You’ve probably heard the expression “You never get a second chance to make a great first impression.” According to an article in Association for Psychological Science, first impressions can happen in as little as a tenth of a second! So, how do you make a great first impression virtually? It’s easier than you think!

Being well-prepared is critical in today’s virtual world

Follow these suggestions on how to make a great first impression, and you will ease your jitters and appear more confident, too!

Technology tips

• Check the lighting in your office. If possible, face a window and never sit with a window in back of you. Combine natural and artificial light from a desk and/or overhead lamp for best results. With any lighting choices, look at the light bulb’s CRI, or color-rendering index. For the most natural looking light, make sure the CRI is as close to 100 as possible.
• Always test your webcam placement and audio connection before your virtual meeting begins. Ideally, your head position will be in the top third of your monitor display. Also, audio checks are a must. Changes to the platform, system updates, or a host of other reasons can cause your audio controls to shift.
• Use a microphone with noise reduction (or your cell phone earbuds) to limit common background noises such as street noise, lawn mowers, barking dogs, and noisy children.
• Minimize distractions by placing your mobile device(s) on airplane mode. Close any other applications other than the meeting platform.

Watch your body language

• Look directly at the camera to engage your participants as you speak. Your participants will feel you’re looking directly at them.
• Smile, sit up straight, and be sincerely interested in your topic and your participants.
• Keep your body and your feet still. Fidgeting during a meeting screams “I’m not interested!” and damages your connection with your participants.
• Avoid crossing your arms and keep your hands either to your side or in your lap.
• Dress professionally. While no one will see your fuzzy slippers, you will unconsciously project a more business-like attitude when you dress as you would for a face-to-face setting.

Practice makes perfect

• Practice your meeting in advance and record the session. Review the recording and make an honest assessment to how you appear on camera. Note what made you look confident. Did anything make you look tentative or uncertain?
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early for audio-only meetings. Plan on arriving 20-30 minutes early for video conferencing meetings on platforms such as Zoom,
• Make sure your background and desk are clear of clutter and distractions. This enhances your online presence.

If you want to make a great first impression on your next meeting, be fully prepared. Check your technology tools ahead of time, arrive early, stay focused on engaging with your participants, and let your confidence shine!