Zoom Crashed. Did Your Speaking Business Crash With It?

On April 16, 2025, Zoom experienced a massive outage that disrupted virtual meetings, webinars, and online events across the country. Caused by a GoDaddy error affecting the zoom.us domain, the platform was down for nearly two hours—leaving countless speakers mid-sentence, scrambling to recover.

If you're a coach, speaker, or facilitator who relies on Zoom to deliver transformational content, this outage wasn’t just frustrating—it was a warning.

🎤 As a Speaker, You Are the Show—So Be Ready for Anything

Whether you're speaking on stages or screens, your delivery depends on reliable tech. A glitch like this reminds us that being a professional speaker isn’t just about your message—it’s about your preparedness.

Here are four powerful speaker coaching tips to help you future-proof your next virtual presentation:

1. Always Have a Zoom Backup Plan

Zoom isn't invincible. Your speaking business shouldn't be either. Set up alternative platforms like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or StreamYard. Keep those links ready to go and include them in a pre-event contingency email.

Pro Tip for Speakers:
Create a “Tech Backup” doc with all login links, contact info, and a Plan B for every event you host. Your professionalism will shine—even if Zoom doesn’t.

2. Communicate Fast, Stay Visible, Stay Credible

When things go wrong, how you respond builds (or breaks) trust. Immediately notify attendees through email, text, or social media. Let them know you're on it and have a plan. Even a simple "Hang tight—we’re switching platforms!" shows leadership.

Speaker Coaching Tip:
Prepare email templates in advance for tech issues. Copy, paste, send. No panicking necessary.

3. Record Locally—Save the Day Later

Many speakers rely on Zoom’s cloud recording, but if the platform is down, so is your content. Use third-party recording software or record locally whenever possible, especially for signature talks or paid virtual trainings.

Smart move:
Use OBS Studio, QuickTime, or even Loom to record locally during every presentation. If something crashes, you’ve still got the goods.

4. Add Tech Prep to Your Speaker Checklist

If your current event prep list is all “slides, outfit, story arc,” it’s time to level up. Add a Virtual Tech Checklist to every gig:

• Platform tested ✔️

• Backup link created ✔️

• Contact info for host/client ✔️

• Pre-written tech fail messages ✔️

Speaker Coaching Isn’t Just About the Mic—It’s About the Mindset

Tech fails. Audiences wait. Speakers adapt. Whether you’re running your own virtual events or speaking on someone else’s stage, being prepared for Zoom outages and other glitches makes you look like a total pro.

If you're a coach or entrepreneur ready to build a high-impact speaking career without tech panic, you're in the right place. My speaker coaching programs help you craft signature presentations, grow your audience, and command the (virtual or in-person) stage with confidence.

👉 Want support building your speaker systems like a pro?
Let’s talk. I’ll help you create your Plan A, B, and C—so nothing stops your message from reaching the world.

Need more tips? Read next:
📌 ADHD-Friendly Stage Fright Tips
📌 How to Stop Quitting
📌 How to Get More Speaking Gigs