Why "Off the Cuff" May Be the Best Thing for Your Next Video

Well, it happened again!

A client came in the other day for a video coaching session, and I heard that familiar phrase: "Oh my gosh, I did so much better because I didn’t write anything down!"

What’s the secret behind this improvement? It wasn’t luck or a fluke—it was video coaching.

Let me break it down for you. My client showed up without any script. She had a clear sense of the topics she wanted to cover, but didn’t have anything written down. In her mind, she was probably thinking, "I’m not prepared, I’m just going off the cuff." But here’s what I’ve learned from years of coaching people on video:

We are always thinking about what we’re going to say. The difference comes when you don’t get stuck in the words.

The Trap of Over-Scripting

When you write down every single word you want to say, you tend to get stuck. You start focusing on the exact phrasing rather than how you're presenting, how you're connecting, and how you're converting that connection into trust. You end up worried about delivering the words perfectly, instead of focusing on engaging your audience.

Let’s face it—most of us aren’t trained actors. We don’t have the ability to memorize a script verbatim and then deliver it with the perfect amount of emotion. It’s just not our forte. And when you try to do that, the connection can fall flat. It lacks the authenticity and energy that truly resonates with an audience.

But you know what does resonate?

You speaking from the heart.

Talking about what you're passionate about, why you do what you do, how you do it, the process you follow, and the lessons learned from your successes and failures. That’s what connects. And when you’re able to speak about these things off the cuff, without over-relying on a script, your energy becomes contagious. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s relatable

Prepared But Not Scripted: The Best of Both Worlds

Now, let me clarify one thing: I don’t let my clients come in completely unprepared. We give them a structured video outline. This outline includes key components like:

• The opening statement (how you’re going to grab attention)
• The three main points (what you want the audience to remember)
• The call to action (what you want them to do next)

This way, they know the direction they’re heading, but they’re not tied to every single word. This balance between preparation and freedom allows them to stay focused but flexible.

The result? My client was more relaxed, engaging, and fun to watch compared to her first round of videos. I can’t wait for her to see the final result!

Want to Make a Stronger Connection On Camera?

If you, or your leaders, are struggling to connect with your audience through video, I would love to help. Whether it's video coaching or developing a video content strategy, let's make sure your message resonates and your personality shines through.

Feel free to reach out, and let’s talk about how to take your video presence to the next level.

I'm Karyl Morris.

I work with highly motivated client-facing leaders and organizations that understand the importantance a rock solid personal brand has on client attraction, confidence, credibility, and, yes...bottom line.

Our proprietary 360° Image Impact Branding framework ensures that you have consistency digitally and in person by combining the use of image, personal brand, thought leadership and video content strategiesWhen your ideal buyer (or employer) is vetting for opportunities, they're impressed when they find YOU.

Let's talk about how we can move you further...faster.