Whether your presenters are experienced in presenting to a virtual audience or not, it’s never a bad idea to have a checklist for them to run through. Even if some of these items seem obvious, you never know what someone may forget to do before it’s time for them to present!
- Reboot your computer a few hours before the webinar to avoid any automated updates that could launch during the virtual event
- Turn off all other applications on your computer that you won’t need for the virtual event.
- If you’re using a mouse, make sure the batteries are fresh (or it’s freshly charged).
- Close the door to your office (or whatever room you are presenting from).
- Mute your microphone when you’re not speaking.
- Have water or tea close by to drink at any time.
- Have a hard copy print-out of your slides as a backup.
- If possible, use a wired internet connection.
If you’re using streaming audio (VoIP):
- We recommend using a computer headset and not a webcam microphone.
- Make sure this microphone is turned on and that any other microphones are off or muted.
- Check that your voice is being broadcast.
- Close any windows that might cause outside noises to be broadcast.
- Mute your cell phone so you aren’t interrupted during the program.
If you’re streaming video:
- Check that your webcam is on.
- Check that the lighting is good and shows well on your face.
- Try to position your webcam so it’s pointed straight at your face, rather than above or below.
- Position yourself close enough to the webcam so that your face takes up a good portion of the screen.
Once you’re in the virtual event room (we recommend 30-minutes before start time) double check your slides, audio, and video. Then, relax and have a great, successful event!
