Virtual Tips for Nonprofit Speakers

In this new socially-distanced world, many of us have become at-home content creators—from talk-show hosts to nonprofit executive directors. For those who aren’t used to being in front of cameras, presenting over video and recording speeches to supporters can be quite intimidating.

Right now, connecting with donors and funding the work of nonprofits is critically important. We want to help you feel confident delivering powerful messages about the important work you do and why it’s worth supporting—even when you’re talking to donors from your living room. Below is a list of quick tips for nonprofit speakers navigating the virtual world.

Set Up Your At-Home Studio

• To record or stream your speech or presentation, you can use your cell phone, laptop camera or a webcam. If you’re using a cell phone or personal video camera, you’ll want to also use a tripod or something stable to hold your device, so the shot is level and steady throughout.
• The filming device should be no more than an arm’s length from you to pick up the best audio. Do a couple test runs to make sure you’re capturing good audio. You want folks to hear you! If you need the help of a microphone, try using headphones that have a small microphone attached that lands close to your mouth—something like the Apple earphones that come with an iPhone.
• If you’re filming with a cell phone or camera, make sure your device is in landscape mode so it fills the wider screen layout when streamed. Don’t use the zoom function or filters as these effects lower the video quality.

Get the Best Shot

• It’s all about the lighting! And when it comes to filming at home, natural lighting is the best option. Avoid using direct overhead light at all costs—you want the light to be hitting your face from behind the camera. Filming yourself while facing a window is a great way to make use of natural light.
• You also want to be mindful about what’s in the background behind you. Neutral and simple backgrounds are best. You want people focused on listening to you, not dissecting everything that’s going on behind you.
• The lens of the camera should be at eye-level or slightly above. If possible, you will want to stand or sit in a sturdy chair so you aren’t slumping. This will help you look your best AND deliver your remarks with energy.
• As for your wardrobe, wear what makes you feel confident but avoid horizontal stripes or small patterns. These designs can sometimes appear distorted or distracting on video.

Deliver Your Message with Confidence

• Your supporters want to know what you’re doing to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic—even if you’re not on the frontlines of care. We’re all impacted by this crisis in different ways, so it’s important to lead with how you are adapting to move your mission forward.
• Check out these tips from public speaking coach Gigi Rosenberg on presenting from home: “Imagine your best friend sitting in that camera lens and tell your story to them.”
• Take this advice from our friend and #donorlove expert, Jen Love: “Now is the time for real, emotional and vulnerable fundraising.”

Keep this in mind: you don’t have to create the best-ever, over-the-top production to communicate with your donors and community. Simplicity and honesty can cut through the noise. But you do have to keep the conversation going. They’re waiting to hear from you.