Behind the Scenes Interview with Dave Reinhardt
Watch the interview footage used for this article featuring Dave Reinhardt, Executive Faculty at Ty Boyd, Inc., or continue reading below:
How Executive Leaders Can Create Human Connection Online
Virtual meetings aren’t going anywhere.
In fact, they’ve become the heartbeat of modern business.
Executives lead remote teams, make high‑stakes decisions, and inspire their whole base of employees – all through a tiny laptop camera lens. And while virtual presenting will never be identical to standing in front of a room, there is a right way to make this medium work for you.
The good news? Creating real human connection online is absolutely possible – and easier than most leaders realize.
Let’s walk through practical, battle‑tested techniques for elevating your virtual presence, strengthening trust with your team, and delivering online presentations that are clear, engaging, and unmistakably you.
Why Virtual Presentations Still Matter More Than Ever
It was the pandemic that forced us into virtual communication, but as a result it opened our eyes to its advantages. Leaders realized they could:
- Connect with people more consistently without the burden of travel.
- Maintain strong relationships with dispersed teams.
- Keep momentum going even when circumstances make in‑person meetings impossible.
For executives leading remote or hybrid teams, short, well‑executed “face time” online helps you to be present, three‑dimensional, and deeply human.
But only if you use the tools well.
Nail the Basics: Great Audio and Visuals Build Credibility
Online, everything is filtered through a camera and microphone. That means the quality of your gear directly shapes the impression you make.
And here’s the kicker: research shows poor audio actually harms how people perceive your competence.
The microphone matters most
If your audio cuts out, your meeting is done. That’s why I recommend:
- Skip Bluetooth headsets (batteries die, connections drop)
- Use a simple wired lavalier mic – reliable, clear, and under $20
- Or choose a USB webcam with a built‑in mic for a two‑in‑one upgrade
Wired isn’t old tech. It’s reliable tech.
Your camera is your connection
Most modern laptops have solid cameras. But if yours is older, a $40–$70 external webcam is a game‑changer. It clips on, plugs into USB, and instantly improves clarity.
Lighting: The unsung hero of great video
Good lighting makes you look more trustworthy, more present, and more human.
A simple ring light or desk light can:
- Eliminate shadows
- Prevent “creepy” dimming as the sun sets
- Keep the focus on you
And please… if you use a virtual background, make sure your hand doesn’t disappear every time you take a sip of coffee. Great lighting helps your computer keep you in focus.
Staying Connected When Tech Goes Wrong
Technology will fail. Not if – when. So prepare your audience before anything goes sideways.
Tell them upfront:
“If we disconnect, just rejoin with the same link.”
Then have a backup plan:
- Know how to tether your laptop to your phone
- Consider a dedicated hotspot for mission‑critical meetings
- Restart your computer before big presentations
Peace of mind comes from preparation.
How to Keep People Engaged (Longer Than 10 Minutes)
Studies show attention plummets after about 10 minutes in a virtual meeting. So your job as a leader is to mix things up, keep energy alive, and maintain human connection.
Build in engagement points
Try simple techniques like:
- Asking people to physically raise their hands
- Using the chat for questions (with a planned pause to read them)
- Adding a teammate as a “producer” to filter and feed you questions
- Launching quick polls to take the room’s temperature
With AI, you can learn how to set up polls in seconds. Just ask your platform’s AI assistant.
The power of collaboration
Some of the most memorable virtual meetings I’ve seen involved genuine co‑creation.
One group wrote an original poem together – 15 lines dropped into the chat simultaneously. It was creative, unexpected, and unforgettable. People remember moments like that.
Start Strong: Your Opening Sets the Tone
Most virtual meetings start with a boring agenda slide. Don’t do that to people. They deserve better.
Instead:
- Use a compelling image tied to your main message.
- Play background music as people enter (optional but powerful).
- Deliver a verbal opening that connects to the image.
Right away, you create curiosity, momentum, and a listening audience. Don’t believe me? Try it and see what happens!
Structure Your Presentation Like a Pro
A strong meeting or presentation structure isn’t limiting. It actually frees you to be spontaneous and confident.
Two of my favorite simple templates:
PPF: Past. Present. Future.
Perfect for updates, team meetings, or vision casting.
SOS: Situation. Options. Solution.
Ideal for problem‑solving discussions and operational briefings.
AI can also generate a custom structure based on the summaries of your previous meetings. Let technology do some of the heavy lifting.
Handling Tough Questions with Grace
Gotcha questions lose their sting when you prepare for them in advance. Try this two‑step approach:
- Ask AI or a trusted colleague to generate hard questions based on your meeting content.
- Practice answering them using PPF or SOS.
If a question feels hostile during a live meeting, assume the person is anxious – not attacking. Breathe, pause, and respond with respect.
👉 For more on practice and preparation for executives, read our article, Practice and Preparation: Building Your Executive Communication System.
👉 And for the really tough questions that necessitate a side conversation to address the situation, read the article, Executive Communication: Navigating Difficult Workplace Conversations.
Why Standing Makes You a Better Virtual Presenter
Energy is contagious (both negative and positive energy). Meeting fatigue and other factors can create negative energy. As a leader it’s your responsibility to create a positive vibe. If you stand, you naturally bring more positive energy. Your audience feels it – even through a screen.
Try:
- Standing for important meetings.
- Starting with an acknowledgment of the moment (“I know this week has been really heavy on meetings…”).
- Modeling the energy you want from the room.
The Great Debate: Cameras On or Off?
Executives everywhere agree: cameras off is their #1 pet peeve in virtual meetings.
Set expectations early by including this in the invite:
“This will be a cameras‑on meeting.”
Then explain why:
Cameras on = shorter meetings + fewer follow-ups + clearer communication.
If people still keep cameras off, use positive peer pressure:
“Jenny, great to see you! It’s been a while. How are things in Knoxville?”
Suddenly… cameras start popping on.
Use a Checklist So Gremlins Don’t Win
Checklists exist for one reason: peace of mind.
Start with items like:
- Restart computer
- Update virtual meeting software
- Turn on Do Not Disturb
- Check Wi-Fi or tethering
In our book The Million Dollar Toolbox, Chapter 15 includes a starter virtual presenting checklist you can build on.
Coaching: The Secret to Becoming a Powerhouse Online Communicator
Leaders get better through feedback. Period. And even moreso through professional coaching.
After a virtual meeting or presentation, ask your team:
“Give me two coaching points on content and two on delivery.”
By doing this you will normalize feedback and build a culture of excellence.
For deeper transformation, we offer one‑on‑one executive coaching and our Next Level virtual training (for Excellence in Speaking Institute graduates).
The #1 Skill for Virtual Connection: Eye Contact Through the Lens
The camera lens is the eye of your audience.
You don’t have to stare into it like a news anchor – simply move your meeting window just beneath the camera so your gaze naturally aligns.
It reduces fatigue and builds that all‑important human connection.
Final Thoughts
Virtual presenting isn’t about fancy tech. It’s about human connection.
When leaders show up prepared, authentic, and attentive to the details, they create online experiences people remember – even enjoy.
And that’s the whole point.
Be courageous.
Be authentic.
Be memorable.