave it open-ended. You should find out this information well before the webinar.
If the organizer doesn’t provide a comprehensive answer, here are some questions you might want to ask:
- Who are the audiences?
- What is the format of the webinar, and what does it include?
- What technology requirements are there?
- Who are the other members of the panel, if there is one?
- What time can I expect to speak?
- Do you have specific experiences or topics that you’d like me to talk about?
- Do you allow me to talk about my products and services?
- What dress code is it?
You might ask them if you can access a recording from a previous webinar to get an idea of the format and style.
Setup your tech before you present
There are many essential types of equipment needed for webinar creation and one of the important things is webinar software.
Each webinar software is unique in terms of their features and layout, so select your webinar platform according to your requirements. Even if you have used the same platform before, it is a good idea to download the platform and login in advance to familiarize yourself with its layouts and functions.
Next, make sure you have reliable internet access. Although your computer’s built-in audio and video should be fine, renting or buying an external microphone and webcam can provide superior quality if you have the budget for it.
Draft Your Webinar Script
Whatever presentation format you choose to use, you should prepare an outline of what you’ll say and any visuals. You can refer to your notes discreetly while speaking in webinars, which is a significant advantage over live speaking engagements
The organizer’s expectations will determine your presentation’s content, but there are three main components that you should include.
1.You will be asked to give a personal introduction. It is a chance to share your expertise and establish your authority as a thought leader.
2. An outline of the presentation. It will set expectations for the attendees.
3. A story is a hook that makes a presentation stand out. Ideas presented in stories are 22x more memorable than figures or facts. Share a personal story or anecdote about a customer’s success.
You can find inspiration by searching for webinar clips from leaders in your industry or watching the keynote speech of the organizer’s latest webinar.
Choose a place for your presentation.
Another benefit of webinars is the freedom to control your presentation environment. Make sure that you can access a professional atmosphere on the day of your webinar appearance.
Two main factors are required for a great webinar background.
● Clean background, free from clutter, decor, and distracting items
● You need a quiet space with no disruptions. It may prove difficult if you are working remotely now, but webinar attendees will be more understanding of limitations in a home office.
If you don’t have any professional lighting for even lighting, place your setup in front of a window or bright lamp to get quality lighting.
Practice the presentation at least once
Before you go live, test all components: your presentation skills and tech. You want to be able to transition between your presentation and any supplementary materials seamlessly. Many professionals share tips on how to become a TED talk speaker agree that practice is the key to a successful presentation.
If you need to reduce or complete your time, practice more than one time. You can either record your trial presentation or give feedback to yourself or a friend.
Final Thoughts:
Webinar appearances can lead to new business opportunities. They are a great way to connect with your customers and industry leaders and replace live events.
You will be better prepared for future webinar appearances if you spend more time preparing, regardless of whether it is your first or fifth.
