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:

  1. 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
  2. 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.
  3. Sprinkle a line or two from your testimonials
    ‘Salt & pepper’ your presentation with social proof – you don’t want full paragraphs (see above)
  4. 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.
  5. Upgrade your Zoom
    You’ll be kicked off after 40 minutes!
  6. Practice working with the software
    Ex. sharing your screen, muting loud callers, sharing video/audio.
  7. 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.
  8. Have your vendors get in the game
    Example: Charge participating vendors $5-10 to cover your marketing so they’re invested.
  9. 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.”
  10. 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