In March of 2020, everything changed in the blink of an eye. Cozy offices, bustling with familiar faces, suddenly felt like a distant memory. The simple joy of chatting with colleagues by the water cooler, sharing lunch breaks, or presenting ideas in person vanished overnight. For many, Friday, March 13th marked the end of business as usual.  We were swiftly sent home with the promise of a mere two-week hiatus. It lasted much, MUCH longer.

As we adapted to this new reality, a common sentiment echoed among my clients, peers, and professional circles: “I miss the office. I hate doing meetings on camera.  It’s just not the same.” The struggle to maintain connection and camaraderie through screens was real. Everyone longed for the familiarity of office life. I would often hear “I can’t wait to go back.”

When I heard these laments, I gently reminded them of an undeniable truth: There is no going back. The camera is never going away, it is here to stay. COVID-19 merely accelerated a shift that was already underway. And today the new hybrid world is upon us.

It’s never too late to get better at embracing the camera, mastering the art of connecting virtually, and improving your executive presence.  I am here to help you do just that.

Embracing the Foundations of Executive Presence on Video

Let us begin with the fundamentals.  These foundational elements serve as pillars upon which a strong virtual presence is built.  At the heart of a memorable virtual camera presence are three core abilities you must master: captivate visually, command vocally, and engage verbally. Let us dig a little deeper into each!

Visually Striking: Your visual presence on camera begins with setting the stage. Pay attention to your background, attire, and posture. A clutter-free backdrop, professional attire, and impeccable posture convey professionalism and command attention. Moreover, lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting your features and minimizing distractions, ensuring that you remain the focal point of the screen.

Vocal Confidence: Your voice is a powerful tool for conveying authority and engagement in virtual meetings. Projecting your voice clearly and confidently is essential for making an impact. Vary your pitch, speak at a moderate pace, and minimize filler words to maintain a professional tone that commands attention and conveys confidence.

Verbally Impactful: Crafting your message with clarity and engagement is key to keeping your audience captivated. Tailor your communication to the needs of your audience, using strong verbs and avoiding jargon. Structure your thoughts logically and leverage strategic pauses to emphasize key points effectively. In the virtual realm, where attention spans are shorter, keeping your message focused and impactful is crucial.

Elevating Your Influence on Zoom/Teams and Beyond

To enhance your executive presence on specific platforms like Teams and Zoom, attention to technical details is paramount. Consider the following tips:

• Optimize Camera Position: Position your camera at eye level to maintain a natural line of sight and ensure that you’re centered in the frame. This creates a more engaging and professional appearance.
• Dress Professionally: Treat virtual meetings with the same level of professionalism as in-person interactions. Dress in attire that reflects your role, your personal brand, and the expectations of the meeting.
• Choose a Suitable Background: Select a clean and uncluttered backdrop that aligns with your personal brand or the nature of the meeting. Avoid distractions and ensure that your background enhances rather than detracts from your presence.
• Invest in Quality Equipment: Consider investing in a good-quality microphone and webcam to ensure clear audio and video transmission. A reliable internet connection is also essential to prevent disruptions during virtual meetings.

Demonstrating Executive Presence in Virtual Meetings

In virtual meetings, executive presence is about more than just looking the part—it’s about leading with authority and inspiring your audience. Consider the following strategies:

• Body/Voice Confidence: Even when confined to a small square on a screen, your body language and voice can convey confidence and authority. Maintain good posture, use open gestures, and speak with clarity and conviction to establish your leadership presence.
• Make Eye Contact: While it may feel unnatural to look into a camera lens, making eye contact with your audience fosters a sense of connection and engagement. Focus on the camera rather than your own image to create a more authentic connection with your audience.
• Engage Your Audience: Actively involve your audience by asking questions, soliciting feedback, and encouraging participation. Use strategic pauses to allow for reflection and response, keeping your audience engaged and invested in the conversation.

Elevating Your Influence with Virtual Leadership Skills

In addition to projecting executive presence in virtual meetings, effective virtual leadership requires agility, trust-building, and inclusivity. Consider the following strategies:

• Use Decision-Making Tools: Embrace online collaboration tools to facilitate decision-making in virtual teams. Encourage open discussions and healthy debate to ensure that diverse perspectives are heard and considered.
• Plan Intentional Meetups: Building trust in virtual teams requires intentional effort. Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to connect with team members personally, and leverage video conferencing to create a sense of presence and connection.
• Promote Inclusivity: Be mindful of inclusivity in virtual meetings by actively soliciting input from all team members, regardless of their location or background. Utilize virtual tools like polls and breakout rooms to encourage participation and ensure that everyone has a voice.

Practical Exercises and Tips for Immediate Improvement

Incorporating small, daily habits and exercises into your routine can significantly impact how you project yourself online. Consider the following practical exercises for immediate improvement:

• Posture Exercises: Incorporate posture exercises into your daily routine to improve your on-camera presence and convey confidence.
• Vocal Warm-Ups: Practice vocal warm-up exercises, such as gentle humming or tongue twisters, to enhance your voice projection and articulation.
• Active Listening Skills: Cultivate active listening skills by practicing attentiveness and engagement during virtual meetings. By demonstrating genuine interest and respect for your audience, you can build trust and rapport in virtual interactions.

Common Pitfalls to Sidestep in Virtual Meetings

Even the most prepared leaders can fall victim to common pitfalls in virtual meetings. By staying mindful of these pitfalls, you can avoid potential missteps and project a polished and professional image. Consider the following common pitfalls and strategies for sidestepping them:

• Distracted Multitasking: Avoid multitasking during virtual meetings, as divided attention can signal disrespect and disengagement. Close unnecessary browser tabs and silence your computers notifications to stay focused on the meeting.
• Disengaged Body Language: This may sound dated, but it is so true. Keep your back straight and connect with the camera by looking directly into it. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and engaged. Slouching or constantly looking away can give off the wrong vibe.
• Unprofessional Backgrounds: Select a backdrop that radiates professionalism and mirrors your personal brand. Eliminate any unnecessary elements to maintain your audience’s focus on you, ensuring your environment complements your presence instead of diverting attention away from it.

Checklist for High-Stakes Meetings

Preparing for high-stakes virtual meetings requires thorough planning and attention to detail. Consider the following checklist to ensure that you project confidence and command attention:

• Technology Check: Test your internet connection, microphone, and camera well beforehand to avoid technical difficulties during the meeting.
• Review Talking Points: Review your key points and rehearse your delivery to ensure clarity and coherence.
• Mental Rehearsal: Visualize yourself delivering a confident and impactful presentation to boost your confidence and composure during the meeting.

Take the Next Step

Having an executive presence on camera is essential in today’s digital age, and there are several ways to build and enhance it. If you’re ready to take your virtual presence to the next level, consider taking actionable steps such as setting up a complimentary 30-Minute “Camera Confidence Makeover Session” with me. You can also get more personalized coaching by booking a consultation here.

By investing in your development and prioritizing continuous growth, you can solidify your executive presence and lead with confidence and impact in the digital world. How you come across has a lot to do with how far you go.