It's the day of the workshop! As you get ready to present, keep in mind that you are presenting to two different audiences: those in person, and those over Zoom. It can be easy to prioritize one group over the other as you present, and you may focus on in-person attendees to the detriment of those online. As such, some best practices for hybrid presenting include:
- Use the microphone. Even if you are in a small space, use the microphone. It's better for you to be a bit loud than to find out participants had trouble hearing you and couldn't understand what you were saying.
- Acknowledge both in-person and virtual participants at the beginning of the workshop, and make sure to address virtual participants throughout the event. Even acknowledging virtual participants only at the beginning shows that you want them there and intend to include them throughout the event.
- Alternate between looking at in-person participants and at the cameras in the room. This can be difficult to remember, but doing so can help virtual participants feel more involved in the workshop.
- Repeat all questions before answering them, and if possible, identify the question asker. In-person and virtual participants may not be able to see or hear questions from the other group. Repeat all questions before answering them to make sure all participants understand what you are talking about and can continue to follow along with the workshop.