Teleprompter Outtakes - Blog from PowerSpeaking on Vimeo.

Here are our best tips for making the teleprompter your friend:

Substance

• Make sure your script is written in a conversational tone. Use crisp, vivid language. Vary the length of your sentences to create an interesting rhythm and emphasize important points. Avoid overly long, complicated sentences.
• Use language that makes your audience feel like you’re talking with them, not at them.  In other words, speak to them as you would to a friend.
• Include pauses in the script where you want to give people time to digest what you just said, or when you’re transitioning to another point.

Style

• Rehearse the script out loud several times prior to filming.
• Practice where and how you’re going to emphasize specific points.
• Wear clothing that is not distracting to the audience or problematic for filming. Example: wear solid colors that don’t get lost or clash with the background.
• Whether you sit or stand, make sure you have a comfortable, solid stance.
• As with any “speech,” use engaging, effective gestures that illustrate and/or support what you’re saying.

Staging

These tips are more for the people setting up the room, operating the camera, and managing the teleprompter:

• Make sure the room/space is distraction-free.
• Set up good, professional lighting.
• Put the subject in focus and the background slightly out of focus. This effect gives a more professional look.
• Use a lavaliere microphone for good-quality sound.
• Make sure the font size of the script on the teleprompter, and the speed at which it scrolls, makes for easy, natural reading.
• During filming, use a “director board” to keep track of the best cuts.

Two last tips: keep a glass of water nearby; and if you struggle through multiple takes of a passage, take a break. Walk outside, breathe, stretch. You’ll come back to the teleprompter refreshed.

If you’d like more presentation/speaking skills training, check out our upcoming classes, below, or visit www.powerspeaking.com.

On the journey with you . . .
The PowerSpeaking Team