Hybrid presenting can be awkward – 4 tips I’ve learned the hard way!
If you ever need to present to 2 audiences at once, you’d probably agree with me that it has its challenges.
I frequently have to do hybrid workshops, and even with experience, I still don’t find it a natural process.
I’m used to how it feels, but there’s definitely more cognitive load happening.
And presenting or running a workshop is already a lot, isn’t it?
- Monitoring what’s in front of you. How is the audience going? Do you need to pivot, explain an idea further, or stop talking?
- Navigating your word choices! Especially if you’re managing different audience levels in the room. The more senior, the more pressure too.
- Thinking where you’re going next with your content, while you’re speaking.
- Co-ordinating with slides if you’re using them.
And more. It’s a juggle.
Whether it’s a team briefing, conference or pitch, hybrid events are now part of how we work. But they do come with a unique challenge:
Keeping both your in-person and virtual audiences engaged.
If this is you: 4 pieces of advice to help you show up confidently and connect with both:
1. Speak to the lens (sometimes)
Remembering to look directly into the camera – or as approximately as you can if it’s at a distance – is eye contact for your online audience.
Treat the lens like it’s a person—they’ll feel more included and less like they’re watching from the sidelines.
And if that direct eye contact isn’t possible, try the body language and verbal cues below instead.
2. Involve both audiences verbally
Ask questions or get active with hands up or similar —but call it out:
“For those of you online— unmute or pop your answer in the chat. In the room—hand up if…”
I’ve also learned that when I’m working with online participants in different parts of the country or world, it’s great to start with their location first:
“Brisbane, how does…”
Acknowledging both groups is simple, but so easy to forget – and it signals that everyone matters.
3. Turn towards the online group
When you’re in front of a room and the online group is out of sight, it’s easy for them to be out of mind, too.
Remembering to turn in their camera direction some of the time will help them to feel included. Particularly if direct eye contact isn’t possible.
4. Repeat the Question
When someone in the room asks a question, repeat or paraphrase it for your virtual attendees.
It’s easy to forget, but unless the in-room mic picks them up clearly, your online group misses context and disconnects.
And you know me well enough by now to know that disconnection is one of the worst sins when we’re communicating!
Just a quick:
“Repeating for everyone online: you’re asking about what to do when you see blank faces in the audience…”
This keeps everyone on the same page and shows you’re thinking inclusively.
To sum up
Hybrid doesn’t have to mean awkward! With a few small shifts, I’ve learned that it’s possible to show up as a leader in both spaces.
There may still be clunky moments…and that may be just part of the deal when we add tech into the mix.
Until next time—
Step Up | Be Heard | Stand Out
