We’re a few years removed from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the remote technology that kept business going has become both a blessing and a curse.
The blessing is twofold. In addition to keeping the wheels of business turning and connecting global teams, virtual platforms allow us to see one another when we can’t be together with our families.
But virtual calls are so convenient that the temptation is to set the bar low for presentations—so much so that we don’t give superior virtual presentations when needed.
With 80% of all presentations given virtually, some teams meet and present as if just hanging out. Even when the stakes are high, we show up with less intensity and commitment.
What’s the result? Lower closing ratios, lackluster presentations, and unproductive meetings.
We Still Prefer Face-to-Face
Our findings align with broader industry research, which shows a strong preference by business people for in-person presentations. Speaking to small virtual boxes with non-verbal feedback makes it harder to connect.
In my 25 years as a speaker, coach, and facilitator, I can confirm that transformation in learning and development does not happen via technology. It happens face-to-face.
Despite technological advancements, the human touch remains irreplaceable for building influence and trust. Organizations that continue to prioritize communication will opt for face-to-face communication whenever possible. It’s worth the cost of a plane ticket when the stakes are high.
Virtual Presentations Require Soft Skills
The best virtual presentations combine technological proficiency with soft skills. Without maintaining our soft skills, we regress to mediocre slide readers. We treat most presentations as background noise while we do other work.
At Interact Studio, we help individuals and teams craft and deliver effective virtual presentations while honing their soft skills, such as facial expressions, posture, gestures, vocal variety, and audience interaction.
Tips for Stellar Virtual Presentations
We offer the following recommendations for improving virtual presentations:
- Refresh your command post. If you’ve gotten lax with your space, reevaluate. Rearrange your setup so that your camera is at eye level. Make a small investment in a new chair or standing desk.
- Practice Vocal Presence. Vocal energy is just as crucial on virtual calls as in person. Avoid going monotone. You may not need to “bring it” for every virtual call, but tell the team to kick it up when the stakes are high.
- Keep your video on. Be generous with your video. Since you can see everyone’s name tag, use first names to personalize the conversation. Being off-camera should be the exception, not a part of your virtual reputation.
- Glance at the camera. It matters. Find ways to cast your eyes toward the camera regularly. Arrange the thumbnails of teammates at the top of your screen. Explore the purchase of a webcam mounted in a position to make eye contact simple.
- Think “Television for Content.” How can you tap into the team’s creativity to use video, music, themes, and bold and beautiful slides? Craft compelling stories and use concise, varied content to maintain interest.
- Use all the interactive tools. If you haven’t done so, master using breakout rooms, whiteboards, chat, polls, and models. They all help with engagement.
- Collaborate and engage. The more of a two-way conversation you can make your presentation, the better. Guard against multitasking by involving your audience. If the group is small enough, go around to each person and ask for a response or an idea. Ask attendees to come prepared with an exciting update.
Conclusion
The future of work is undeniably hybrid. Great communicators will find a way to take advantage of both in-person and virtual opportunities. Face-to-face communication is the premium one, but we can still impress and engage a virtual audience with clarity of message, brevity, story, engagement tools, and soft skills.
If you are looking to elevate your virtual presentation skills, Interact Studio has classes that will help you learn how to connect with authenticity and make an impact virtually.
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