How to “Wow” in Online Meetings
A bite-sized training session for researchers and scientists who want to show up at their best in online meetings (using Zoom, Teams, Google Hangouts, and similar tools)
The shift to virtual meetings and collaborations is here to stay. Making a strong, professional impression online is now an essential skill in our fast-paced digital world.
Our “How to Wow in Online Meetings” training equips scientists and researchers with practical tips to make a strong, memorable impression in virtual settings.
This bite-sized session takes place online via Zoom, and can be offered as a 60-90 minute talk or webinar, or a more interactive experience of up to 3 hours, combining theory, theory, hands-on exercises, and peer feedback.
Approach: Individual exercises and group discussions, coupled with immediately actionable theory and peer feedback, with a focus on making a measurable difference to how researchers come across online
Practical component: Participants build on theory and tips to modify how they are showing up with their existing online meeting technology, and work on using their “instruments” (voice, body, online tools) to be credible and present online.
Delivery: 2 hours online (Zoom or your preferred platform)
Group size: up 100 participants
What we cover in 2 hours:
- Harnessing the technology you have: Learn to use your mic, webcam, and other tools effectively, even when your only tech is a mobile phone.
- Tips for technology improvements: possible upgrades
- Looking and sounding your sest: Explore tips for camera positioning, lighting, and low-tech tricks to present yourself professionally.
- Short, impactful introductions: Master a simple framework for introducing yourself clearly, authentically, and memorably.
- Vocal techniques for impact: Discover how to use vocal variety to keep your audience’s attention, especially when cameras are off.
- Reading and responding to body language: Develop skills to interpret subtle cues and maintain engaging interactions online.
- Active listening and probing questions: Foster meaningful dialogue that makes others feel heard and valued.
Perfect for
- PhD programmes preparing students for conferences, job markets, and career transitions
- Graduate schools building professional development skills for early-career researchers
- Postdoctoral programmes supporting researchers seeking visibility and career advancement
- Institutions helping researchers prepare for grant applications, collaborations, or industry partnerships
- Career development programmes supporting researchers exploring both academic and non-academic pathways
- Research groups preparing for major conferences or networking events
This session works well as an introduction to professional identity development or as preparation before networking training and conference attendance.
Looking for related skills sessions or longer-format training?
You may also be interested in:
- Presentation Delivery Skills for Scientists & Researchers (voice and non-verbal cues)
- Facilitation and Moderation Skills (leading meetings, conversations, and groups)
See all short Skills Sessions and our Long-format Training →
Explore all training topics
Not sure which format or topic you need? Browse our complete catalogue of communication training, organised by category.
Ready to help your scientists and researchers define and communicate their professional identity?
We’d love to help you design the right training approach for your researchers or group.
This 2-hour session can be delivered as:
- A standalone workshop for your researchers, scientists, or staff
- Part of a doctoral training programme
- A mini-workshop or interactive session for a conference
- A component of a custom skills-building series
Curious? Get in touch.
