When it comes to visually representing yourself in front of the camera, the response most people would have is, “I don’t feel confident in front of a camera.” There is a phobia about seeing a recorded version of ourselves and, even worse, hearing the sound of our voice played back over the speakers. It’s not surprising that many entrepreneurs are hesitant to create a brand video for themselves.
But there is a hidden power when you choose to face your fears and appear on camera. You have a message that needs to be heard, and if you chose to summon the courage to deliver it, you would have given your potential clients the opportunity to meet the person behind the brand.
No one appears confident in front of the camera overnight. It is normal to experience ‘stage-fright’. The good news is that this is a skill that can be learned. Here are some tips that will help you appear confident while filming a video.
1. Prepare a script – Know your topic deeply
We encourage our clients to write their own scripts. This is especially true if you are creating a personal brand video where you are the face of the video. Remember, you are the expert in the industry you represent. Once you feel confident about the content you have prepared, the delivery will become much easier. Even if you prefer not to have a line-for-line script, create a content plan. Writing your thoughts down will help you evaluate the message you want to convey.
2. Keep practising
Spend some time before your shoot day going over your script and practising it in front of the mirror. It’s OK if you can’t memorise every line. This is where our handy teleprompter comes in! The teleprompter will be made available to you during the shoot. Your practise sessions will help you become acquainted with your script, improve your tone of voice, and become more aware of subtle nuances in your body language. It would be great if you could record your own video so that you could review it later. If you keep cringing every time you view it, try to put the emotion aside, and ask yourself objectively, “What is truly disturbing me?”
3. Dress confidently
Yes, it does work! If you dress well, you’ll feel more confident. So do go ahead and wear that power suit, style your hair before the shoot and hire a makeup artist. You’ll look and feel like a million dollars. If you keep worrying about how you look in front of the camera, guess what will show up on camera? Your insecurities. Smile, and remind yourself that you look wonderful today!
4. Take deep breaths before starting
On the day of the shoot, try to get into a relaxed state of mind. It’s helpful to arrive early so you do not feel rushed into the session. Before you start, take a few deep breaths to relax and remind yourself that you have shown up and that you are brave!
5. Pay attention to your body language
Roll your shoulders back, stand tall, and feel strong. Ignore the chatter in your mind that tells you, “You look awkward. You’re such a fake. You can’t deliver this content properly. ” Feel your body lengthen as you are about to begin. Pay attention to any stress points that you might have in your body, and envision them dissolving as you breathe.
6. Think and feel the words that you are saying
When you look into the camera, try to imagine that you are talking to a friend, rather than presenting to a thousand people. When you speak, it’s OK to look away at times from the camera, because it’s natural in a normal conversation with a friend. You don’t have to stare at the camera as you deliver your content. Start to think about the words you are saying (instead of reading them without emotions) and start to feel a sense of conviction arise in you.
7. Change your mindset
Lastly, it’s important to have a positive mindset. It’s OK to not have a perfect delivery. Even if you make a mistake, that’s normal. Sometimes, the imperfections make your recording even more authentic. Stop worrying about the video being a “performance” that you must excel in, but rather, think about it as an important conversation you need to have with a friend. Finally, be kind to yourself. After all, we are our own worst critics. Instead of feeling self-conscious, focus on the value of your message, and your audience will connect with you.
Here are some other tips from a seasoned trainer, Jeyaraman Seenivasagam.
When you’re feeling ready to record a personal brand video, give us a holler and we’ll be happy to have a chat with you! To find out more about our Visual Brand Kit and what it includes, click on the link below.
