Hello, WriteOnCon speakers! We always get a few questions about how speakers can ensure they have good quality content for our audio and video series. Below are some easy, free/inexpensive ways you can make sure your talk is top quality.

Bonus points: These tips will work in settings other than WriteOnCon, like virtual school visits or author podcasts!

Tips for Podcasts and Live Events

• Consider investing in a basic mic. The Zalman Zm-Mic1 is $8 on Amazon and the Samson Go Mic is $30 — either of these are great value for a quick quality upgrade.
• Try to position yourself between 2 to 6 inches from your microphone. Each mic has a different sweet spot, so if you have time it’s a good idea to play with it (wearing headphones).
• Do not talk straight into your microphone. It’s okay to position it a little to the left or right.
• Broadcast your event from a room with lots of soft surfaces (carpets, bookshelves).
• Wear headphones. This will prevent overlapping voices and echo. Especially important for speaking events with more than one person!

Tips for Podcasts

• Since your audience can’t see you, you can record inside a closet! The sound will be very crisp because there is virtually no echo.
• Consider standing for your event. This minimizes the sound echoing off your table/desk and makes it easier to speak clearly.

Tips for Live Events

• Use an Ethernet for better internet (and video quality).
• Make sure your source of light is behind your monitor (shining toward your face), not behind you.
• Close any unnecessary computer programs — especially if you’re running downloads or other internet-heavy processes.
• Position your camera (or top of your computer) at a little above eye-level. This is always a flattering angle!