A couple of years ago, I wrote a TMC on how to read body language and better understand the person across the table during a negotiation. Since we have all been using ZOOM, TEAMS and other platforms for the last 14 or so months, I thought I would share what I have discovered about body language on video conferences.
Let’s face it. Even with a vaccine and the possible return to offices in the next six months, our use of video conferencing is not going anywhere. So, let’s look at how we can display positive leadership-type body language on these channels, be it for a conference call, attending or presenting a conference/workshop, job interview, discovery session, proposal presentation, or whatever.
Six Steps to Virtual Success
- Be natural. Show your natural friendliness, compassion, and credibility to all.
- Remember your picture (live, headshot/placeholder), or just your typed name is your first impression. Like any first impression, it counts. Make sure the first thing others see is a good headshot (not a name plate or goofy picture) before you go live on video or come “into the room” in a live video. Be ready to shine—and smile. This is your first impression!
- Avoid clothing with tight pattens as it becomes a focal point on camera. Dress comfortably but professionally for the circumstance.
- Because the brain pays more attention to negative messaging than positive, ensure you are always looking positive or others will see a bad mood, or the fear or uncertainty in you—and they will see It clearly. Make sure you are looking and appearing positive throughout the session.
- Avoid slumping. It detracts from leadership positioning. Sit or stand tall during the experience.
- You need to signal warmth and caring during meetings like a team meeting or proposal and that you have the best interests of others at heart.
- Keep your movements slow and small—no sweeping movements of hands or body.
- In real live scenarios, we talk about making eye contact with others. To replicate this, you can lean forward when someone is talking, nod in agreement, and tilt your head to “hear” someone.
- Don’t rush through points. Because so much of the typical brain functions around non-verbal cues are not available in these scenarios, make your verbal point and hesitate or wait. Let it sink in and let the audience absorb your comment before moving on to the next one. It is just at a slower and more relaxed pace.
Now, go blow them all away on your next Zoom call! Show them how leaders react and what they look like.
Please remember to stay HIMPS! (Healthy, Isolate when possible, Masked, Physically distanced, and Safe!).
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