Throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic of 2020, I’ve had many questions about how to make a good impression online.
“Can you explain how to engage effectively in online meetings when you are only a thumb size image?” was a favourite expression of this, asked by Carolyn Zimba, a member of a business group to which I belong.
I believe effective engagement starts with presence, long before you speak. Everyone has a presence; some just have never let their light shine. So, let me start by saying that the same rules apply for on and offline; there are just a few adjustments.
This video gives an overview of the 5 area I cover in a two-hour workshop, “5 Simple Steps to a more Professional Online Presence” which can be booked by organisations or individuals.
There is a video here that covers posture, which is the first important step once you’re in the meeting. Think about how this translates to a seated posture. Here are a few pointers:
🪑 Bum in the corner of a good chair that supports your posture
👀 Eyes in the top third to quarter of the screen
👂 Listen and be ready to respond; your attention will show
🎥 Have your camera on if that has been requested in the ground rules set by the Meeting Host.
When you then speak from powerful, practiced presence, your voice will carry that through. Enjoy, and do get in touch if you have any questions or you want to know about other aspects of showing up professionally or more about online or offline #presence.