Richard AgamaIf you’ve never read from a teleprompter before, it’s natural to be a bit nervous. After all, delivering a live speech or newscast can be a challenge. The good news is that the teleprompter is there to help you, not hinder you. As long as you follow along, the teleprompter will be your best friend. Here are a few handy tips for reading off a teleprompter.
Rehearse Beforehand
Practice makes perfect, and the same is valid for reading off teleprompters. Arrive on set as early as possible so that you can catch the videographers setting up the teleprompter. That gives you the golden opportunity to have some practice time with the device. When rehearsing, remember to:
- Adjust the font size and scrolling speed to your liking.
- Practice the cadence and rhythm of your speech with the teleprompter.
- Check to see if your script needs any formatting changes.
Rehearsing can make or break your broadcast, so don’t forget to do it!
Get To Know Your Teleprompter
There are many different types of teleprompters, from iPads to camera-mounted prompters, and they all have their own ways of presenting text. Ask the production crew what type of teleprompter they intend to use for your broadcast.
Memorize Your Script
A teleprompter will show you your script, but that’s not an excuse not to memorize it. If you want to deliver a successful speech, you need to know your script word for word. This way, you’ll be prepared for any emergency. What if you get halfway through your script when the teleprompter goes out? In this case, having your script memorized will be invaluable. You’ll be able to continue speaking without missing a beat.
Try Bullet Points
Some speakers prefer bullet points instead of typing their scripts out word for word. If you know your script inside and out, then using bullet points can help immensely. They’ll help you remember your place and feed you the most critical points. The next time you use a teleprompter, try out this technique. You may find it works far better than typing out your entire script.
Those are our top tips for reading off a teleprompter. Follow this guide, and you’ll be able to make quick work of your next broadcasted speech.
