Things are not always what they seem, a light-hearted look at a few “true confessions” that I’ll admit as a virtual presentation coach . . .
- Fake outfits. Sometimes (actually, usually), I don’t dress up as much for video calls as I would in-person. You might think I do, because the part you see is dressed up, but the other parts . . . maybe not. And, I’m not the only one! See this hilarious clip of someone who has taken deceptive dressing to the next level. And for phone (audio-only), I don’t dress up at all!
- Stealth muting. On phone (audio-only) calls, I admit to muting the call while my client is speaking so that I can use the bathroom without my client knowing. When you gotta go, you gotta go!
- Client research. I research your website and social media profiles, and google your name. I know way more about you than you think I do. I’ve learned not to be too creepy and not to reveal more than you have on your LinkedIn profile or website.
- Blaming the cat. If something goes wrong, I blame the cat. My cat can be annoying and do things like sit on my keyboard, but sometimes I blame the cat, even if it wasn’t the cat.
- Parroting what you say. I will repeat back or slightly rephrase some of what you say. This makes you feel like I “get” you. I actually take notes during our conversations so I can use your exact words.
- Buying time with questions. Sometimes I ask clarifying questions because it allows me to stall for time while I try to think of something helpful to say.
- Motivation reality check. I know that you won’t work on a presentation unless you actually have one on the books. That’s why I only do coaching in the context of an upcoming scheduled presentation. That’s also when you are more willing to pay my fee.
- I’m not that much of an expert on YOUR topic. But, hey, I’ll google your topic so I don’t sound like an idiot. Google is my best friend.
- Smiling! I really do smile before answering the phone, just like my mother told me, “They can hear your smile.”
