Feeling drained and uninspired from virtual meetings working from home? It doesn’t have to be that way.

The pandemic has cemented hybrid work and virtual meetings as part of our new normal. Yet, while our lifestyles have adapted, many of us haven’t adjusted how we approach these online interactions.

How often do you find yourself bored and exhausted by the same monotonous virtual experience every time you click “Join Meeting”?

Recent research from Aalto University highlights that sleepiness during virtual meetings might stem from mental ‘underload’ — the opposite of overload — and sheer boredom.

But here’s the good news: that fatigue you feel while WFH isn’t necessarily due to disengagement with your work. It’s more likely that you’re sitting through painfully dull virtual meetings and presentations.

So, how can we change this?

By adopting a few key virtual presenting skills, we can transform the remote working experience for everyone involved.

Unfortunately, these skills aren’t widely taught or discussed, leading to a cycle of repetitive and uninspired virtual meetings — often without any awareness that there’s a better way.

Did you know that the approach to virtual presenting should be vastly different from in-person presenting?

Why?

There’s one crucial reason: It’s far harder to engage an audience in a virtual setting, where distractions are just a click away.

In an in-person setting, you can rely on reading the room — picking up on body language and behavioural cues to gauge whether your audience is engaged. But in a virtual environment, this becomes much more challenging.

When your audience can turn off their video and microphone, it’s like speaking to a live audience with their eyes closed!

Next time you participate in a virtual meeting or deliver an online presentation, try incorporating these strategies. Together, we can transform these experiences from dull and draining to dynamic and engaging.

1. Plan your content thoroughly beforehand

What is the key message you want to convey? Make sure you’re well prepared on your topic and can anticipate the questions your audience or colleagues might ask. Here are some critical points to consider when planning your content:

Purpose: What is the objective of your presentation or contribution?

Relevance: Is every part of your content directly relevant to your audience? (Hint: it should be!)

Anticipate Questions: What might your audience or peers ask, and how will you respond?

Key takeaways: What do you want your audience to remember after your presentation?

2. Use slides wisely

While slides aren’t always necessary, if you choose to use them, ensure they are:

Colourful and graphic: visual elements should always enhance your message.

Simple: Avoid text-heavy slides. Keep it clear and concise.

3. Practice makes Perfect

Set up a dry run using the same virtual platform you’ll be presenting on. Familiarise yourselves with the software and invite a few colleagues to provide feedback.

4. Utilise your webcam and check your audio

Seeing the presenter helps keep your audience engaged and interested. If you plan to use slides, consider balancing between showing your face and the slides. Ensure your video quality is good, with appropriate lighting, and your microphone is properly set up.

5. Test your internet connection

A stable internet connection is crucial. Always conduct a speed test to ensure your connection can handle the demands of a virtual presentation, especially if you’ll be using video.

6. Make eye contact with the camera

When speaking, look directly into the camera to create the illusion of eye contact with your audience. Avoid getting distracted by your video feed or other elements on your screen.

7. Maintain stage presence, even virtually

If possible, stand while presenting to project confident and clarity. If sitting, maintain good posture and use facial expressions and gestures to convey your message with energy and emotion.

8. Include interactive elements

Engage your audience by asking questions or using polls. There are numerous tools available that can help keep interactivity levels high during your presentation.

9. Be authentic

Let your personality shine through. If technical issues arise, handle them with humour and grace. Remember, it’s okay not to be perfect — what matters is how you connect with your audience.

10. Use digital tools for support

Consider using apps like Speeko which offers digital notecards and real-time feedback. This tool can help you stay on track and maintain your focus without needing to look away from the screen. It can also provide gentle reminder to manage your pace and reduce filler words, keeping your delivery smooth and professional.

Next time you host a virtual presentation or meeting, consider applying some of these techniques and encourage your colleagues to do the same. You’ll likely notice a positive boost in both energy and engagement levels!

Thank you for reading, I hope you found this article useful.

For more support with business public speaking check out these articles.

Tilly x

This article contains a link to an app that I genuinely recommend and believe to be brilliant and a worthwhile investment. If you act (i.e. make a purchase) after clicking one of the affiliate links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me to pay Empowered Public Speaking admin costs so I can continue to support you on your public speaking journey.