TURN IT UP
Andrea Pacini —
When I first started presenting online, I watched a recording of one of my sessions – and I was shocked. I thought I’d been animated and expressive. But on screen, I looked flat. My voice sounded dull. The energy I’d felt just didn’t come through.
That’s when I realised: presenting on camera drains about 10–15% of your energy. There’s a screen between you and your audience, and it acts like a filter. What feels lively in person can come across as muted online.
To compensate, I’ve learned to dial it up to give my energy a boost so it survives the screen.
Here are two habits that help:
- Use your voice like an instrument. Vary your pace, volume and tone. Keep it dynamic.
- Smile more than you think you need to. On camera, even a big smile can look subtle. So push it just a little further.
These small adjustments can make a big difference. They make your presence online as strong as it would be in the room.
This reflection is adapted from Timeless Presenter, my book on the principles of communication that never expire.