Building Trust and Rapport in Virtual Communication

While the world is slowly opening again, certain aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic era seem to be here to stay (at least for the foreseeable future). In our “new normal,” hybrid and virtual modes of work are transforming the workforce. And as we continue to learn about and use virtual platforms, it is even more important to be aware of how you come across virtually. To help address these issues, the Community of Legal Innovators hosted Cara Hale Alter to share some adapted key communication tips from her book The Credibility Code. Here are three tips that I found helpful:

1.Use the F.L.A.B. method.

    1. Frame your camera head to heart. Also, remember not to crowd the frame.
    2. Light your face with the strongest light present in your space. Be mindful of backlighting that can create shadows that block your face.
    3. Angle your camera to be at eye level.
    4. Backgrounds should be as distraction-free as possible. Do not be afraid of virtual backgrounds, if necessary!

2. Keep your camera on. It is best to keep your camera on because the more we are exposed to something, the more we like it. However, there are reasons to turn your camera off (i.e., to maintain privacy, to reserve your personal energy, etc.).

  1. 3. Speak a level above normal. Use your voice to meet people where they are—speak as if you are speaking to someone five feet away (do not just speak to your computer’s microphone).

Thank you to the Community of Legal Innovators and Cara Hale Alter for an engaging and insightful presentation. To learn more about The Credibility Code, and purchase a copy, click here.

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *