Web casting, videoconferencing and web meetings are the #1 hot topic for both corporations and entrepreneurs. But is meeting online going to get you the results you want – if you just use boring data slides? Try this easy technique to build fast buy-in in online meetings – with visuals you can readily obtain.
Before you read on, look around.
How would you describe your work area? Or the view from your desk? Would it be faster to write a detailed description, listing all the items in view – or would it be easier to take a picture?
A photograph humanizes virtual communications. Especially photographs of people who are doing the things your online audience is doing. People working, talking and interacting with peers.
In online meetings, you often can’t see your audience. And they can’t see you. But that means you can still use the visual images in photographs to convey a warm, friendly and human touch.
A photograph is the fastest way to slice through the deluge of data and information.
Take on the visual challenge. Look for photographs to depict your audience. Not with an eye to match each individual participant. Instead, aim to be inclusive so each and every participant can see himself or herself in the picture.
How to choose the best photo?
Pick the one to appeal to a broad and diverse audience. And think about the people who will be attending your online meeting.
If you are working in a corporation, or presenting to an organization, go exploring on their website. Most often, they will have photographs showing employees, customers and client interaction.
When you are presenting to a specific corporation, use some of the photos from their website or annual report. This sends several messages to your virtual audience.
Message 1: You care.
You took the time to go on their website and review the pictures they use. This extra effort shows care and commitment.
Message 2: You respect their work.
Instead of giving a canned presentation, you went the extra mile to show respect and provide individualization of your presentation. This is not the same old- same old meeting. it’s unique.
Message 3: You value diverse learning styles.
Show data and show pictures. Match the different learning styles, which will certainly be present in the diverse participants in your virtual meeting.
This photo-searching step is fast and easy to do. Make it part of your personal best practices for every virtual meeting – whether internal and external client briefing, presentations or strategic review.
You’ll enjoy not only the visual impact of your presentation but the rewards in more business, faster decision making and significant growth to your bottom line.
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