Do this to feel less awkward

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We communicate with our phones. We call, text, email, dm, you name it. We take video with our phones. Easy breezy.

But using our phones to shoot a video of us speaking directly to camera? For many of us, that’s something entirely different…and entirely awkward.

Maybe your company needs you to record an introduction video. Or perhaps you’ve realized you’re the one who should be demoing your product on camera.

To get you ready for your close up, here are 5 steps to make it less cringe.

5 Steps to Feel Less Awkward Talking Directly to Camera

1. Write a script that’s easy to say. Long complex sentences won’t work as well here. Pepper in short sentences.

2. Picture one person who you would ideally like to view your video. How do you want them to feel when watching? Intrigued? Welcomed? Amused?

3. Hold your phone as though you were chatting with a friend. Picture that person that you chose in step two. Now rehearse saying your script out loud as though they were on the other end listening. Act as if it’s a conversation and they just aren’t saying anything yet.

4. Hold the phone further away and keep rehearsing your message out loud, with the intention of connecting with that person.

5. Now turn the camera on and continue sharing your message out loud, STILL with the intention of connecting. Watch it, see what’s working, try again.

When we see our faces looking back at us when filming, it’s easy to forget that we’re actually trying to communicate a message to someone else. It’s tempting to focus on that “weird hair that won’t stay in place.”

Speaking directly to camera becomes much easier once you keep your eye on the prize – that connection with your ideal audience member, who will receive your message in the future.

You got this!