Monday 8th Feb 2021
As the whole world adjusts to virtual communication with digital social events, meetings, and conferences, it’s now more important than ever to perfect your video persona and appear professional, likeable, and engaging.
Here are our top tips for delivering the most efficient online communication.
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Ensure a fast and reliable internet connection
There’s nothing worse than a presentation being disrupted by faulty Wi-Fi, frozen images or disjointed audio. Before you start, make sure you’re set up in an area with a decent signal. And, as a backup, have your phone close by so you can connect to a hotspot if necessary.
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Presentation is key
Whether delivering a pitch or speaking to a customer in person or virtually, your appearance matters. Depending on the formality of the meeting, select an outfit to match — if you’re in for the long haul, go for comfort as well!
As a side note, make sure you look professional from head to toe, as you can never be sure how much your audience can see…
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Set up your ideal space
Take a moment to assess your surroundings when setting up for your meeting — find a light, simple backdrop that won’t steal focus. If you’re struggling to find an appropriate setting, opt for a virtual background instead.
Although the general noises of pets, children, or street noise have become a regular feature on virtual calls, try to minimise the chances of these interruptions in a more secluded spot.
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Avoid distractions
Before you start, mute notifications from email and instant messaging platforms so your audience has your full attention throughout, and you’re not getting distracted with alerts popping up at the bottom of your screen.
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It’s all about the eye contact
It’s important to try to look at the camera — not the screen — during a video call, to feel as close to a face-to-face conversation as possible. It may feel a little unnatural at first, but it will help your audience to feel more engaged in what you’re saying.
Hopefully, we’ve provided some useful advice to help you communicate effectively and professionally online. Head to our Invoice Finance page for further top tips and advice!