You're meeting new clients virtually. How can you use non-verbal cues to establish rapport?

2 Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact during a virtual meeting can be tricky, but it's essential for creating a sense of connection. To simulate eye contact in a video call, you should look directly into the camera rather than at the client's image on your screen. This may feel unnatural at first, but it gives the impression that you are looking at them directly, which can be reassuring and helps to build trust. Practice this technique to become comfortable with it, and remember to occasionally glance away to avoid staring, which can be perceived as aggressive or uncomfortable.

4 Gestures for Clarity

Gestures can help emphasize points and express enthusiasm, even in a virtual setting. Use hand movements to underline important statements or to show agreement. However, be mindful of the camera frame; keep gestures within view and ensure they are not too exaggerated, which can be distracting. Subtle nods and head tilts can also indicate understanding and empathy. These non-verbal cues complement your spoken words and add another layer of communication that can enrich the virtual meeting experience.

5 Control Your Environment

The environment visible during a virtual call contributes to the non-verbal message you send. A tidy, professional background suggests organization and competence, while a chaotic one can lead to negative assumptions about your work style. Ensure good lighting so that your face is clearly visible, avoiding harsh shadows or backlighting that can obscure your expressions. Also, minimize background noise and interruptions to maintain a professional atmosphere where non-verbal cues can be clearly seen and interpreted.

6 Dress Appropriately

Lastly, the way you dress for a virtual meeting can serve as a non-verbal cue that sets the tone for the interaction. Dressing professionally, even if only from the waist up, shows respect for the client and the meeting. It indicates that you take the engagement seriously and can foster a similar professional mindset in clients. While business attire may vary depending on your industry, erring on the side of formality is usually a safe bet for making a good first impression.