Speaking on Camera: A Guide for Business Leaders and Professionals

In today’s hybrid and digital-first world, speaking on camera has become an essential leadership skill. Whether you’re delivering a virtual keynote, presenting to stakeholders on Teams, or fronting an internal training video, how you communicate on camera shapes how your message—and your leadership—is received.

But for many professionals, the camera can feel like a barrier instead of a bridge.

The good news? Speaking on camera is a skill you can train. And with a few foundational techniques, you can communicate with clarity, credibility, and composure—every time the red light goes on.

1. Learn Your Message, Not a Script

Business leaders don’t need to memorise—they need to connect. Instead of scripting every word, start with a clear outline of your key points and practice delivering them in your own words.

Think of it like a client conversation or boardroom presentation. Speak to the person on the other side of the lens, not at them.

Pro tip: Rehearse aloud and record a few informal takes. Review your tone, energy, and clarity. You’ll quickly spot where you can tighten your delivery or make it more natural.

2. Eye Contact Is Still Everything—Even Virtually

One of the most overlooked parts of speaking on camera is eye contact. If you’re watching yourself on-screen, your audience sees you looking slightly away. Instead, look directly into the camera lens. This creates a sense of direct engagement and authority.

Technical tip: Use a webcam mount or adjust your device so the lens is at eye level. Tools like teleprompter apps or sticky notes near the lens can help you keep your focus.

3. Leverage Your On Camera Presence

Your presence isn’t just about words—it’s about posture, framing, and visual composition. Sit or stand with confidence, shoulders back, and make sure your camera is stable and centered.

Use the rule of thirds: keep your eyes one-third down from the top of the screen and avoid excessive headroom. Simple, professional backgrounds are best—let your presence do the talking.

4. Your Voice Is a Leadership Tool—Warm It Up

The camera flattens energy, so you’ll need to elevate your vocal delivery slightly. This doesn’t mean being theatrical—it means speaking with intention.

Before filming or going live, warm up with vocal exercises, stretch your facial muscles, and try a few energizing tongue twisters. Even a quick walk or coffee can help you sound more dynamic and less robotic.

Quick hack: Smile as you speak. It subtly shifts your vocal tone and adds warmth to your delivery.

5. Invest in Good Audio—It’s Non-Negotiable

If your video looks average but sounds excellent, your audience will stay engaged. If the audio is poor? You’ve likely lost them.

Use a dedicated microphone—USB, lapel, or shotgun—and record in a quiet, carpeted room. Avoid echoes, buzzing, and background noise. Always test your sound before recording or presenting.

Bonus tip: Use headphones to check audio levels. A minor background hum may go unnoticed live but will stand out in recordings.

6. Be Authentically You—But the Executive Version

On camera, people connect with people—not corporate jargon. So while professionalism is a must, authenticity is what builds trust.

Speak the way you would in a high-stakes client meeting: warm, clear, and confident. Use storytelling. Share insights. Be real—but polished.

Unlock the Power of Speaking On Camera with Confidence

Developing your confidence on camera doesn’t happen overnight—but with the right training, it happens faster than you think.

Speaking on camera isn’t about performing—it’s about connecting with clarity and intention. As a business leader, your ability to command a virtual room is just as critical as leading one in person.

So don’t leave it to chance. Train the skill. Refine your delivery. And show up as the leader your message deserves.