I’ve been noticing a new, rather disturbing phenomena that seems to be settling in on many of my virtual conversations.  The sound is good, the camera is sharp, the connection seems adequate, and the lighting is generally fine.  In our race to master this unique form of communication, there is one element that seems to be getting left behind and forgotten: It’s our face!  Many of us are developing something I call “monotone face.”

I think most of us associate the word “monotone” with our voice.  When you listen to someone speak in a monotone voice, you’re hearing a voice that has little to no range.  It doesn’t really go up, it doesn’t really go down, and it doesn’t change speeds.  It just kind of sounds uninspired, and hangs there like the air on a hot, steamy, day.  In fact, it creates an impression that convinces others that you just don’t care.

Well, regrettably, this vocal condition is now spreading to our faces.  Maybe it’s because we are getting so darn comfortable in front of the camera, we are actually forgetting we’re in front of a camera.  Remember, many of us have spent a lifetime on a phone where our faces can get away with murder!  However, with virtual communication, we no longer have the luxury of just focusing on our voices.  We’re front and center from beginning to end, so we’re going to need to make a few adjustments.

1. Watch Your Entrance And Exit. Nothing says “monotone face” louder than coming on camera with a confused scowl, or exiting the call with a similar puzzled grimace.   Have that smile ready to go before that camera light goes on, and once you say goodbye, hold that smile until that call has ended.  That means about a minute beforeyou say your goodbyes, move your mouse right on top of the “End” or “Leave Meeting.”  That will eliminate a smile that turns a bit stale while you fumble your way off the call.
2. The Camera Is Your Friend. It’s no secret that looking the person you are speaking with in the eyes is not really looking that person in the eyes.  When you communicate virtually, you’re looking below your camera when you make actual eye contact.  Don’t stare that camera down, but when you want to punch up the conversation, or make an important point, move your gaze up, and look that camera right in the eye!
3. Acknowledge You’re Taking Notes. I’m a guy who likes to take notes when I speak with others.  It can seem flattering, and certainly convinces him or her that you’re listening.  This works great when you are speaking face-to-face, but there may be other consequences when communicating virtually. You not only risk “monotone (face,” but you also risk looking distracted and uninterested when you take notes.  If you’re taking notes on screen, remind the person you’re speaking with that you’ll be taking notes… and do this more than once.  If you’re taking notes with a pen and paper, once again let them know you’ll be taking notes, and let them see it.  I make a point of actually scratching my nose or gesturing with my pen, and bringing my pad of paper into view from time-to-time.
4. Bring Your Hands Up. The more you gesture with your hands, the more interesting you become; that will bail you out if your face tends to get a little monotone on you.  However, unless you’re pushed way back from the screen, cameras tend to miss your normal hand gestures.  That means you’re going to need to bring those hands up a bit to be seen, and if you do, they’ll take the focus off of just your face.
5. Have A Beverage. I’m going with the assumption that when you’re face-to-face, or with your friends, you don’t battle “monotone face.”  A cup of coffee, tea, water, or any other beverage of your choice will unconsciously send signals to the body to relax a bit, while sending those same signals to those you are communicating with. It also tends to help the face and body to be more at ease.

The good news is that suffering from the dreaded “monotone face” is not a prison sentence.  Anyone can change how he or she comes across on screen.  By following these process behavior suggestions, you’ll be able to keep your face looking animated and interesting. In turn, that will keep the people you’re speaking with interested in you and what you have to say.

The Presentation Whisperer Show, is not just up and running; we’re celebrating our 60^th show!

You’ll hear candid conversations with top professional speakers, seasoned trainers, and authors finding their voice. We’ll be uncovering the secrets behind powerful delivery and go beyond the surface to reveal what really makes a presentation resonate. Whether you’re a keynote speaker, a trainer, or simply someone with a message to share, you’ll walk away with practical tools and inspiring ideas to elevate your delivery.  Give it a try!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-presentation-whisperer-show/id1844512932

Because every presentation matters.

Pocket Sized Pep Talks is going strong!

You’ll hear a dynamic mix of quick solo insights, inspirational interviews, designed to teach, motivate, inspire, and yes… entertain. Whether you’re looking for a spark of motivation, a burst of inspiration, or just a quick dose of encouragement, there’s a Pep Talk waiting for you. Give it a listen!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pocket-sized-pep-talks/id1497772972

Sometimes, five minutes is all it takes to change your day.

To all fans of The Blarticle®

After sixteen years and over 500 posts, I’ve gathered some of my very best into a new book: It’s a Blarticle®! 45 Quick, Powerful Lessons in Persuasion, Performance & Personal Growth.

You can find it now at all major online retailers, including Amazon, in both paperback and eBook formats…

…but since you’ve made it this far, I’ll take that as proof you’re a true Blarticle® fan! I’d like to thank you with a free copy of the eBook. Grab yours here: https://jolles-associates.kit.com/ebook

I hope you enjoy it, and as always, I hope you and can take something from it.

Want to listen to this BLArticle® read by the author?  Tune in to “Pocket Sized Pep Talks” and you’ll hear a collection of BLArticles®, conversations, and interviews updated often! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pocket-sized-pep-talks/id1497772972