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Kathryn Janicek

Master Media Interviews with These Executive Presentation Training Techniques

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Mistakes happen, and in the world of media training, nerves can sometimes take over. But did you know that in many cases, you can fix those mistakes with a simple retake?

Let me share a story from one of our recent executive media training sessions with a client preparing for a pre-recorded interview. During her first take, she was speeding up, getting lost in her words, and feeling like her message wasn’t coming across the way she wanted. She realized she wasn’t as understood as she had hoped. Her words felt rushed, and her nerves got the better of her. Sound familiar?

But here’s where the magic happened—she asked for a retake.

In her second take, she slowed down, enunciated her words, and commanded the interview with confidence. It was like night and day. She sounded clear, comfortable, and, most importantly, she communicated her expertise with impact.

Why Speed Hurts Your Message

When we’re nervous, it’s natural to speed up. Our thoughts race, and before we know it, we’re firing off words without pausing to breathe. The problem? When we speak too quickly, our message doesn’t land. In our professional media training sessions, we often find that speakers lose impact because they’re rushing through their points.

In our media training workshops—whether we’re working with individuals, athletes, or corporate executives—we emphasize slowing down and enunciating. It’s not about filling the time or rushing to the finish line; it’s about making sure every word is understood.

The Power of Self-Awareness

One of the biggest revelations during our training with the New York client was her realization that in a pre-recorded interview, she had the power to pause and ask for a retake. She told the interviewer, “Hey, I’d love to redo this if you don’t mind.”

Guess what? The journalist didn’t mind at all. In fact, they were grateful. Why? Because when you give yourself a moment to compose your thoughts, you give the journalist a better soundbite—one that will be more effective when aired.

This is a key insight we focus on during our media training courses—the importance of self-awareness in interviews. It’s about understanding that asking for a redo doesn’t reflect negatively on you. In fact, it shows confidence and a commitment to clarity.

It’s Okay to Stop and Correct Yourself

We all feel pressure to keep going when things aren’t perfect, especially in recorded interviews. But the reality is, it doesn’t make you weak to stop, compose yourself, and do it better. Whether it’s for a media training video, a company promo, or a taped interview, asking for a retake doesn’t reflect poorly on you.

In fact, stopping and fixing your delivery can elevate the clarity of your message. We highlight this in every media training class we run—whether for executives, athletes, or celebrities. Knowing when something doesn’t feel right and having the courage to correct it is a sign of confidence, not weakness.

Give Your Words More Impact

The next time you’re in a pre-recorded media interview, remember—you have the power to ask for a retake. Slow down, take your time, and ensure your message lands with the impact it deserves. This is one of the essential takeaways we emphasize in media training for executives—the importance of taking control of your communication.

While live interviews don’t offer a reset button, pre-recorded sessions do, and it’s your responsibility to ensure your message resonates. If you feel like you went too fast or missed your key points, ask for a do-over. There’s no weakness in striving for perfection, and your audience will thank you for it.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a video for your company’s website or a major media outlet, what matters most is that your message comes across clearly. It’s not the audience’s job to decode your meaning—it’s your job to make it crystal clear. Don’t be afraid to take control of your delivery and ask for a second chance when needed.

Next time you’re in front of a camera, remember: You have the power to slow down, reset, and deliver with confidence. That’s what media training is all about—preparing you to communicate your message with clarity and impact.

At Janicek Performance Group, we’re here to help you perfect the delivery of your message. From media training intensives to one-on-one coaching, we’re dedicated to making sure you feel confident and understood—whether you’re on camera, behind the mic, or delivering a keynote presentation. Reach out for more information about our media training programs or join one of our media training workshops today!

Why You Need to Hire a Public Speaking Coach Before Your Next Conference

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As summer winds down, we find ourselves entering one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year—conference season! Whether you’re a subject matter expert, spokesperson, in sales, a CTO, or CEO looking to forge new partnerships, this period is full of opportunities to showcase your expertise and make an impact.

But here’s the catch: you can’t afford to settle for the same old approach. In today’s fast-paced business environment, standing out means pushing beyond what’s comfortable and doing something different.

The Importance of Doing Something Different

Your performance is everything.⁠ If you invest time getting nervous and prepping your slides, don’t skip preparing how you will deliver the gold.⁠

Your audience needs to feel something to act.⁠

You want to build your influence.⁠

You want to create confidence.⁠

It’s not enough to talk.⁠

It takes a performance.⁠

It’s tempting to stick to the tried-and-true methods you’ve relied on throughout your career, but the truth is, those methods won’t deliver fresh results. Whether you’re presenting at a national conference, hosting a panel, or giving a product demo, innovation is key.

Why? Because everyone else is also out there trying to make an impression. The same tactics that worked last year won’t cut it anymore. Attendees and potential clients are hungry for new ideas, fresh perspectives, and engaging presentations. That’s where doing something different can set you apart. By embracing new strategies and injecting your presentations with creativity and authenticity, you open up opportunities for meaningful connections that go beyond a typical conference interaction.

Changing and Evolving: Why It’s Hard (But Worth It)

Let’s be real—change is hard. Whether it’s a shift in your presentation style, the way you engage with your audience or even your mindset, evolving can feel uncomfortable. That’s because it requires more than just a surface-level adjustment; true growth demands introspection and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone.

For many, the hardest part is looking inward, acknowledging where there’s room for improvement, and facing those shortcomings head-on. It can be challenging to critique yourself or your team without judgment, but this self-awareness is crucial for real change.

It’s a process that takes dedication, time, and an openness to learn. But once you embrace it, you’ll start to see the positive effects not only in your presentations but also in how you connect with your audience.

Connecting with Your Audience in a Meaningful Way

The power of a great presentation lies in how well you connect with your audience. But creating that connection requires more than just delivering information. You need to approach your presentation with a new mindset, one that prioritizes authentic engagement over just “getting through” your slides.

When you step on stage (or onto a Zoom call), your audience can sense your energy, your confidence, and your authenticity. By pushing yourself to evolve and adopt fresh approaches, your audience will feel that effort. They’ll appreciate the authenticity and be more likely to engage with you, ask questions, and remember your message long after the conference is over.

The Value of Hiring a Coach for Conference Season

Now that we’ve established why doing something different is crucial, let’s talk about how to make that happen. This is where hiring a coach can make all the difference.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in helping professionals prepare for high-stakes presentations. With our coaching, you’ll refine your speaking skills, gain confidence in trying new strategies, and embrace the discomfort of growth. We work with you to identify areas for improvement, help you develop a strong presentation style, and guide you through techniques to engage your audience on a deeper level.

Our tailored approach ensures that whether you’re a seasoned speaker or preparing for your first big stage, you’ll walk away feeling prepared, polished, and ready to make an impact.

Why Fourth Quarter is the Time for Change

As we head into the fourth quarter, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing what’s worked before. But if you want different results—if you want to leave a lasting impression this conference season—you need to embrace the challenge of change. Don’t wait until next year to improve your presentation skills. Now is the time to invest in yourself and your team so you can finish the year strong and set yourself up for even more success in the year ahead.

Are you ready to make a lasting impression this conference season? Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you elevate your speaking and presentation skills.

How Professionals Should Leverage Personal Brands

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Your personal brand is more important than ever. Many professionals excel at their jobs, showing up and performing day in and out. However, they often overlook the long-term benefits of cultivating a strong personal brand.

How can you be seen as a thought leader? How will you be asked to speak at conferences or in the media? How can you network outside of your current job environment? What opportunities will appear for you later in life if you actively manage your online presence now?

During a recent webinar hosted by Traci Kantowski of Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN), I shared some key insights on building a personal brand.

The Importance of Personal Branding

Many professionals neglect their personal brand, thinking they don’t need one or have one. The truth is everyone has a personal brand. It’s about owning and aligning with it to establish credibility, build trust, and create a unique professional identity.

A strong personal brand can significantly influence your career growth, networking opportunities, and industry influence. It helps you stand out in a crowded marketplace and positions you as a thought leader in your field.

How to Leverage Your Personal Brand

1. Google Yourself

The first step in leveraging your personal brand is to Google yourself. This may sound simple, but it’s a crucial exercise. Here’s how to make the most of this step:

  • Audit Your Online Presence: Look at all the information that comes up about you. This includes social media profiles, articles, photos, and any mentions of your name. Ensure that everything aligns with who you are now. Are there outdated job titles or old photos that don’t represent your current professional image? Update them.
  • Consistency Across Platforms: Make sure that your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and any other professional profiles are consistent. Your professional image should be cohesive across all platforms. This also includes having a personal website that acts as a hub for your professional brand. It should showcase your resume, portfolio, and a professional blog.
  • Remove Irrelevant Content: If there are old profiles or content that no longer align with your current professional identity, it’s time to either update or remove them. You don’t want potential clients or employers to find irrelevant or outdated information. This clean-up ensures that what they do find is relevant, up-to-date, and reflective of your current expertise and personality.

2. Showcase Your Unique Strengths

While many people may have similar degrees and qualifications, what sets you apart is your personality and unique selling points. Here’s how you can effectively showcase your strengths:

  • Identify Your Unique Qualities: Think about what makes you different from others in your field. Is it a specific skill, a unique approach, or a personal experience that gives you a unique perspective? Reflect on your strengths and how they contribute to your professional success.
  • Incorporate Your Strengths Into Your Personal Story: Your personal brand should tell a story about who you are and what you bring to the table. Use your unique strengths as the cornerstone of this story. This will not only make you stand out but also make your personal brand more relatable and memorable.
  • Highlight Your Accomplishments: Don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements. Whether it’s a successful project, a notable award, or a skill you’ve mastered, make sure these are highlighted in your personal brand. Use them to demonstrate your expertise and the value you bring.
  • Engage With Your Audience: Connect with your audience on a personal level. Share your journey, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the lessons you’ve learned. This transparency helps build trust and establishes you as a thought leader in your field.

3. Set SMART Goals

Creating content and maintaining a strong online presence is time-consuming, so it’s essential to set SMART goals for your personal brand. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  • Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve with your personal brand. Whether it’s attracting more clients, getting contacted by journalists for media interviews, or becoming a thought leader in your field, be specific about your goals.
  • Measurable: Set benchmarks to measure your progress. For example, aim to increase your LinkedIn connections by a certain percentage or set a target number of blog posts or articles to publish each month.
  • Achievable: Set realistic goals that you can achieve within a certain timeframe. Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many objectives. Focus on a few key areas that will have the most impact on your personal brand.
  • Relevant: Ensure your goals are relevant to your overall career aspirations and personal brand. If your aim is to be seen as a thought leader in healthcare, for example, focus on creating content and engaging with communities in that field.
  • Time-bound: Give yourself deadlines to achieve your goals. This will keep you motivated and ensure that you make steady progress. For instance, set a goal to revamp your LinkedIn profile within the next month or to start a blog within the next quarter.

Personal branding is not just about self-promotion; it’s about establishing credibility, building trust, and creating a unique professional identity. By leveraging your personal brand, you can influence career growth, expand your network, and become a thought leader in your industry. Start by Googling yourself, showcasing your unique strengths, and setting SMART goals for your personal brand.

Need help with your personal identity? Let’s talk about how Janicek Performance Group will transform your personal brand into a powerful professional asset.

Avoid Industry Jargon: Engaging Media Interviews and Speeches to Boost Success

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In today’s fast-paced media environment, clarity and relatability are paramount for media and speaker trainers. Yet, many professionals unknowingly sabotage their own success by falling into the trap of using industry-specific jargon and overly formal language during interviews, speeches, or public addresses. This subtle but powerful habit can alienate your audience, making it harder for them to connect with your message.

Real-Life Example of Jargon Pitfalls

In a recent media training session, one of our clients repeatedly used the term “youths” in her sound bites. Instead of saying “young people” or “kids,” she defaulted to a word that isn’t commonly used in everyday conversation. While “youths” might be perfectly acceptable in certain contexts, it sounds stilted and formal in casual speech, creating a barrier between her and her audience.

This example highlights a common mistake many professionals make during media interviews—relying on industry terms or formal language. When speaking to the media, it’s crucial to use the exact words you’d use in a casual conversation. This helps your message resonate more with the audience, making it relatable and easier to understand.

Why Casual Language Matters in Media and Public Speaking

  1. Relatability: Using everyday language makes you more relatable. Your audience is more likely to connect with you if you speak in a way that feels natural and familiar.
  2. Clarity: Jargon and formal language can confuse your audience. Clear, simple language ensures everyone, regardless of background or expertise, understands your message.
  3. Engagement: People tune out when they hear terms they don’t understand. Keeping your language simple and conversational keeps your audience engaged and attentive.

How to Identify and Replace Jargon

  1. Review Your Communication: Look at your recent interviews, speeches, and presentations. Identify any terms or phrases that might be considered jargon.
  2. Get Feedback: Ask colleagues, friends, or even clients to review your communication. They can often spot jargon that you might overlook.
  3. Simplify Your Language: Replace industry terms with simpler, everyday words. For example, instead of saying “utilize,” say “use.” Instead of “leverage,” say “use” or “take advantage of.”
  4. Practice: Practice speaking without using jargon. This can be challenging at first, but with time, it will become more natural.

The Power of Everyday Language in Different Settings

  • Media Interviews: When speaking to the media, use words that your audience would use in daily conversation. This makes your message more accessible and engaging.
  • Investor Pitches: Investors want to understand your vision quickly and clearly. Avoiding jargon helps you communicate your ideas more effectively, increasing your chances of securing funding.
  • Board Meetings: Even in formal settings like board meetings, using clear and simple language can enhance understanding and decision-making.
  • Speeches: Whether addressing a large audience or a small group, using everyday language in speeches makes your message more relatable and memorable. Avoiding jargon helps your audience stay engaged and ensures that your points are easily understood.

Conclusion: Clear and Relatable Communication

Effective communication is about making connections and ensuring that your message is understood. By avoiding industry jargon and using everyday language, you make your communication clearer, more relatable, and more impactful.

Next time you prepare for an interview, a presentation, or a public address, think about the words you’re using. Strive to speak as if you were having a conversation with a friend. This approach will not only help you connect with your audience but also enhance your overall communication effectiveness.

Let’s use everyday language to make our communication clear, relatable, and effective. If you need help refining your communication style or preparing for your next media interview, reach out to us at Janicek Performance Group. We’re here to help you bring your fully confident, expert self to every stage.

Why Your Spokespeople Might Be Tanking Your Brand – And How to Fix It

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CEOs often don’t know how their employees represent their brand out in the wild.

They’re not recording their spokespeople and giving feedback on their messaging.

This oversight can lead to a significant issue we see all too often: condescension and arrogance in communicating messages.

These two huge turnoffs can alienate audiences and damage your brand’s reputation. Possibly worse, your spokespeople may be treating their teams inside your company the same way.

What you say and how you make your team feel greatly impacts their output.

Lessons from a Celebrity Chef Food Fest

I attended the Nassau Paradise Island Food and Wine Festival this year, enjoying fantastic food and unexpectedly gaining valuable public speaking insights. Here are three crucial lessons I learned:

1. It’s About the Team, Not the “Me”

During the event, a celebrity chef brought his team to the dining room before the first course to acknowledge their hard work. It seemed like a great move, right? Unfortunately, he then undermined their work and creativity in front of the audience. He was particularly condescending towards a female pastry chef, explaining her mistake and how he fixed it. Instead, he should have highlighted specific team members’ contributions and celebrated their successes.

Key Takeaway:

When representing your brand, it’s essential to uplift and support your team. Publicly acknowledging their hard work and creativity builds trust and respect, both within the team and with your audience. Condescension and arrogance, on the other hand, can erode that trust and harm your brand’s image with audiences. I was completely turned off.

2. Respect the Stage (and the Names!)

The festival was a prime opportunity for brands, but the top organizer fumbled the pronunciations of sponsor names. This lack of respect and preparation was glaring. Taking the time to learn and correctly pronounce names is crucial. It ensures that the brand (and you) looks good to the audience. These brands pay top dollar for sponsorship, so your spokesperson should mention them correctly. Get this right. 

Key Takeaway:

Prepare, prepare, prepare. Preparation and respect go a long way in public speaking. Mispronouncing names or appearing unprepared can reflect poorly on you and your brand. Always ensure you’re well-prepared and respectful, especially when acknowledging sponsors and partners.

3. Don’t Forget the Fans!

During Martha Stewart’s garden party at the festival, she vanished without meeting fans, leaving those who paid top dollar disappointed. While you might not be Martha, people still spend their time and money to hear you. The least you can do is give them your time in return. Stick around for a Q&A or take a few photos. 

Key Takeaway:

Engage with your audience. Work the room. I’ve coached CEOs who just want to show up, get on stage, and then disappear. People are there to meet you. You need to build connections. Your presence and willingness to interact with them can leave a lasting positive impression. Always aim to under-promise and over-deliver, exceeding their expectations.

How your spokespeople represent your brand in public can make or break your company’s image. Arrogance and condescension are major turnoffs that can damage your brand’s reputation. By focusing on team acknowledgment, respect, preparation, and audience engagement, you can ensure your brand is represented in the best light possible.

If you’re looking to improve your public speaking and media presence, let’s have a conversation about what success looks like to you. At Janicek Performance Group, we help you bring your fully confident, expert self to the stage. Reach out today and transform how you represent your brand.

How To Nail Down Your Story

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Recently, I spoke at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). At our media training workshop, we had over a dozen surgeons—dedicated professionals and perfectionists. These surgeons strive for excellence in everything. That’s great, and it can be crippling when you need to talk to your audience and connect with them. 

When it comes to media interviews and public speaking, it’s not just about perfection or having all the facts. It’s about telling your story in a way that captivates and engages your audience.

Lean into Your Executive Presence

First, take control of your executive presence with the goal of inspiring confidence in others. Think about this from a patient’s perspective. As a patient, I want to have confidence in the person taking care of me. I want to know you have my back.

Executive presence is about composure. Do you make people feel calm? Do you look like you’re in control of your body language, your breathing, and your posture? It’s also about your character.

Your Achievements Don’t Speak for Themselves

Many physicians don’t see themselves as executives. Despite having numerous degrees and qualifications, they often assume that their achievements speak for themselves. A few months ago, I explained to a client the importance of appearance. She was puzzled at first, not seeing the connection. She was qualified for the job—why would I even bring up her outfit or hairstyle?

I’m not suggesting you need to look like a news anchor. But when you’re on camera, your appearance can evoke trust. Media interactions are performative; it’s not just about your credentials. First impressions matter. Your audience forms an opinion the moment they see you, and then it’s your chance to captivate them with your 60-second elevator pitch.

This concept applies not just to media interviews but also to other professional opportunities, like applying for medical awards, department head positions, and prestigious fellowships. When you walk into an interview or step onto a stage, you need to project confidence and credibility. It’s about showcasing the whole package: your expertise, your professionalism, and your executive presence. Your story, combined with your polished appearance and demeanor, can make you memorable and compelling, setting you apart from others with similar qualifications.

Your Story Completes Your Resume

Your resume may be impressive, but it’s your story that will make you stand out. You’re probably great at your job. Or maybe you’re at the top of your class. But is that always enough?

A lot of students and clients come to us with the same question: “Why haven’t I gotten…?” Residency, fellowship—the thing they want.

I tell them to take a step back. Go back and remember what attracted you to medicine (or whatever industry you’re in). What is the story you can tell?

That way, when you interview for something, someone will remember you five days later and say, “I’m going to hire this person.” “I want her to do the presentation.” “I want him to speak at the conference.”

How to Nail Down Your Story

  • Focus on Your Story and HOW You Tell It: Crafting a compelling narrative is more than just recounting your experiences; it’s about how you present them. Your story should be engaging and memorable, drawing people in and making them want to know more about you.
  • Reflect on Your Journey: What inspired you to pursue your profession? Think about the challenges you’ve overcome and the defining moments along your path. These experiences not only shape who you are but also make your story unique.
  • What Makes YOU DIFFERENT?: Identify what sets you apart from others in your field. What unique perspectives or experiences do you bring to the table? Highlight these aspects to showcase your individuality and make a lasting impression.
  • Connect with Your Audience: Consider who you’re speaking to, whether it’s patients, colleagues, or an interview panel. Tailor your story to resonate with them. What parts of your journey will they find most compelling or relatable?
  • Practice Your Delivery: Like any skill, storytelling improves with practice. Rehearse your story to ensure it flows naturally and confidently. Pay attention to your tone, body language, and pacing to keep your audience engaged.
  • Stand Out in a Crowd: After meeting 10-15 other people, what will make someone remember you? It’s the personal touch in your story, the emotion you convey, and the authenticity you bring to the conversation. Your story, when well-told, can leave a lasting impression that goes beyond your qualifications and achievements.

 

Your brand isn’t just what you look like on social media, it’s also the stories you tell when you walk into a room. The way you present yourself captivates the audience, whether it’s a patient or a room full of colleagues.

Conclusion

What is the story you tell that will allow you to land the thing you really want? What is your unique connection?

Listen to the entire podcast here for more practical guidance on adapting to your audience, looking polished, and managing your inner dialogue to effectively promote your personal brand and your practice.

Reach out to us today, and let us help you tell your story, which will complete your resume and give you executive presence.

The Jitters: How Too Much Coffee Can Sabotage Your Presentation

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I get it—I’m a coffee person, too!

Coffee is our trusty sidekick, ready to kickstart our day.

A warm cup of coffee (with my chocolate collagen) nestled between my hands is my happy place.

In the world of leadership, public speaking, running meetings, and media interviews – that extra cup can turn us from cool and collected into jittery and distracted.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes video from a recent client training.

One of the salespeople we were training was all over the place—hands and legs shaking, voice trembling. The culprit? Way too much caffeine.

While a little java can sharpen your focus, too much can turn you into a human vibration machine, distracting your audience from your stellar message.

You might think an extra cup will give you the edge before a big meeting or speaking gig, but it might actually trip you up. Here’s how to keep your cool and your coffee consumption in check:

  1. Keep It Cool: Stick to one or two cups and cut off caffeine a few hours before your presentation.

  2. Hydrate Like a Boss: Water is your best friend. It keeps you balanced and less jittery. Try to drink at least 16 ounces of water before that first cup of coffee in the morning. See how long you can wait to hit the fresh brew.

  3. Chill Out: A quick walk or some deep breathing can calm those nerves way better than Nespresso or Starbucks.

Ready to take the stage like a pro? By keeping your caffeine in check, you’ll be more focused, confident, and ready to wow your audience.

Remember, you want your message to shine, not your jitters. Next time you’re gearing up for a big talk, skip that extra cup and channel your best, most centered self.

You’ve got this!

You’ve worked too hard to let this happen

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Go From Worried To WOW!

I met with an executive at a healthcare company this week.

She waited to go out for an opportunity – and when she got there… she realized: “What the he#$ was I waiting so long for?”

Have you been there?

You thought you weren’t ready for something… and then when you did it, you realized – those folks weren’t any smarter than you. They just jumped before you did.

Do you ever feel like public speaking might hold you back from that big opportunity? 

You’re not alone. 

Most people, even high-achieving professionals, struggle with public speaking.

This is precisely what we at Janicek Performance Group tackle in our work.

Feeling Overwhelmed and Underprepared?

Acknowledge that facing a big presentation, board meeting, or media interview IS nerve-wracking. 

You might worry about forgetting your points, being judged, or blowing the whole thing.

These feelings are completely normal! 

Public speaking can be incredibly exposing, and without proper preparation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

How We Help:

  • Craft a Powerful Message: We’ll help you develop a clear, concise, and impactful message that resonates with your audience.
  • Deliver with Confidence: Through coaching, you’ll gain the skills and techniques to present with poise and authority, even in high-pressure situations.
  • Banish Anxiety: We’ll help you manage your nerves and replace them with confidence and control.

Ready to Take the Stage?

If you’re ready to conquer public speaking and step confidently into the spotlight, schedule a call with us today. 

Together, we can discuss your goals and develop a personalized plan to help you become the powerful and impactful speaker you know you can be.

How to Set Up for an Online Meeting or Presentation While Traveling

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In today’s dynamic work environment, the ability to conduct professional and impactful Zoom meetings and presentations from ANYWHERE is an asset.

It’s June, and many people are scattered across the globe on school breaks and summer vacations. It’s a real concern to make sure you have a good place that looks professional when you’re on the road.

People ask us all the time, “What is the best way to set up for a high-stakes meeting when you’re not in your office?”

Whether you’re on the road, staying in a hotel or Airbnb, or grabbing a quick conference room, you CAN maintain a professional appearance and deliver clear communication.

Here’s how to land the best online presentation when you’re away from your office.

1. Ensuring Good Video Quality

Camera Quality

A high-quality camera is crucial for presenting yourself professionally. While most laptops have built-in cameras, their quality isn’t the best.

Investing in an external camera significantly improves your video quality. You will actually look like YOU. (I recommend this external camera for its excellent resolution and ease of use.)

Camera Position

The positioning of your camera is equally important. To create a natural and professional appearance, your camera should be at eye level. 

This helps maintain eye contact and avoids the unflattering angles from a camera positioned too low.

A simple trick is to use stacked books or a portable laptop stand to elevate your computer to the right height.

2. Ensuring Good Audio Quality

Quiet Space

Good audio quality starts with choosing a quiet location. 

If you’re in a hotel, pick a room away from busy areas like the lobby or bar. If you’re in a shared office or conference room, try to find a space with minimal background noise. 

Always test your audio before the meeting to ensure your voice is clear and free from echoes or background disturbances.

Zoom also has a really great built-in feature for silencing background noise, which you can turn on in your settings.

Using a Quality Microphone

Built-in microphones can pick up a lot of ambient noise. If you have a dedicated microphone or a good pair of headphones with a mic, use them to ensure your voice comes through loud and clear.

3. Creating a Professional Background

Neutral Background

Your background should be professional and free of distractions. 

A blank wall is ideal. If that’s not possible, aim for a simple, uncluttered background. You want your audience to focus on you, not what’s happening behind you.

By following these tips, you’ll be prepared, relaxed, and ready to go, no matter where you are. 

The key is preparation – having the right equipment, setting up your space thoughtfully, and testing everything beforehand. 

This way, you can maintain the same level of professionalism you would in your office, even when you’re on the move. 

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