So, we all do it. We multi-task, even at inappropriate times, such as during a meeting, or especially during a virtual meeting or webinar. Who hasn't realized that they missed that key piece of information while responding to the fire drill of the hour, or worse, while checking scores from last night's games. It's just too easy to claim that extra mile of "productivity" when you're not called on for direct interaction.
As a presenter, how do you get around this? There're plenty of time-tested techniques that command direct interaction: polls, directed Q&A, tests, etc. However, one simple technique may be hanging from your neck: the corporate photo. When you attend a webinar, and the presenter's photo is displayed, you immediately have an affiliation with that person you'd never have without the photo. Instead of tuning out a webinar, you're now turning away from Chris, the guy with the nice voice and the red tie who has all of these great tips on how to market your product.
It's such a simple thing, but in this age of "virtuality," every chance you get to make it personal helps. And in the case of a webinar, if you're not a huge company, then your photo can increase your brand awareness. If you include your photo on all virtual communications (email, invitations, confirmations, follow-up messages after a webinar), that recognizable photo can increase your brand awareness with your customers.
And, so what if you don't like YOUR photo? Use something else. Like a photo of the black bear that dumps your cans on trash-pick-up mornings. That bear photo will still invoke an image, and a memory, to keep you in front of your customer when you're actually miles away.
And, so what if you don't like YOUR photo? Use something else. Like a photo of the black bear that dumps your cans on trash-pick-up mornings. That bear photo will still invoke an image, and a memory, to keep you in front of your customer when you're actually miles away.
So, what do you think? Post a comment and explain how a corporate photo made a difference in a webinar you've attended, or helped in communications with a client or a supplier.
