Keeping in mind both the traditional guidelines for preparing and presenting a speech as well as those unique qualities of online presentations, here are some additional tips to follow.5
Be well organized. Offer a clear statement of purpose and preview of main points. Proceed with a solid structure that the audience can easily follow. Conclude by restating your purpose, reviewing the main points, and encouraging the audience to watch or listen for more.
Have reasonable expectations. Fit the amount of content to the allotted time. Don’t pack too much into too little time.
Design powerful presentation aids. For video and Webcasts, plan for meaningful graphics and images that properly convey your ideas.
Keep your audience engaged. In real-time presentations, encourage audience interaction by incorporating chat, instant messaging, or polling features. In recorded presentations, offer an e-mail address, Weblog comment, URL, or Twitter address where audience members can submit comments and questions. Use these tools to acquire feedback from your audience, much the way you would use eye contact in a face-to-face speech or presentation.
Prepare a contingency plan in case of technology glitches. For example, have a backup computer running simultaneously with the one used to deliver the presentation. Provide a list of FAQs or a Web page with instructions for audience members to manage technology problems.
Maintain ethical standards. Use the same degree of decorum as you would in a FtF speech, bearing in mind that online presentations have the potential to go viral.
Get in plenty of practice time. Rehearse, record, and listen to yourself as many times as needed.