How to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills for Online Meetings

Okay, so online meetings are everywhere these days. And let's be honest, being good at speaking during them is super important. Whether you're pitching a client, running a team meeting, or just trying to make your voice heard, knowing how to communicate well online is key. This is a simple guide on how to get better at it.

Why Bother with Public Speaking in Online Meetings?

Why is public speaking even important online? Good question.

• To be clear. Make sure your message gets across.
• To connect. Keep people interested, even through a screen.
• To look credible. Sound like you know what you're talking about.
• To work together. Good talks leads to good teamwork.
• For your career. Being a good speaker helps you get ahead.

Online Meetings: The Tricky Parts

Online speaking is different. Here's why:

• Tech problems. Bad internet? Mic not working? Ugh.
• Distractions. Home isn't always a quiet office.
• Hard to read people. It's tough to see faces on a screen.
• Short attention. People zone out fast online.
• No real connection. It's just harder to bond online.

How to Be Awesome at Online Public Speaking

Here's the good stuff. How to actually get better.

1. Become a Tech Wizard

Seriously, know your stuff. Before the meeting, test everything. Mic, camera, internet. Practice using the platform. You don't want to be that person.

• Test beforehand. Call a friend.
• Know the platform. Zoom? Teams? Know it.
• Quiet space. Find a spot without noise. Good light, too.
• Backup plan. Internet goes down? Have a plan B.

2. Tell a Great Story

Think about your presentation like a story. Hook them in the beginning. Make your points clear with proof. And end with something they'll remember.

• Know your goal. What do you want people to remember?
• Plan it out. Start, middle, end. Simple.
• Tell stories. People love stories.
• Be quick. Respect people's time.

3. Get People Involved

Don't just talk at people. Talk with them. Use polls, Q&A, breakout rooms. Make it a conversation.

• Polls are cool. Get quick feedback.
• Ask questions. Get people thinking.
• Use the chat. See what people are saying.
• Breakout rooms. Small group chats are great.
• Pictures and videos. Keep it interesting.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Yup, you gotta practice. Do it a few times. Time yourself. Record yourself. See what you can fix. Ask a friend for advice.

• Practice a lot. Get comfortable.
• Watch the clock. Don't go over time.
• Record yourself. It's helpful, trust me.
• Body language matters. Even online.
• Ask for help. Get some honest feedback.

5. Body Language Still Matters?

Believe it or not, yes! Even online, sit up straight. Look at the camera. Use your hands a bit. And smile! Don't slouch or look bored.

• Look at the camera. Like you're talking to them.
• Good posture. Sit up tall.
• Use your hands. But not too much.
• Smile! Be friendly.
• Watch your face. Don't frown.

6. Use Visuals Wisely

Slides, videos, pictures...they can help. But keep them simple. Don't cram too much text on a slide. Use them to show, not just tell.

• Simple slides. Easy to read.
• Show, don't tell. Use pictures!
• Don't crowd it. Give it some space.
• Same style. Keep it consistent.
• Practice with them. Know your slides.

7. Your Voice is Your Friend

Speak clearly. Not too fast, not too slow. Change your tone a little. Don't mumble. Pause for effect.

• Speak clearly. So everyone can hear.
• Change your voice. Keep it interesting.
• Say it clearly. Don't mumble.
• Speak with confidence. Project!
• Pauses are good. They add power.

8. Q&A Like a Pro

Be ready for questions. Listen closely. Take a breath before answering. Be clear and short. If you don't know, say so, and offer to find out.

• Listen carefully. Make sure you understand.
• Think before you talk. Don't rush.
• Clear and short answers. Get to the point.
• "I don't know" is okay. Just follow up.
• Be nice. Thank them for asking.

9. Listen Up!

Talking is only half of it. Listen to what people say (and how they say it). Nod, make eye contact (with the camera!), ask questions. Show you care.

• Pay attention. Really listen.
• Show you're listening. Nod, smile.
• Say it back. Make sure you get it.
• Ask more. Show you're interested.
• Be understanding. See their side.

10. Always Get Better

It's a work in progress. Ask for feedback. What did you do well? What could you fix? Learn new tricks. Keep practicing.

• Ask for feedback. After every talk.
• Be open to advice. Don't get defensive.
• Fix what you can. Work on your weaknesses.
• Learn new things. Workshops, etc.
• Keep at it. Practice makes better.

Don't Be Scared!

Lots of people get nervous speaking. Even online. Here's how to chill out:

• Relax. Breathe deep. Imagine good things.
• Be ready. The better prepared, the calmer you'll be.
• Focus on your message. Not your fear.
• See yourself succeeding. Picture it!
• Start small. Practice with friends first.
• Celebrate wins. You did it!

So, Go Be Awesome!

Speaking well online is a huge skill these days. Master the tech, tell good stories, get people involved, and practice. It takes time, but it's worth it. Good communication helps you in any job. So, put in the effort, and you'll see the results. You'll be rocking those online meetings in no time!