“In a world where communication has gone digital, understanding how to communicate on camera is a must for all EAs,” says Anthony Laye.
The last few months have been filled with new learnings for everyone across the globe, some have embraced the change, while others have resisted, burying their head in the sand convinced that it will be over in a couple of weeks. In the world of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) there is something called ‘The Law of Requisite Variety’, which states that the person with the most flexibility of behaviour will control the system.
Never has this been more evident as I’ve watched professionals who would normally captivate and control a room, fall apart and become a nervous wreck on camera. We have been forced to communicate in a way that most are unfamiliar with. Those people who are seen as leaders are suddenly confronted with a black, shiny, circular lens that doesn’t blink, and could ruin their credibility and trust.
The thing is this: the way we communicate has changed…FOREVER! We have proven that we don’t need to get everyone in the same room all the time. We have tried, tested, and explored the boundaries of digital communication and we have discovered a whole new world, where those who learn to navigate the fastest will become the new leaders.
Presenting on camera doesn’t have to be complicated and scary, with practice even the most camera-shy person can find their voice and shine. I’ve had clients who felt sick the moment they picked up the camera, but after a few weeks of practice have started to enjoy it.
I want to let you in on the three secrets I share with all my clients that will increase your on-camera presence and charisma.
1. Passion/Energy/Enthusiasm
This doesn’t mean leaping around like you have had 3 double espressos. All too often I see people become dull and lifeless on camera, it’s a deer in the headlights moment. Lips are moving, words are coming out but there is no life. Failure to bring passion and energy on camera will stop people watching. Remember, they are just one click or swipe of the thumb from silencing you, sending you in to the technology vortex. If you want the viewer to be excited, you need to be excited; if what you’re saying is important, you need to bring the energy of importance.
2. Confidence
One of the biggest killers of trust is a lack of confidence, this is detected in a person’s body language and heard in their voice. Start paying attention to your physiology: how are you holding yourself? Are you swaying back and forth or standing strong? Are you using lots of filler words (um’s and ah’s) or do your words flow?
What’s important is that you understand displaying confidence doesn’t mean the absence of fear, I will often go live or jump on a webinar with a feeling of uncertainty inside, but I will always be aware and deliberate how I am using my body and voice.
3. Contrast
Without contrast you become monotone both in voice and body, which makes you boring and predictable. The moment you become predictable your viewers’ mind will turn off, it assumes what is going to happen next. Adding contrast makes you interesting, it keeps the viewers’ mind engaged. This can be as simple as the way you use gestures, how you use your voice, or moving towards and away from the camera.
I challenge you to grab your camera and give these three tips a try. Who knows, you might start enjoying it!
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Anthony Laye works with entrepreneurs, professionals and executives who want to amplify their speaking and communication skills, so they can stand out, win trust and influence.
