Body language refers to nonverbal signals to communicate our feelings and intentions. Nonverbal cues often speak louder than words. As a virtual assistant, body language in online meetings is important to collaborate effectively with colleagues. Therefore, we decided to give you tips on how you can better your on-screen body language:
Maintain Eye Contact
Eye contact is extremely important during a conversation. It allows one to focus on the conversation, improves understanding, and builds trust. Furthermore, eye contact is a sign of being a good listener, and it shows respect toward the speaker.
It’s important to:
- Position your eyes at the same horizontal level as the camera.
- Post a note next to your webcam as a reminder to look into the camera’s lens.
- Talk to the camera, not the picture.
- Record a video while listening, talking, and looking into the camera.
- Rewatch the recording and improve where needed.
Do not:
- Look down. (It might appear that you’re not confident)
- Look up. (It might appear that you’re not interested)
- Look around. (It might appear that you’re not paying attention)
- Close your eyes during a meeting (It might be disrespectful toward your colleagues)
Facial Expressions
Facial expressions are part of how we communicate and develop impressions. The human face is extremely expressive, and therefore it signals your presence, mood, and interests during a virtual meeting.
It’s important to
- Maintain an amiable expression
- Smile confidently
- Nod at the right times
- Know when to use facial expressions
Do not:
- Frown
- Laugh at the wrong time
- Stare without any expressions
Good posture
Besides being a health benefit, good posture expresses confidence, self-assurance, competence, energy, and focus. What’s more, you appear more engaged, as well as trustworthy.
It’s important to:
- Square your shoulders back and down
- Sit up straight so your ears, shoulders and hips are aligned
- Keep your chin up and your neck straight (without feeling stiff)
- Use a good chair
- Relax
Do not:
- cross your arms
- lean on the desk
- lean back in your chair
Hand Gestures
Hand gestures are another great body language sign as it helps us learn and remember. It can also display enthusiasm by allowing us to react to what someone says in an online meeting without interrupting the conversation. Furthermore, it can put your colleagues at ease, build trust and draw others towards you.
It’s important to:
- Learn more about the different types of gestures
- Make your gestures purposeful.
- Practice in front of a mirror
- Know when to gesture
Do not:
- overuse a gesture
- use gestures without knowing the meaning behind them. (You might disrespect other cultures.)
- sit with your hands in your pockets
- confuse your colleagues by sending the wrong subtle message with your hands
Why On-Screen Body Language Counts
Even though you’re part of virtual meetings, the information you gather is still part of real-life solutions. Your body language, whether you are enthusiastic at all times or pay no attention at all, can be seen by your colleagues.
As we mentioned earlier, nonverbal cues often speak louder than words. Therefore, the body language shows a lot about an individual, and knowing how to portray yourself can lead you to great success in your workplace.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. Do you believe that on-screen body language counts? Let us know in the comment section below. Feel free to share our blog as far and wide as possible with those who want to learn more about body language signs. Click HERE if you’re interested in building an amazing career with Job Duck!
Until next time,
The Job Duck Team