In a previous article we discussed 6 different formats you can choose from depending on your own level of comfort in front of the camera and in interacting with other, both the audience, and other participants.
Now that we have outline the six,
1-Presentation
2-Interactive
3-Presentation with Interactive at the end
4-Interview
5-Slideshow
6-Screenshare/Demonstration
we can discuss why each format works and whether or not it will work with your particular audience and subscriber list. We will also discuss the level of difficulty in relation to setting up each. One other key consideration in making your choice will be your skills level related to these different presentational styles, including, but not limited to, your skills in:
- Public speaking
- Interviewing
- Software and technology
If you’ve reached the point in your business where you really have tried everything to build audience and brand but still haven’t managed to build your business to a self-sustaining level, now could be the right time to start marketing your products and services through successful webinars.
1-Presentation – Ideal for beginners, great for an audience that wants to learn more. Plan and organize it well and include a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), and you should be able to meet your webinar goals. This format should also be very easy and pose no technical challenges other than using the interface you have chosen for your webinar.
2-Interactive – Intermediate to advanced. You should prepare a range of slides and anticipate a range of FAQs and have answers ready for your audience. The technology will be a bit more complicated but easy enough for anyone to use after a couple of walk-throughs; offer a range of ways for people to interact, including emailing questions prior to the event.
3-Presentation with Interactive at the end-Any level of presenter can do this as long as they master the software needed. Simple to moderate technological levels are typical. There are free services and paid ones. Compare them and see what makes sense for your level of business, budget and skills.
4-Interview – One on one is intimate, detailed and controlled. If you choose to allow questions, you can make life easier by using your FAQs to start with, or asking participants to send in questions beforehand. An interview is a great way to position yourself as an expert and build loyalty, because you are creating the perception that you are someone worth knowing.
If you are interviewing others, for example, as part of a panel presentation, you are also putting yourself on a par with the experts and establishing yourself in your niche. However, both of these formats might be better suited to someone advanced in their niche, unless you have a great contact list already.
5-Slideshow-Pre-prepared, this format puts you fully in control. It can also allow for interactivity if you are willing to pause the slides to answer questions. This is good for all levels, including beginner. Prerequisites-the ability to produce a professional-looking PowerPoint Presentation. The technical aspects will be the same plus the ability to use the webinar interface.
6-Screenshare/Demonstration – This puts you in complete control to do the ultimate show and tell online.
Intermediate to advanced webinar skills will be required, and of course command of any software or other material that you will be demonstrating to your audience.
These 6 formats are the standard ways to give successful webinars. Choose the one/s that are right for your personality and business.
