4 Critical Steps to Increase Influence During Virtual Conversations
Virtual isn't going away. Neither is your need to influence. Research shows that meetings are 40% more productive when video is included Mixnetworks (Aragon Research). But most people show up to virtual conversations like it's a backup plan, not the main event. That's a mistake that's costing you influence. Here are four critical steps to command attention virtually:
Optimize Your Visual Presence
Position your camera at eye level. Look directly into the lens when you speak. Frame yourself properly—chest up, not too close, not too far. Eliminate distracting backgrounds. Your visual presence sends a message before you say a word. Control it.
Use Your Voice Strategically
Virtual conversations strip away body language cues. Your voice becomes even more critical. Vary your tone. Pause for emphasis. Eliminate filler words. Speak with energy and intention. Monotone voices disappear in virtual settings. Dynamic voices command attention.
Minimize Distractions Ruthlessly
Close every tab except what you need for the conversation. Silence notifications. Put your phone out of reach. When you're distracted, everyone knows. And when they know you're distracted, you lose credibility and influence. Full presence isn't optional—it's everything.
Engage Actively
Don't just sit there. Nod. Lean in. React visibly to what others say. Ask questions. Contribute meaningfully. Virtual conversations die when participants disappear into silence. Your engagement—or lack of it—is visible to everyone on the call.
Virtual conversations aren't inferior to in-person meetings. They're just different. And different requires you to adapt. Master your visual presence. Command attention with your voice. Eliminate distractions. Engage actively. Do this consistently, and you'll influence just as powerfully virtually as you do in person.
