Many people fear public speaking, and being on camera is much like public speaking, just without people staring back. There are a few ways to help combat this fear and start creating videos to help your company or organization for those who struggle to speak on camera. Do not worry if you need to practice a bit before releasing a video, but also, do not be overly critical of yourself. The goal is to have fun and present some information. IF you are still worried, try the tips below to start overcoming your fear.
2. Create a Script
The first step is to write out a script. This is not a 200-page full play, but a few words to help you organize your thoughts and words. Just like taking notes in a class, writing out what you plan to say can help you relax and maintain the flow while on video. This is not a script to be memorized or to be read verbatim on the video, but one to help you get your thoughts out and focused before going on camera. Start with bullet points and fill in the information you wish to share. Rehearse off camera a few times, make sure it makes sense and flows, and get started.
2. Bullet Points
The script can be helpful, but since you do not want to read it directly because it comes off as robotic, bullet points can keep you calm and in control. Look back to the script you created and jot down the bullet points, 3 is best, but one or two more could be used if necessary. Write out each point on a post-it or index card and place it near the camera within your sightline. Then, as you start to speak, you can glance at the bullet points to stay on track. This can keep you calmer on video, and make sure you highlight all the information for your video.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
As with most things in life, practice helps. Take the time to practice being on video, whether practicing what you are actually going to say or simply learning to be on camera without freezing. Be silly and goofy, and then try a couple of practice rounds of the actual video. Fear is real, but this is just a camera, and you are being informative. This is a simple way to build your business, so put some effort and work into it during practice and the real video. The more you practice, the more relaxed and real you will appear on camera. As you continue to create videos, you will be able to look back and see your growth.
4. Get Comfortable
This point will look slightly different for each person because being comfortable means different things. The tip to be comfortable is about clothing and word choice within the rules of the company. If you typically dress in jeans and a nice shirt for work but try to create a video in a three-piece suit, you will not be as comfortable and can read on camera. The same is true for your word choice. Use phrasing and terminology that is accurate but comfortable to create the best videos possible. Also, avoid any jewelry or clothing that may make noise because this can pick up and limit video sound quality. While it is important to stay within company rules, the more comfortable you feel, the better the video.
5. Smile
Though this tip is simple, smiling can help us relax and look relaxed while on camera. Before the camera comes on, take a deep breath and smile, do the same as soon as the camera comes on, and then get started. If you smile and speak as if speaking to someone face to face, the video will turn out better.
Bonus: Teach Content
No one likes a lecture or a sales pitch, so create content that is teaching-focused. When we are teaching a concept, we are more relaxed because the goal is information sharing, not making a sale or forcing information on others. Teach a skill or how to use a new product as a way to connect with those who will see the video. When we teach, we relax because the skill is something familiar.
If you need help setting up a website, posting videos, or simply getting started on creating a web presence, contact me. I can offer guidance and help.
