Public Speaking to Virtual Speaking: Is it so Different?

Public Speaking to Virtual Speaking: Is it so Different?

Antoinette Ellis

I could sum this up in one word and be done with it, however; one would have to understand the symmetry and the stark contrast between the two mediums in order to properly answer the question at hand. Or do they? Given our current situation, in the middle of a pandemic, we are forced to make a shift from public to virtual. The question really is how we do it tactfully and with impact?

How does a public speaker transition to no longer having this familiar forum to deliver their wealth of knowledge to an eagerly awaiting audience (hopefully)?

For those who have already bravely chosen to deliver their content on stage in a room full of unknown faces, you have already overcome or learned to deal with the difficulty of stage fright. This overtime comes with the added experience of “reading the room”, the cheat sheet in knowing if your audience is engaged in your delivery or not. However; now you are online and not everyone will be visible on their webcam so that you can read their facial expressions. So now what?

No matter what you have to say in your delivery, the content will remain the same, and even the way you deliver it will still hold true to its parallel similarities more so than its contrast in venue. Whether you choose to present standing or sitting the rules don’t change, be as benevolent, engaging, and even more interactive with said audience. With that being said, it doesn’t matter if you are a professional speaker or novice, your delivery should be planned, articulate, and impactful.

Both forums utilize the audience that is interested in the topic you are presenting. Whereas on stage the spectator’s aptitude for using online tools was rarely in question much less an afterthought. Your virtual audience “should” already have that covered. So feel free to venture into the limitless effects you can add to your online presentation.

For me to say, I know it all and this is easy for me as a professional, would be arrogant. I have had many opportunities to speak on various forums and I still get nervous every time. This is regardless if it’s in person or virtual, the difference is I have learned how to be comfortable with it. It’s a part of the process. I had a great mentor explain to me, that when you are nervous it means you care about your delivery. You dot your I’s and cross your T’s. When you are too confident it leaves room for mistakes. This is not the same for everyone but I’m letting you know that it’s ok to be nervous. What you have to remember is that the same process applies in public or virtually. You have to plan, be articulate, and be impactful.

So back to the original question, Public Speaking to Virtual Speaking: is it so Different? For me it isn’t, but don’t take my word for it, go out there, speak and come up with your own observation. Your virtual audience is waiting for you.