Virtual meetings are a great way to continue to connect with colleagues and clients while staying safe and practicing social distancing. However, the demands of body language and non-verbal communication change drastically from in-person to virtual communication. Here are a few tips to help you adapt your body language to project confidence and a strong professional presence on your next video call:
- Make Eye Contact: In virtual communication, “eye contact” is achieved by looking directly into your camera, not at your audience. Looking at your screen will make you appear as though you are looking down, making your listener feel disconnected. While it may be necessary to look at your screen intermittently, try to focus your gaze on your camera the majority of the time.
- Posture: Remember, people can still see you! Maintain a strong, confident posture throughout any virtual meeting or presentation, no matter how long the meeting continues. Slouching will make you appear sloppy, unprofessional, and disinterested. It will even impact your voice! Sit up straight, and lean slightly forward towards the camera to show that you are engaged in the conversation.
- Avoid Closed-Off Positions: Many people fall into a passive, closed-off position when participating in video calls, leaning back in their chair and crossing their arms. Since it’s harder to read the nuances of your facial expression, this can be mistaken for hostility or aggression in a video call. Keep your body language open, with your hands on the desk in front of your or on your lap. Use them when appropriate!
- Watch Your Facial Expressions: When you’re not physically in the room with another person, many people fall into a flat, fixed facial expression that can appear bored or angry. Try to maintain the natural give and take of non-verbal communication, smiling and nodding when listening, and using expressive facial expressions when you speak. This will show that you are engaged in the meeting.
If you are looking to polish your communication skills be sure to pick up a free copy of my e-book “Communicate with Clarity and Confidence!” by subscribing to our newsletter community on our website. For additional information call us at 212-308-7725 or send us an e-mail at jayne@corporatespeechsolutions.com to learn more. I’d be more than happy to answer any questions you might have!
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