How To Connect With Your Audience While Presenting Virtually

Good presenters know how to connect with their audience — but even for the best presenter, this can be really challenging in a virtual setting.

To start, you have to be engaging and active. Pay attention to the inflection of your voice, the speed of your speech, and the energy in your tone. Be sure to capture your audience not only by your words but also by how they are projected.

Like you would in a more tangible session, be sure to make “eye contact” with your participants. This can be done by looking directly into the camera as often as possible. Sure, it can be hard to remember, especially if you have to look elsewhere on your screen to see the participants.

Here's what I recommend: rearrange your screen so that the window with your audience is close to the camera. This way you can simultaneously make eye contact with them without missing any of their responses.

Here's another tip that is often ignored: pay attention to the angle of the camera. You want to be sure that your face is at a comfortable level for others to see you...you wouldn't want them staring up your nostrils!

Don't forget to smile! A warm, engaging smile, with the occasional laugh will ensure that you hold their attention. Remember, the goal is to spark a connection. If you're in a more laxed environment, share a bit of what's going on in your surroundings by flipping your camera. If it's a more formal setting, open the meeting by sharing a personal story or asking them to share where they are calling from.

Connection is everything when it comes to presenting both in-person and virtually. Make that your main goal and you'll be surprised at how easier presenting virtually will become.

I hope this helps :)

xoxo,
Darra