AlabamaWorks! Webinar Series – Guest Preparation Checklist

Panelists are asked to log in by 8:45am to check for audio/connectivity issues.

If using a Microsoft Powerpoint Presentation you will share your screen and advance your own slides. Please make sure you share correct audio if you plan on playing video files during your presentations.

If you have any issues or questions contact Anna Chappelle at (334) 462-0210

 

Zoom Presentation Preparation graphic

On-Screen Preparedness:

1. Plan out your Zoom background/location ahead of time.

You can use a location in your home, office, or a virtual Zoom background. If you select a place in your house or office, make sure it is uncluttered and clean. A plain wall or shelves with neatly arranged books provide a professional setting. Make sure your background doesn’t distract from you and your presentation. You don’t want your audience focusing on a family photo or the dishes in the sink.

Consider lighting. It is crucial. Soft lighting placed in front of you illuminates you evenly.  Make sure all of your lighting is the same “color / temperature” or you will have skin tone problems.  Avoid bright windows in your background that will over whelm the webcam with light.

It is worth taking the time to consider the height of your computer and webcam.  The webcam should be slightly above eye level.  Dividing the screen into thirds, place your eyes on the top 3rd of the screen horizontally. Some people may find centering the nose provides a proper amount of “head space”.

Make sure you are in an environment free of extraneous noise.  Avoid areas where others are talking, working, or taking phone calls.

2. Test your equipment before your presentation.

Your equipment can make or break your Zoom presentation.  Before the presentation start with rebooting your computer.
To avoid surprises, check your internet connection, plug in your laptop, and ensure that your camera angle is correct and that the microphone works.
You can confirm your internet connection, audio, and visual with a Zoom test meeting. Using a hard-wired connection rather than wifi is the safer option.  Don’t open applications you won’t need during the presentation to conserve your computer’s resources.
Taking precautions can avoid or minimize frozen screens, views of the top of your head, dead batteries, and sound problems.
Ensure your Zoom audio screen sharing settings are correct or the audience will not be able to hear the audio of the videos you play.

3. Practice Zoom presenting as if it were the real thing.

Zoom allows you to practice in the precise environment where you will be presenting. Set up your background, lighting, and screens as you will on presentation day. You can schedule a webinar practice session on Zoom and run through your presentation exactly as you will on the day. You can invite a friend to join you and offer feedback.
Rehearsing and Practicing can make the difference between a smooth presentation or an awkward one.