Since the global pandemic started, there’s been a sharp uptick in remote work, meaning nearly all of our meetings occur over Zoom. This can make the hard task of communication even harder, and vital to improve your Zoom communication skills. You have to make sure your technology is working for you, that your voice is optimised, and that your non-verbal communication is adapted for the virtual setting.

Here are some simple tips…

  • Project confidence vocally – you want to sound authoritative and full. Take deep breaths supported from your stomach and diaphragm.
  • Engage with vocal variety – variety in the tone and pitch of your voice helps to keep your audience engaged in what you’re saying. Your audience might get bored if your voice is monotone or flat, especially when they have other distractions such as emails and social media at their fingertips.
  • Articulate and enunciate – you want your audience to hear every word your saying, and this can be trickier online.
  • Pause frequently – people need time to process what you’re saying, especially in virtual communication.

Adapting non-verbal communication online

It’s a mistake to think that non-verbal communication doesn’t matter when you’re seated on a virtual meeting. Adapt these communication tools for this format:

  • Maintain eye contact – this is challenging virtually. Try to look at your laptop’s camera rather than down at your notes. This gives the appearance of eye contact.
  • Sit up straight or stand – your posture helps you project physically and vocally, as the muscles associated with breathing and speaking are engaged.
  • Smile – of course, give your audience a smile. People will both see and hear your enthusiasm and warmth.

When you communicate effectively, you save time on the “corrective communication” needed to explain what you actually mean. Employ these virtual communication tips to make sure you’re understood during your next Zoom meeting.

Hopefully you found this article useful in improving your Zoom communication skills!