With remote work and digital collaboration becoming the norm, knowing how to lead a clear, confident video conference has become just as critical as in-person communication skills. But for many, all that high-definition time on screen just provides a new stage for an old fear.
Mention public speaking and most people will tell you how much it terrifies them. In fact, the fear is so real, there’s an actual term for it—glossophobia! Yet strong communication and presentation skills are essential for business leaders across industries and functions. Speaking opportunities—whether at an industry event or during a client video conference—help you increase visibility, build credibility, and strengthen your professional brand.
From Casual Chat to Confident Video Conferencing
So what’s a nervous-about-public-speaking professional to do? Start virtually. The truth is, you probably already spend a good part of your week presenting ideas over digital huddles, whether it's a quick update, explaining a concept, or chatting through next steps. While those casual conversations might not feel like a "presentation," you are effectively using the medium to share your expertise. The goal now is to bridge that feeling of ease from a casual conversation to a more formal video conference or high-stakes client call.
Virtual Conferencing Tips: How the Screen Helps
Virtual presenting isn’t necessarily easier, but it does ease some of the pressures of in-person public speaking. In a video conference, you don’t have to stand on a stage or face a large live audience. The screen provides distance, reduces the focus on "performance," and allows you to control your surroundings—lighting, background, and even potential distractions.
Virtual presenting isn’t necessarily easier, but it does ease some of the pressures of in-person public speaking. In a video conference, you don’t have to stand on a stage or face a large live audience. The screen provides distance and reduces the focus on performance. Plus, you can control your surroundings—lighting, background, and even your outfit.
The following video conferencing tips will help you speak with confidence and lead more engaging virtual presentations every time.
Before the Video Conference: Tips
Preparation is the foundation of every effective video conference or virtual presentation. It’s about planning your message, setting up your technology, and preparing yourself mentally.
1. Rehearse your presentation
The secret to confident public speaking is rehearsal—especially in a video conference format. Know your material well enough that you don’t need to rely on your slides. Practice speaking out loud and on camera. Pay attention not only to your words but to your facial expressions, gestures, and tone. Great virtual speakers project energy through the screen.
2. Test your tech early
Reduce stress by checking your setup ahead of time.
- Choose a space with strong lighting and minimal background noise.
- Make sure your camera is at eye level and your background looks professional.
- Test your internet connection, microphone, and headphones (if applicable).
- Familiarize yourself with the video conferencing platform you’ll use—whether that’s Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams—so you know how to share your screen, manage participants, and troubleshoot quickly.
- Log in at least 15 minutes early to avoid last-minute issues.
During the Video Conference: Tips
When the meeting starts, your job shifts from preparation to connection. These virtual conferencing tips will help you hold attention and make your message memorable.
3. Connect with your audience
Start strong. Greet attendees warmly and use the first few minutes to draw them in—through a story, question, or light humor. The goal is to make your virtual huddle feel like a genuine conversation, not another routine call.
4. Bring more energy than feels natural
Remote audiences experience you through a screen, so a little extra enthusiasm helps you stand out. Speak with energy, vary your tone, and use your hands to emphasize points. You’ll combat “Zoom fatigue” and keep people engaged throughout the session.
5. Maintain virtual eye contact
In video conferencing, “eye contact” means looking directly into the camera—not at your own image. This small adjustment makes a big difference in helping your audience feel connected to you.
6. Keep it interactive
The best video conference presentations invite participation. Use polls, chat prompts, or short Q&A breaks to keep people engaged. You might even add a short quiz or icebreaker to lighten the mood and make your session more dynamic.
7. Stay focused
Keep your presentation concise and on topic. Audiences retain more when you focus on key takeaways rather than overloading them with detail. If there’s additional information to share, include it in your follow-up materials.
8. Enjoy the experience
Audiences respond to authenticity. When you’re relaxed and enjoying yourself, they are too. Use visuals, storytelling, and even light humor to bring your message to life—while keeping things professional and purposeful.
After the Video Conference: Tips
And that’s a wrap… almost. The presentation shouldn’t end when the video conference does. The right follow-up can strengthen your connections and reinforce your message.
9. Send a follow-up email
Within a day or two, thank attendees for joining and include a quick recap or resource link. Keep it simple and value-driven—this is about continuing the conversation, not selling to them.
10. Keep learning and improving
Record your virtual presentations when possible so you can review them later. Notice what worked—your pacing, visuals, or tone—and where you can adjust. The best speakers evolve with every session, whether they’re presenting live or via video conference.
Avoid These Common Video Conferencing Mistakes
- Ignoring lighting and sound quality—quick fixes here can make a big difference
- Reading directly from slides instead of speaking conversationally
- Not engaging remote participants with direct questions or eye contact
- Running over time without leaving space for Q&A
The Bottom Line
Strong public speaking isn’t limited to stages or auditoriums. In today’s digital-first business world, learning how to communicate confidently over video conferencing platforms can be just as powerful—and often, even more important. Your next great presentation might not happen in a boardroom, but in a virtual huddle that connects you with clients, peers, or collaborators across the world.
Mastering the art of virtual conferencing will help you not only share your ideas effectively but also build lasting relationships and credibility in every virtual room you enter. Whether you’re leading a client video conference, running a team virtual huddle, or presenting at a digital event, strong video conferencing skills help you communicate with clarity and confidence.
With practice and the right preparation, every online presentation becomes a chance to showcase your expertise and connect meaningfully—no stage required.
About the Author
Follow on Twitter Follow on Linkedin Visit Website More Content by Radhika Basuthakur
