4 Tips To Make The Most Of Videoconferences In Your Negotiations

“Smile! You’re on camera!”

These words just roll right off my back when I’m in a store. I’m a law-abiding, conscientious citizen, so no need to fear getting caught doing something I shouldn’t.

But cameras at work? Videoconferencing? Gulp…now that gets my blood pressure to shoot up a notch. I’ll be caught out with a messy desk, messy hair, ‘sans fards’ (without makeup)…not my idea of a good time.

In these times of embracing new technology (and shrinking travel budgets) more and more meetings and negotiations are taking place via video link. So we (I…) better get used to it, and find ways to be camera-ready. After all, the focus and energy should go towards the call itself, not all of the peripheral worries that come along with it.

Here are 4 tips to nail your time on camera.

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1-    You’re not landing a plane. Talking with your hands is one thing. Flailing? Another, far less desirable trait. Keeping your hands frozen on the tabletop will make you seem like a robot, so don’t go to extremes, but put effort into making sure that your movements are conscious, and they support your message.

2-    Consider all the angles. Where will you be participating in the call? A sterile conference room? Your home office? An open cubicle? Consider the view your counterparts will have – this is a good time to edit the background to make sure that nothing sensitive is in view, that office-neighbours know if they’ll be in the shot, and if that window behind your desk is going to effect how clearly you’re seen.

3-    Body language is a blessing, and a curse. When you’re on a video chat, you’ll need to be extra careful to avoid showing your reactions with a change in expression. A furrowed brow, pursed lip or ‘huh?!?’ face may be ok when you’re talking on the phone…but when your counterpart can see you, it’s best to keep those knee-jerk expressions to yourself.

4-    Practice makes perfect. There will always be a tech glitch to throw a wrench in your scheduled video calls, but make sure that your lack of preparedness doesn’t negatively impact your negotiation. Get as comfortable as possible with being on camera by practicing with colleagues or family (a great excuse to Skype with out of town friends on the weekend!). Check out the mic and speaker settings to make sure you can be heard clearly and aren’t getting system feedback.

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Whew. There we go. 4 ways to improve your performance in video conferences. Now let’s get out there, and smile!

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Do you use video conferences often? Feel like you’re a natural on camera and have tips to share? Anyone want to get in a practice Skype session and ask me a question about your latest negotiations – give a shout at devon@devonsmiley.com!