Coaching authenticity on-camera

Using business video can provide a powerful competitive advantage — IF you take the right approach. On camera, you have to present yourself with authenticity.

The secret to authenticity

Forget everything else, and just say it to me. Say it to me… as a friend.Lionel Loque, speech therapist

In The King’s Speech, King George VI sees a speech therapist to help him cope with a stammer. In one of the best scenes ever, the King relies on his therapist, Lionel Logue, to coach him while he delivers his first wartime radio broadcast. Just before he begins, Lionel encourages the King to speak authentically. As a result, King George delivers an historic address, moving the British people to rally behind its declaration of war on Germany in 1939.

Present Yourself

Online, your video will be viewed by hundreds, maybe thousands. However, the way to successful results is not to present yourself as if you’re trying to impress all of them at once.

You are NOT a mouthpiece. You are NOT a talking head. You are not your talking points. You are a human being with a personality of your own, and a responsibility to customers, prospects and stakeholders.

• To engage online video viewers, be yourself.
• Share something personal
• Relate an experience that might benefit them.
• Speak like you are telling a friend a story at Starbucks.
• With online video, you’re not delivering a speech. You’re making and keeping a friend. While you hope for it to reach your audience, they will likely view it one by one.

With so many alternatives to consider today, consumers are seeking information and relationships which will provide unique advantages for them. Sounding scripted, disingenuous, or not very authentic can cause viewers to click away in a hurry…even when what you have to share could benefit them greatly! So, when you present yourself using business video online, be yourself! Be authentic. No one is better qualified!