Koval’s Presentation Cheatsheet
Checklist for being ready to make the perfect virtual presentation.
❏ SET-UP LAPTOP LOCATION & CAMERA ANGLE
- Find a well-lit spot, near a window or other soft light source.
- Make sure the background isn’t too cluttered. Simplicity is best.
- Clear any messy and/or distracting items so the audience’s focus stays on me.
- If possible, place the laptop up high so I can stand and present with more energy.
- Keep the camera at eye-level or slightly higher (more flattering angle).
- Compose the frame with normal headroom at the top.
- Have plenty of power; plugged-in or battery charged.
❏ ENSURE GREAT SOUND
- Make sure there’s no current background noise.
- Make sure there’s no chance of background noise (phone ringing, delivery, alarms)
- Avoid external mics and bulky headphones since they’re often problematic.
- If I’m using them, do a TEST call with a friend for sync & connectivity issues.
- Know how to quickly mute & unmute. For many apps, it’s the space bar.
❏ BE FULLY REHEARSED
- Rehearse from the same location where I’ll present, so I feel used to it.
- Get all browser windows & tabs ready – my slides, notes etc. Clear others.
- Rehearse from start to finish. Know the material like the back of my hand.
- Practice slide transitions and tricky areas (playing videos, showing live links, etc.)
- Know the call agenda. Who’s before me, who’s after?
- Rehearse the hand-offs – what I’ll say when introduced, what I’ll say at the very end.
- Have a general plan for if there’s a technical glitch or interruption.
❏ NAIL MY DELIVERY
- Get my energy up just before the call (jumping jacks? coffee? techno music?).
- Calm my nerves if needed. It’s not about me. Focus on helping my audience learn.
- Check a mirror. Hair OK? No food in teeth? Nose clear?
- Speak loudly & confidently, but also be my real, authentic self. Have fun with it.
- Be expressive and animated – use hand gestures when natural.
- Don’t read! People can see me reading. Explain points in a conversational way.
- CRUSH IT!