As a member of Toastmasters for the past year, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t firsthand. Here are a couple of pointers:
- Limit the text on your screen!
You want the audience to be focused on YOU, not reading a screen while you fight for their attention - Practice your run-through at least ONCE.
Have an idea of what you’re going to say at each slide, as well as when you’re going to change slides. - Sprinkle a line or two from your testimonials
‘Salt & pepper’ your presentation with social proof – you don’t want full paragraphs (see above) - Video complicates presentations so so so often
If you decide on using it, think about using it as a backdrop that you can easily talk over. - Upgrade your Zoom
You’ll be kicked off after 40 minutes! - Practice working with the software
Ex. sharing your screen, muting loud callers, sharing video/audio. - If you are recording…
Make sure all of your callers are aware! This can have legal stipulations based on your state & jurisdiction. Maybe include a note or disclaimer in your signup form and confirmation email. - Have your vendors get in the game
Example: Charge participating vendors $5-10 to cover your marketing so they’re invested. - Have a Call To Action at the end of the call
“Schedule a call this week with one of our vendors within 24 hours and receive $150 off! Their Calendly links just hit your inbox.” - Send out a $5 Starbucks gift card to your prospects
“We normally pick up the tab when meeting for coffee, so here’s a little something on us. (If you’re not a coffee drinker, here’s a link to donate to first responders/healthcare on the front lines)”
Speaking of which, please please tell me you have a professional email address: Professional Email Address In Less Than 10 Minutes