10 Tips to Sound More Natural When Using a Teleprompter
Teleprompters are invaluable tools for delivering polished presentations, but many people struggle to sound natural while reading from them. The robotic, monotone delivery that often results can disconnect you from your audience. Whether you're a content creator, speaker, or business professional, these ten tips will help you maintain your authentic voice while using a teleprompter.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Script Beforehand
One of the biggest mistakes people make is seeing their script for the first time on the teleprompter. Spend time reading through your content several times before the actual recording. Understanding the flow and key points will help you deliver with confidence rather than simply reading words on a screen.
2. Practice Reading Out Loud
Reading silently and reading aloud are completely different skills. Practice your script by reading it out loud several times. This helps you identify awkward phrasing, tongue twisters, or sections that don't sound natural when spoken. Make edits as needed to improve flow.
3. Write Like You Speak
The key to sounding natural is having a script that matches your speaking style. Write in a conversational tone using contractions, simple language, and your natural speech patterns. Avoid complex sentences and formal language that you wouldn't normally use in conversation.
4. Break Up Your Text with Natural Pauses
Add visual cues in your script to remind yourself where to pause, emphasize words, or change your tone. Some teleprompter software allows you to add these markers, or you can use symbols and formatting in your script. These breathing moments help your delivery sound more natural.
5. Maintain Eye Contact Through the Camera
The best teleprompters allow you to read while looking directly at the camera. Practice maintaining "eye contact" with your audience through the lens. Even a slight shift in gaze can make you appear disconnected. Position the teleprompter as close to the camera as possible to maintain this connection.
6. Adjust the Speed to Your Natural Pace
Every person has a different natural speaking rhythm. Work with a teleprompter operator (or adjust the settings yourself) to find the perfect scroll speed that matches your natural cadence. Too fast creates anxiety, while too slow can lead to awkward pauses.
7. Use Gestures and Body Language
Don't let the teleprompter freeze your body. Incorporate natural hand gestures and body language that complement your message. Movement helps you appear more dynamic and engaged, breaking the "reading" pattern that can make your delivery seem stiff.
8. Add Personal Touches
Include occasional ad-lib moments in your delivery. Small personal asides, reactions, or brief moments off-script can make your presentation feel more authentic and less rehearsed. Just be sure to mark these moments in your script so you can easily return to the teleprompter.
9. Practice with the Actual Teleprompter
If possible, schedule a practice session with the teleprompter before your actual presentation. This allows you to get comfortable with the equipment, font size, scroll speed, and physical setup. Familiarity with the tool will reduce anxiety and help you focus on your delivery.
10. Record and Review Your Performance
Nothing beats self-assessment for improvement. Record practice sessions and review them critically. Look for patterns like monotone delivery, stiff posture, or unnatural pacing. Each review will help you make small adjustments that lead to a more natural presentation.
Conclusion
Using a teleprompter effectively is a skill that improves with practice. By implementing these ten tips, you'll be able to harness the benefits of prepared content while maintaining your authentic voice and connection with your audience. Remember that the teleprompter is a tool to enhance your communication, not replace your personality.
With GoTeleprompter's intuitive interface and customizable features, you can apply these techniques more easily and deliver presentations that are both polished and natural. The right tools combined with the right techniques will elevate your speaking to a professional level while keeping your authentic voice intact.