Today you are going to learn 15 actionable wireless microphone tips plus seven bonuses.
In fact:
What to choose depends on the venue layout, the ceiling height, the furniture, the drapes, and even the carpet.
And in general, you also want to learn how to choose a wireless microphone based on its technical aspects.
So, let’s dive in:
- 1. What’s A “Wireless Microphone”
- 2. When Do I Need A Microphone?
- 3. What “Size Audience” Is The Limit?
- 4. Are Microphones Reliable?
- 5. Practice “Speaking and Holding”
- 6. Where Is The On And Off Switch
- 7. The “Live Test”
- 8. Watch The Speakers On The Program Before You
- 9. When It’s Time For You To Be Onstage
- 10. Energize Your “Voice”
- 11. How to Handle “Questions” from the Audience
- 12. Keep It In Front Of You At All Times
- 13. How To Adjust The Proper Height
- 14. How To Adjust A “Gooseneck Attachment”
- 15 Just Practice!
- Bonus Tip #1: Practice At A Toastmasters Club
- Bonus Tip #2: Don’t Shout to Your Audience
- Bonus Tip #3: What To Wear
- Bonus Tip #4: “Avoid Things And People”
- Bonus Tip #5: Don’t Wear It To The Bathroom Room
- Bonus Tip #6: Look Like A Seasoned “Public Speaker”
- Bonus Tip # 7: Add Audiovisual Enhancements
1. What’s A “Wireless Microphone”
A “Wireless Microphone” is a handheld component the user uses to SPEAK.
It converts the sound waves into electrical signals which can then be processed and amplified so listeners can hear it.
A Wireless Microphone system consists of three main components:
A handheld microphone with a transmitter (TX) and a receiver (RX)
Here is how it works:
When the speaker talks into the Microphone.
First, the transmitter converts the voice into a radio wave frequency and then transmits it through a channel.
Secondly, the receiver decodes the radio wave frequency coming from the transmitter and changes it back into an electric signal.
Finally, the receiver provides a line-level current that travels to an amplifier that subsequently will play it through a sound system.
(Note: the mic comes with a built-in transmitter in it)
But if you have a (“hands-free”) microphone like a lavaliere or headset then, the transmitter is usually a pack that clips to clothing.
2. When Do I Need A Microphone?
Here is the truth:
It all depends on the venue, that’s it!
It also helps to know:
- The square footage of the room
- The type of furniture
- Room layout
- Carpeting or flooring type
- Ceiling height
- Sources of possible interfering noises
It’s all basic.
But, the reality says choosing wireless microphones can be confusing and at times, an art.
So, also consider all of the following elements before setting up your cordless microphone in the room.
3. What “Size Audience” Is The Limit?
There is no magic number or a silver bullet.
You don’t need a wireless microphone if the “size audience” is 20 spectators and they are around you.
However, sometimes, you do need it for only 20 people if they are far away from you.
The fact is:
It’s always better to USE a microphone.
(“even if you aren’t sure is necessary”)
Like the old saying goes – It’s better safe than sorry.
Think for a moment, if you don’t need it, then you can turn it off.
Well, if you do “need it” and don’t have it, then it is TOO LATE.
4. Are Microphones Reliable?
A wireless microphone is a safer choice, plus it’s very convenient and reliable.
It is a fact:
- Cheap corded microphones deliver low sound quality.
- Wired microphones hide the AV cords.
- Wireless microphones provide mobility
Also, remember, you may encounter a situation where a guest would like to share some crucial comments.
That’s the moment that you realize wireless technology is 100% reliable and makes our lives better.
Comfortably use your wireless microphones.
Make sure to connect it and rubbing against another surface is not an issue.
Look for the perfect place to hook it up, so the audio quality is best.
And don’t worry, wireless microphones DON’T FAIL.
5. Practice “Speaking and Holding”
Learn to transfer it from one hand to the other naturally.
It usually looks best to grip the wireless microphone with the whole hand and not with just the fingers.
Since the antenna is at the bottom of the microphone, hold it near the top.
Your hand can block the signal and make the mic cut in and out.
Relax, and remember:
“Speaking and Holding” it while moving around the room is the best.
6. Where is the On and Off Switch
Find out how the switch works.
Be also aware that some microphones also have a standby switch.
With that said, I recommend to LEARN how to use the switches even with the lights out.
Here is where it gets interesting:
Start your talk with a fully charged battery and have a spare one handy.
Knowing how to replace it in case something unexpected happens is always a plus.
7. The “Live Test”
Have an assistant walk the room to check the volume setting.
The “live test” is useful since it allows you to look for feedback spots.
These feedback spots are usually:
Under and in front of speakers.
Avoid these areas during your talk.
8. Watch The Speakers On The Program Before You
Paying attention to this is especially essential since it provides excellent clues.
How well is their wireless microphone projecting their voice in the room?
Is there something you could learn from how they use the microphone?
Are the speakers before you having mic problems?
These are questions that are good to remember before it is your turn using the mic.
9. When It’s Time For You To Be Onstage
You’ve already tested the cordless microphone.
Don’t tap on it. Don’t blow into it. Don’t say, “Is this thing on?” Or, “Can you hear me?”
Just start talking.
Preparation loves destiny; it’ll be working just fine.
Don’t you know? You’ll soon find out.
Here is a good idea:
It’s a unique idea to have an assistant that can monitor the room and watch for things that aren’t right or can provide technical assistance in any circumstance.
10. Energize Your “Voice”
Here is how it works:
Speak the same as always but with energy.
Don’t speak into the microphone – talk past it.
Let the microphone overhear your conversation.
Speaking into the microphone often causes your Ps to “pop” in the speakers.
Adjust your “voice” and immediately, you’ll sound BETTER.
11. How To Handle “Questions” From The Audience
Want it or not, a member of the audience will have “questions” during your talk.
The critical factor to remember is to go back to the body position you were before the person talked.
For example:
If you were sitting and then you started to ask questions, then you have to stand up.
Address the questions and then return to your sitting position.
That communicates through body language that the unnecessary questions need to stop, and the presentation has to continue.
There are occasions where the attendee asking a question may need a wireless microphone. Have one ready
On the other hand:
You can also encounter the situation where someone that also has a microphone tries to help to answer the questions for you.
It’s okay to include everyone since that adds value and more credibility.
(Note: that if you don’t want anyone interfering with your presentation, it’s better to make sure that all additional microphones are OFF)
12. Keep It In Front Of You At All Times
If you are using a fixed wireless mic, that is on a stand or attached to a podium.
And in case you’re going to look to the right while speaking.
Turn your head to the right; you need first to move your body to the left since figuratively there is an imaginary line to your mic.
In fact:
Imagine there is a string between your nose and the microphone.
13. How To Adjust The Proper Height
Before your introduction to the audience, have someone stablish the proper microphone height:
Also, it helps to practice adjusting the body posture ahead of time.
(“be aware of the way you are looking while delivering your talk”).
Also, remember that some stands are fragile and can break when you are in front of your audience.
Once you start speaking: “Remove the wireless microphones from the stand and engage the audience by walking around the room.”
14. How To Adjust A “Gooseneck Attachment”
Here is the deal:
Do it while talking.
That’s right!
The sound of your voice will help you by covering any squeaking noise resulting from the gooseneck.
We all know it a “gooseneck attachment” is an unexpected problem sometimes.
And nobody wants to be EMBARRASSED about dealing with it.
15. Just Practice!
Which leads me to finalize with the essential piece of advice: “Speaking with a wireless microphone needs to become a natural part of you.”
Practice makes perfection, and attention to small details gives you a competitive advantage.
And as promised here are the bonus tips:
Bonus Tip #1: You Can Practice At A Toastmasters Club
There is nothing better than having an audience of peers how can provide you great feedback about your presentations.
Toastmasters is where you can polish your skills and advance your experience handling a mic.
Additionally, professional working adults will provide all the possible challenges you’ll face when using a microphone in a real-life presentation.
Bonus Tip #2: Don’t Shout To Your Audience
Many public speakers use wireless microphones but don’t know how to select the appropriate type, and mistakenly think they don’t need a wireless microphone.
“I’m a REAL speaker. I don’t need a wireless microphone. I’ll shout my speech!”
Don’t make that MISTAKE.
The “microphone” is your friend and allows you greater flexibility in your vocal variety.
And if you are delivering an important message, then a microphone is crucial.
Vocal variety adds spice to your words, and the audience needs to hear your punch-lines.
A microphone helps you meet both needs.
Bonus Tip #3: What To Wear
When you aren’t wearing the proper CLOTHING to accommodate a clip-on power pack can be an issue.
(Note: Some straps can be used to hold the power pack in place)
Bonus Tip #4: “Avoid Things And People”
Avoid hugging someone since they can unclip your power pack.
In other words, be aware of the things you are holding since they can disconnect the cords.
Bonus Tip #5: Don’t Wear It To The Bathroom Room
Well, this one I believe I don’t have to explain too much 🙂
Just make sure to turn the microphone off when using the bathroom…
… you don’t want to regret eating nachos and drinking beer for the rest of your life.
Bonus Tip #6: Look Like A Seasoned “Public Speaker”
Place the podium behind you, so it doesn’t stay between you and your audience.
And then as you are about to finalize your talk.
Move the stand back in front of you, and place the microphone where it was before you say your final words.
You’ll look like a “public speaker” trust me.
Bonus Tip # 7: Add “Audiovisual Enhancements”
Add “audiovisual enhancements” to your presentation to keep your audience engaged throughout your performance with your mic.
The best tip for your company presentation is to synchronize a work laptop with the projector installed in the conference room and show slides using a Business Google Drive Account.
These simple audiovisual enhancements may look simple but are always overlooked
Did I Miss Anything?
Now I’d like to hear from you:
Which concepts from today’s post are you going to try first?
Or maybe I forgot to include one of your tips.
Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below right now.
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