There are a few experiences as annoying as witnessing and hearing yourself on video. Simultaneously, it serves as an immensely potent instrument for self-reflection and enhancing your interpersonal skills. Within this persuasion tip, you will find out how you can easily benefit from this method and we’ll also spare you from a potential meltdown ;).
As individuals continue to document their lives through vlogs and video messages, the discomfort of seeing oneself on camera is gradually diminishing. However, utilising these recordings to enhance our performance in meetings and presentations still tends to be limited to CEOs and politicians who prioritise their personal growth.
Gone are the days when improving your performance in online presentations and meetings seemed out of reach. Extensive research (1) highlights the profound impact of the ‘video feedback’ approach on enhancing interaction skills. By recording your meetings or presentations, you unlock tremendous potential to observe yourself in action, facilitating significant advancements in your performance. What sets video feedback apart is the ability to view yourself objectively, allowing for valuable self-reflection and fostering a more authenthic self-perception (2). Through video feedback, you gain invaluable insights into the reciprocal interaction between yourself and others. You may discover instances where your message lacked clarity or where emotions influenced your responses. By reviewing these moments, you cultivate a profound awareness of your communication style and skill set. Remember, awareness serves as the pivotal initial stride towards transformation!
“Video recordings used for feedback purposes can be likened to fireworks. When skillfully handled by an expert, they yield magnificent outcomes, leaving you in awe. However, in the hands of an amateur, they often result in mishaps and less impressive displays.”
Indeed, proper guidance is paramount in this endeavor. Mishandling this method can swiftly erode your self-confidence. Engaging an expert or utilising a peer review form can redirect your attention towards the essential aspects. Research (1) indicates that the impact of video feedback is notably enhanced when employing a structured observation checklist. Without this focus, you risk being sidetracked by seemingly useful but ultimately futile details, impeding your progress in practice. A great example is the use of filler words. When seeking feedback on a video recording of a performance, this aspect often takes center stage. Curiously, such feedback tends to emerge only if the audience was prompted to provide their input prior to viewing the recording. Otherwise, they might not have even noticed these filler words afterwards. In essence, this type of amateur feedback offers limited value and can even be detrimental. It runs the risk of needlessly amplifying self-doubt, leaving you insecure about your performance. Instead, opt for an observation or peer review form crafted by an expert that steers your attention towards the crucial elements. This approach ensures you consistently focus on areas ripe for improvement and continual growth.
In essence, dare to venture beyond your comfort zone and create that recording that will profoundly improve your communication skills. Embracing a touch of self-mockery can be surprisingly beneficial. (Make sure ask for consent from your colleagues before pressing the record button.)
Good luck!
(1) Fukking, R.G., Trienekens, N. & Kramer, L.J.C. (2010). Video‐feedback in opleiding en training: Leren in beeld gebracht
(2) Fuller, F. F. & Manning, B. A. (1973). Self-confrontation reviewed: a conceptualization for video playback in teacher education. Review of Educational Research, 43(4), 469-528
Illuminating Inspiration: Signify’s Top Executives Mastering Persuasive... 
