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Wednesday, March 24, 2010
There are a lot of ways to become a more effective presenter. The one I'm going to share with you today is absolutely critical. You will never get past a certain point in your presentation effectiveness unless you do it. If you use it, you will improve - no matter how good you are right now.
Here it is: Record yourself every chance you get. Depending upon the situation, use video when possible, or use a pocket-sized audio recorder. Even if you are speaking at a "Leads" group, a PTA meeting, or at your local chamber of commerce for 2 or 3 minutes, at least audio-record yourself. If you are presenting, video yourself. That is Step One. Step Two is to listen to or watch it after you record it, with an eye for improvement. Note: A lot of people do Step One only. This process ONLY works if you do Step Two as well.
Having the right equipment is crucial. One of the best tools I ever bought was my Flip Video camera. Yes, most of us have camcorders. But who wants to go to the trouble to set them up? They also attract a lot more attention than the Flip, which is only slightly bigger than a cell phone. It works wonderfully with a small (5 inch tall) table tripod. It's small enough to fit in your pocket, purse, or carry-bag, and therefore more likely to be taken along when you go somewhere. I found that while I intended to record all my presentations with my camcorder, I rarely actually did that. In practice, I use the Flip Video because 1) it sets up in seconds, 2) it's inconspicuous, and 3) I can download it later to my computer in minutes (while charging it at the same time).
The best part is that it is pretty inexpensive. You can get a Flip Video camera for between $90 and $180 (US$
) depending upon features. I recommend the rechargeable model (which will charge when you plug it into your computer, and is very convenient). Sony and Creative Labs make similar models. I suggest you look at online reviews to see what is best for you, and walk into an electronics store in your area that carries them to see how they actually work.
) depending upon features. I recommend the rechargeable model (which will charge when you plug it into your computer, and is very convenient). Sony and Creative Labs make similar models. I suggest you look at online reviews to see what is best for you, and walk into an electronics store in your area that carries them to see how they actually work.
Digital audio recorders are cheaper than ever, and you can find them starting at around $25. I recommend getting one with features you want (and better sound quality) but it still shouldn't cost more than $50 or $60.
I highly recommend both the audio and video recorders. They have different uses, and are both valuable. An added bonus of recording yourself is that you now have material you can use on your website, or to produce a CD or DVD that you can either sell or to "demo" your work.
Video feedback is so important that we now video every participant in our speaking workshops (and send the participants the results).
Please email me with any questions you may have. Whatever you do, keep improving.
~Datta Groover
~Datta Groover
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All rights reserved. Feel free to share with attribution!
Datta is a motivational speaker and is hired frequently by speakers, authors, and trainers who want to improve their presentation and communication skills. He lives with his wife Rachael Jayne in Fort Collins, Colorado.