Something super practical today and it requires just a very small change… (This is part of my summer series where each post contains my favourite tip or idea for one aspect of your professional life.)
Let’s face it, messages can get lost on video calls and half the time you’re wondering if the others are even paying attention.
When we’re meeting online, distractions are everywhere: Zoom chat, Slack notifications, Emails, Calendar reminders, WhatsApp pinging in the background…
It’s much harder for people to ‘get away with’ doing other tasks during an in-person meeting.
So how can you create a better connection to your audience online?
Look directly at the camera.
Simple, right? Do you do it, though?
We tend to look at the screen in front of us, either at the faces of our peers or our own little square.
The magic is in looking at your camera. When you do, you’re looking straight at your audience and they will immediately notice a difference.
You’re no longer talking at them, you’re talking TO them.
You’re no longer presenting a bunch of slides, you’re addressing people directly.
Eye contact is important and when you’re working through virtual tools, there’s only so much you can do to bridge the physical distance between people.
Look at the camera as much as you can, speak to that camera, make it your best friend. It’s one way you can better connect during remote meetings.
Have a great week!
Eva
P.S.: Let me help you create more awesome moments in your work day. I am putting together a special Career Boost workshop that will launch this month. If you want to find out more, email me “Career Boost” and you’ll be the first to hear about it before it goes public.