3 More Things to Worry About on Video
More and more of my clients are finding one of the most valuable parts of my virtual media training workshops is when I go through a list of steps they need to consider to look better on video. I do it so they can look better during media interviews, but I know they're using the information for video calls and meetings too.
As I've done more research and examined what makes for a good look on video, the list has got longer. Maybe I've just realized how little things can make a difference.
The three latest items on the list are your glasses, the clothes you wear and how you use your hands.
Video or Text?
I don’t know about you, but there are times when I click on an interesting link on a news or sports website, only to see a video on the screen. I quickly realize if I want to get the information I was hoping for, I need to wade through a commercial or two and watch the video to get the bit of info I want.
Since you’re a reader of this high-class blog, I won’t subject you to that.
I have done a couple of videos and blogs on ways to look better on video. I did 5 Tips to Look Awesome on Video and I Hate Virtual Backgrounds. (That last one lost me a few friends I think.)
Today, I add three more things you need to think about when trying to look your best on video. If I can come up with two more, I guess I would have a Top 10 list.
Here Are 3 More Things to Think About
Now you have an option. You can take a look at the video below, in which I review some of the main points I made in the other blogs and go into detail about the three new things you need to do to make yourself look better when you do video interviews, or even appear via video.
Or, you can take a look at the Coles Notes version (remember them) that I have taken from the main points of the video. Or, you can do both.
Glasses
If you wear glasses, make sure they’re not dirty with smudge marks. This can show up on video. Also, make sure the glasses sit on your nose properly. Nothing is more distracting to people when they see others with glasses that slide down their nose too far. Your eyes help you communicate and they can't work if glass frames are blocking them.
Another issue can be a reflection on your glasses from the lighting you use, or natural light. You may need to move a lamp or light around, or change your position to avoid glare. People need to see your eyes.
Clothing
Be conscious about what you wear. You not only want your clothing to fit your image, but it’s important to note your surroundings. If your background is light then wear something dark. If it’s dark then wear something light or brighter in colour. You want to stand out to help give you more presence when you speak.
Of course, this only applies to what you wear above the waist. What you want to wear, or not wear, below the waist is your business.
Hands
Finally, be really careful how you use your hands. Don’t bring them up too high and allow them to cover your face, even for even a split second. Your hands are much more distracting in front of a camera only a short distance away than they are when you speak to a live audience in a boardroom, as an example.
Glasses, clothing and hands. Just three more things to worry when you’re on video.
Learn More During Virtual Media Training
I go into much greater depth in my virtual media training workshops, that really are also communication training. I work with groups of all sizes, and do one-on-one coaching as well.
Grant
What are your thoughts regarding the use of automatic captioning on a video; helpful or a hinderance?
Paul Preston
Appreciate the “transcription”. I prefer to read over watching video as I read faster than most people talk. The important lesson is provide audiences choice so they can read or watch. Thanks for the info, Grant.
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