How to Show up in a Virtual World

Now that you’ve been connecting with your team more through the computer than face-to-face, you might be beginning to realize there’s a lot that can be lost between screens. 

It’s hard work to create energy and engagement from behind a computer. We lose something special when we aren’t physically together. To make up for this, you must be intentional about your virtual presence – even more to the point, you’ve got to create one.  

Creating your virtual presence needs to be taken as seriously as your at-work image.

There are still way too many folks out there that don’t realize their virtual presence is their personal brand. When you show up to a virtual call with your camera turned off it’s like showing up to a staff meeting with a bag over your head.   

It makes people wonder what you’re doing that you can’t show your face. While we may not be able to work in the same location, we still need to be mindful of the fact that relationships matter; and relationships that work are built on trust. Furthermore, a blank screen just seems screams “I’m not listening.” 

Are you one those people who sees the world as a stage? Leverage that energy and enthusiasm by encouraging others to join in who aren’t so vocal.

Are you one of those people who doesn’t like to feel like you are fighting for airtime? Challenge yourself to look for opportunities to contribute and speak up early. If you are on a video call, go old-school, and raise your hand. Make good use of the chat feature.

Here are some other sure-fire tips for cultivating and showcasing your professional personality while connecting with others as you work remotely.

For starters, familiarize yourself with whatever video platform you are using. They all have unique features that can make the conversation more engaging and interesting. (I’ve heard YouTube has great videos on just about everything). 

All of these conferencing tools have a place to create your profile. Set yours up. Use a presentable picture. Let me repeat that for those who think your picture is presentable. If you aren’t sure, use something else. For fun, create an avatar. I made mine here: https://avatarmaker.com/  

Also, look at how your name is showing up.  Does it say cindyiphone?  Change it to say your name. I’ve seen some people even put what city they are in; e.g. Cindy Lynch  – Atlanta.

“Camera ready” is part of the new normal business expectation. Yes, we are more relaxed, but pull yourself together! While you may not need to be suited up with full hair and make-up, be presentable enough to have your camera on. A little blush and lip gloss goes a long way. A haircut and shave can make you look like a million bucks even if you are wearing those 10-year-old basketball shorts. 

Now, let’s talk about that background. Don’t be embarrassed if your office space is in the garage or the kitchen table. Just remember no one wants to see a kitchen full of dirty dishes or inappropriate posters on the wall. If you’re not comfortable with your background, then by all means download a virtual one. Sitting outside always makes for a great background.

What you show on-screen also allows you to find similarities with your coworkers.  For example, if you notice a Star Wars poster on someone’s wall and you’re a huge fan, you can message them about it and strike up a conversation. I have a mandolin on my wall, and I get a lot of asks about it.

While you are at it, check that camera angle. No one wants to look up your nose or feel like they are viewing you from a corner spycam. Your face should be in the middle of the screen. If your computer doesn’t have a good camera, buy one. It’s better than trying to use your phone. But, if you are using your smartphone, be mindful of the angle. Ceiling shots are the worst. I bet you can think of a few others.

There is a reason why movie producers say: Lights! Camera! Action!  Good lighting cannot be underrated. You can buy a lamp to put behind your computer that can add additional lighting. When I realized how washed out and sallow I looked on camera I was mortified. I did a little research and found out if I swapped my bulbs for bright whites it made a difference. I looked 10 years younger, instantly. Natural light is always a great option.  

Whenever you are talking, direct eye contact is still essential for connecting with others. In a video conference, this means looking directly into the video camera, not at the faces of your coworkers. It probably won’t feel natural or comfortable at first, but you’ll get used to it.

Because it’s harder to pick up social cues through a screen, be mindful of how long and how often you speak or if you interrupt other people.  I hold a smooth rock during calls to remind me not to talk so much.

If you’re in listening mode for a meeting, what you’re doing is just as important. In a typical in-person meeting, you are mindful of your presence. But in a video conference where you’re muted, it’s easy to forget people can still see you. You may be tempted to do a little Amazon shopping or take your next move with “Words with Friends.”  Again, you’re at work, and you need to be fully present.  While you won’t always need to contribute in a meeting, remember that you’re always “on camera.” A good rule of thumb is to behave the same way you would in an in-person meeting.

When you aren’t talking by all means, mute yourself.  Background noise can be extremely distracting and ever so annoying.  

Don’t forget: the chat feature is your friend. When you refer to an article or shared document, link to it in the chat. If you run the meeting, put a link to the agenda. When others are speaking, respond with support or questions. The chat window is a unique opportunity in virtual meetings to elevate your presence, add dimensions to your ideas, and demonstrate that you’re fully present.

Oh, and remember to use the bathroom before a call to prevent any embarrassing situations.

Now, these are all just tips for video conferencing. Look for my next articles on how the phone, email, and chat apps impact your brand and how to lead great virtual meetings.