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Richard “Trigger” Bontrager, author of “Rock the Virtual Stage Show,” has made serving as center of attention into a science. The longtime TV host has been addressing the public for over 30 years, making our dramatic recent shift to screen time just another day at the office for him. Today, he continues his conversation with Sylvia Henderson, uncovering the secrets of making an impact during your next virtual presentation or conference.
0:48 TV Magic 101
Particularly with public-facing platforms such as live streaming, vlogs, and video conferencing, presentation can be as important as content. Bontrager underscores that basic knowledge of TV presentation principles can totally transform the look and feel of your video content. He dives into specifics about the finer points of lighting, such as how a background image can impact the overall transmission quality of a video. He also advises content creators to keep their backgrounds simple to draw a viewer’s primary focus to the presenter.
3:42 To Spend or Not to Spend?
Few factors immediately detract from the outreach potential of multimedia content like poor quality audio. Whether it’s a podcast, a virtual conference, or a live streaming channel, lacking suitable audio equipment can severely limit engagement. While Bontrager acknowledges that there are benefits to having the best audio equipment available, even a small investment in this area pays big dividends. An inexpensive clip on camera eliminates much of the characteristic hollow sound in content commonly found the least listenable.
5:37 Speeches that Stick
Even the most experienced public speakers on Earth make use of notes and speech tools like the TelePrompTer to give their oratory a smooth, fluid feel. Bontrager stresses that there is no reason you should handcuff yourself by making presentations without these valuable resources. To avoid the droning, unnatural cadence that can come with reciting prepared words from a screen, the veteran presenter encourages the use of sticky notes. These should contain short key phrases and be arranged around the screen for natural reading.
7:34 Clear Competency
A professional appearance is one that gives the beholder confidence in the presenter’s abilities. Individuals in leadership positions should display poise and presence of mind. Entertainers should be immediately engaging and consistently looking to create memories. Those who speak on behalf of companies or institutions should project stability and conviction. For Bontrager, here is no one-size-fits-all formula for a professional appearance, but the common thread is a clear display of competency in a relevant field.
9:22 A Polished Presentation
A firm grasp on the basics will almost certainly get your foot in the door, but some attention to detail can ensure you arrive as intended. With over three decades in media production, Bontrager has ample aesthetic wisdom to impart. For instance, those who wear glasses should consider the position of their lighting to avoid distracting refractions. Still, the inveterate master of ceremonies makes a point to remind presenters that accidents will always happen. Perhaps his most important advice is to smile, have fun, and enjoy the ride.
Connect with Rich Bontrager:
Website- https://www.richbontrager.net/
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-trigger-bontrager-virtualstage-presentationcoach/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/RichTriggerBontrager/
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/c/RichBontrager
Connect with MindTeam Solutions:
Website: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/mindteamsolutions
Email: Info@MindTeamSolutions.com
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/mindteamsolutions