by Gilda Bonanno LLC
Virtual communication has become an essential part of how we work and lead. Yet, many professionals still make small mistakes that can undermine their credibility and connection.
The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can ensure your virtual presence is clear, engaging, and effective.
Set the Stage
Start with the basics. Position your camera at eye level so you can make direct eye contact with your audience. Invest in a good microphone and speakers. Audiences will forgive imperfect video, but poor audio quickly loses their attention. Bandwidth also matters, so use the strongest network available in your space.
Your background sets the tone as well. If you don’t have a professional setting, use a clean wall, or a blurred background.
Poor lighting is another common mistake. The light should be placed behind the camera and focused on your face. This helps your audience see your expressions and stay connected to you.
Show Up Professionally
It may sound obvious, but grooming and attire matter virtually just as much as in person. Treat every virtual meeting as a professional appearance.
And always be prepared for when things go wrong, whether that’s a technology glitch, a dropped call, or an unexpected interruption.
Be Engaging in the Box
One challenge of virtual is energy. On camera, you need to bring more energy than you would in person because it has to travel through the screen to reach your audience. Practice being dynamic and animated, even when you can’t see participants’ faces.
Your voice is equally critical. Keep it clear, energized, and varied in tone—avoid speaking in a monotone that can bore listeners and make it easy for them to disengage. Record yourself or ask for feedback to ensure your delivery works well online.
Finally, remember to monitor your facial expressions, especially when listening or thinking. Neutral or positive expressions show engagement and prevent “resting thinking face” from sending the wrong signal.
Virtual presentation skills aren’t about perfection - they’re about allowing you to be your best self. With practice, preparation, and polish, you can turn your virtual presence into a powerful tool for connection, collaboration, and impact.
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© Gilda Bonanno LLC - Gilda Bonanno serves as a trusted advisor to executives and entrepreneurs to transform their communication, presentation and leadership skills. She has worked with companies on 4 continents, from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome. The instructional videos on her YouTube channel have received over 1.5 million views and her e-newsletter has reached subscribers in over 45 countries since 2008. For other articles or to receive Gilda's e-newsletter, visit www.gildabonanno.com