Microphone Technique 101
Here are nine tips on microphone technique to maximise your message, and not ruin your reputation, when giving a speech.
- Never swear in front of a microphone
Never swear in front of a microphone, because you never know when it is on!
This mistake can also cost you money, but your personal or professional reputation is priceless.
Remember you can never take it back, so it is better to be disciplined in the first place.
- Use a microphone if more than 30 people
The human voice is a delicate instrument.
Treat it with respect. Do not strain it because you can do long term and irreversible damage.
Always ask for and use a microphone if there are more than 30 people in the audience.
Explain to the organisers what type of microphone you want well before you speak.
I usually have a set of AV requirements that I send to a conference organiser at least six weeks before I present. This includes my preferred type of microphone, lighting and how I want the stage set up.
- Work out the best microphone for the situation - impact, peace of mind and hassle free
A podium microphone is going to give you maximum impact for a Presidential style presentation, where you use the podium as an anchor point.
The benefits of using a podium microphone are peace of mind and a hassle free speech, because you can set and forget.
- Work out the best microphone for the situation - impact, freedom and mobility
A lapel microphone is very small and uses a clip to attach to clothing of the presenter.
If you want to move around and away from the podium, it takes the place of a more static-position microphone.
The lapel microphone is plugged into a console which is attached to your belt and can amplify your voice without you having to hold onto it.
They are often wireless and linked back to the main PA system. As you get more experienced, you learn to ignore the microphone and even use the tilt and angle of your head to vary your volume, tone and timbre into the microphone.
One trap for people. If you are using a lapel microphone, make sure you have turned it off before you go to the toilet.
I've heard of speakers relieving themselves only to find out the whole audience heard everything because their lapel microphone was still on and broadcasting to the whole auditorium!
The headset microphone is a variation, but I've found headsets a little cumbersome and intrusive to work with.
- Work out the best microphone for the situation - impact, impact and impact
There is no doubt a hand held microphone gives you the greatest vocal range and control.
This is why it is so popular with entertainers and performers.
- Be familiar with the "on and off" switch
Even seasoned professionals can get caught out and it reflects badly on you as a presenter.
Spend time becoming familiar with the on and off switch. I've lost count the number of times a speaker looks unprofessional when on stage they say, "how do you turn this thing on" or some variation.
- Use the clenched fist rule
The best way to position the microphone in relation to your mouth and lips is to make a clenched fist. This is the optimal distance the microphone should be from your mouth.
- Speak directly into the microphone
Broadcasters hate to be "off mike" because the sound quality is poor.
Always speak directly into a microphone. Use a windsock if external noise or to avoid popping with the letter "p".
- Always do a sound check
Do a sound check before you present.
Check the whole stage for feedback spots.
Treat the professional sound crew with respect. Introduce yourself and explain clearly what you want to do and rehearse, especially for a complex presentation.
Thank them afterwards.
Author Credits
Thomas Murrell MBA CSP is an international business speaker, author and award-winning broadcaster. His latest book, 'Understanding Influence For Leaders At All Levels' has just been published by McGraw-Hill. 'Media Motivators' is his regular electronic magazine read by 7,000 professionals in 15 different countries. You can subscribe by visiting http://www.8mmedia.com/. Thomas can be contacted directly at +6189388 6888 and is available to speak to your conference, seminar or event. Visit Tom's blog at http://www.8mmedia.blogspot.com/ for his latest insights and ideas.