How to Zoom Like a Pro Virtual Magician

If you want to be a virtuoso of the virtual world, you need to know how to work a room... even if that room is online. Here are some tips on how to make your next Zoom call sizzle from a professional virtual magician!

1. Make a Good First Impression like a virtual magician

This one is key whether you're in person or online. When you join a Zoom call, be sure to have a pleasant expression and good posture. Greet everyone in the room with a smile and make eye contact with the camera, not the screen. This might feel awkward at first, but it will help you engage with your audience and come across as more likable and trustworthy.

2. Look the Part as a virtual magician

Since people will only be seeing your upper body on Zoom, it's important to dress the part. Wear clothes that are clean, well-fitting, and appropriate for the occasion. And don't forget about accessories! A few well-chosen pieces can really make your outfit pop. Just be careful not to go overboard—you don't want to distract from what you're saying with too much bling.

3. Use Your Words like virtual magician

When you're speaking on Zoom, use clear and concise language. Avoid using filler words like "um" or "like," which can make you sound insecure or unprepared. Instead, take a deep breath and pause for a beat before speaking. This will help you collect your thoughts and come across as more confident and polished.

4. Know Your Audience like you would for a virtual magic show

As with any type of communication, it's important to know your audience when you're giving a Zoom presentation. Tailor your language and examples to their needs and interests so that they can better connect with what you're saying. And if you're not sure what those needs and interests are, simply ask! A little bit of research ahead of time can go a long way in making sure your message hits the mark.

5. Keep It Engaging like a virtual magic show

It can be easy to tune out when you're listening to someone speak on Zoom (or any other video call), so it's important to keep your audience engaged by varying your tone, volume, and rate of speech throughout your presentation. Virtual magicians do this! You should also use facial expressions and gestures to emphasize key points—just remember not to overdo it so that you don't come across as unnatural or insincere. Finally, break up blocks of text with visuals whenever possible so that people have something else to look at besides your face on their screen.

By following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a pro at virtual communication! Just remember that practice makes perfect—the more Zoom calls you give, the better you'll get at nailing them every time.