Application and Video Submissions

I often get asked for recommendations on completing the video submission for online teaching platforms.  I even get asked to send videos of my prerecorded classes.  There are two reasons I don’t make mock class videos or share my pre-recorded classes.

1. Watching a mock submission made by anyone doesn’t help that person create their own video.  It may provide them with some guidance, but it can also make them feel like they need to copy the style of the person creating the mock video.
2. My prerecorded classes include the content that I teach.  I only make that content available through my Masterclass.

As someone that also requires video submissions for my Academy and previously worked as an applicant reviewer, there are certain things companies are looking for during the hiring process.  The biggest problem I have seen is the submission of incomplete applications and spelling or grammatical errors.  All of these things need to be reviewed along with the video submission following the guidelines.

If the video guidelines state the submission needs to be between 90 – 5 minutes, DO NOT go over or under the allotted time.

 

1. Follow the directions

Submit all the required documents for the application.  Don’t submit some of the work and think that you’ll be granted the opportunity to submit the rest later.  I have had so many people apply and state, “I’ll send the rest later.”  I am not going to save three emails to compile all the documents together.  Everything needs to be submitted together.

2. Do not read from a script

If you want it to look like you don’t know what you plan on teaching, use a script.  However, this is not the goal.  You want to appear confident and well-versed in the topic you plan on teaching.  If you are reading off a script or even your screen, it is very noticeable.  In most instances, you are not going to get training on how to teach the content matter.  For organizations and platforms that provide the material, there will be a level of training.  If you want to become a #teacherpreneur and teach your own material, you should have some expertise in the field.  Reading from a script makes it appear as if you don’t know what you are talking about and you won’t be able to read from a script while teaching your classes (I mean, you could, but you very likely won’t get repeat enrollments).

3. Have a background

Your background doesn’t have to be fancy; you don’t need an entire whiteboard full of activities unless that is how you want your background.  Just make sure it is free of distractions.  It is best to teach towards a wall, this way you don’t have to be considered with family members walking behind you as you are working.  A simple trifold could work too.

4. Lighting

Just remember, the light should always be placed in front of you or overhead, not behind.  Make sure you are visible without shadows.  

5. Speak up

During the mock video submission, speak as if you are speaking to an audience.  You want to make sure your words are loud and clear.

6. Bonus Tips: Body Placement

Make sure there is some space above your head, your shoulders should be visible, and don’t lean into the camera.  You don’t want your face too close to the camera.

7. Bonus Tips: The Mock Video

I always call this the “Dora the Explorer” style.  Teach as if you have an audience.  Pause, ask questions, wait for responses, continue.