Own the Zoom Room: A Voiceover Artist’s Guide to Commanding Online Meetings

Online meetings. Love 'em or tolerate 'em, they’re here to stay. And whether you’re pitching an idea, leading a team, or just trying to prove to your boss that you’re definitely not watching cat videos in another tab, your online presence matters.

As a voiceover artist, my entire job revolves around projecting confidence, clarity, and charisma using just my voice. But guess what? Those same skills translate beautifully to online meetings! So, if you’re ready to stop blending into the background like an old Zoom filter, here are some pro-level tips to help you shine.

1. Your Voice is Your Power Tool

If you sound like you just rolled out of bed (or worse, like you’re scared of your own team), people will tune out faster than a buffering video. Here’s how to make your voice work for you:

  • Warm up: Even a quick "red leather, yellow leather" or humming a tune helps loosen your vocal cords.

  • Speak with intention: Slow down and enunciate, but don’t go full Shakespearean monologue. Just aim for clarity.

  • Inflect, don’t neglect: A flat monotone is a one-way ticket to Boresville. Add variety to your pitch and tone to keep things engaging.

2. Your Posture = Your Presence

Even if your camera only shows your upper half, your whole body influences how you come across. Slouching? You’ll sound and look disengaged. Sitting up straight with your feet grounded? Boom. Instant confidence boost.

3. Eye Contact (Through the Screen, Not the Soul)

Ever had a conversation with someone who stared straight into the camera like a robot detecting life forms? Creepy, right? Instead of locking eyes with your webcam 100% of the time, try this:

  • When speaking, look at the camera to create the illusion of direct eye contact.

  • When listening, glance at the screen so you can see reactions and engage naturally.

  • Don’t forget to blink. (Seriously.)

4. Master the Art of the "I'm Still Listening" Face

A blank stare makes you look disconnected. Constant nodding makes you look like a bobblehead. Find a happy medium:

  • Slight nods? Yes.

  • Occasional eyebrow raises? Engaging.

  • Dramatic gasps and jazz hands? Maybe save those for game night.

5. Audio Matters More Than Video (Yes, Really)

Bad lighting is forgivable. Muffled, crackly audio? Not so much. If you want people to actually hear your brilliance:

  • Use an external mic or quality headphones (built-in laptop mics are... not great).

  • Speak at a steady volume—no whispering, no sudden shouting.

  • Test your setup before the meeting. Unless you enjoy the phrase, "Can you hear me now?" on repeat.

6. Dress Like You Mean Business (At Least from the Waist Up)

You don’t need to be in full corporate attire, but looking polished signals professionalism. A crisp shirt, a pop of color, or even a well-chosen accessory can subtly boost your authority. Bonus: Looking good = feeling good = sounding good.

7. Bring Energy, But Keep It Authentic

You don’t need to channel your inner game show host, but a little energy goes a long way. Smile when you talk (it literally changes how your voice sounds), engage with enthusiasm, and keep your gestures natural—no T-Rex arms!

8. Mute Strategically, But Don’t Disappear

Muting when you're not talking is great for cutting out background noise. But staying on mute the entire time makes you seem disengaged. When it’s your turn to speak, unmute quickly and jump in with confidence.

9. Practice, Record, Improve

Want to see how you really come across? Record yourself in a mock meeting. Watch it back and tweak:

  • Your pacing (too fast? Too slow?)

  • Your energy level (do you sound interested in what you're saying?)

  • Any weird habits (nervous giggling, overusing "ummm," or adjusting your glasses every five seconds)

10. End With Strength

Don’t just trail off like a weak Wi-Fi signal. Whether you’re wrapping up a point or closing a meeting, finish with confidence.

  • Summarize your key point.

  • Thank the group.

  • Log off like a pro (no awkward fumbling for the "Leave Meeting" button).

Final Thoughts

A confident presence in online meetings isn’t about being the loudest or the most dramatic. It’s about commanding attention with your voice, body language, and energy. Implement these tips, and you’ll go from just another square on the screen to the person everyone actually wants to listen to. Now go forth and own that Zoom room!

Need a confident, engaging voice for your brand, training, or commercial project? As a professional voiceover artist, I bring clarity, warmth, and professionalism to every script. Let's chat about how I can elevate your next project! Visit www.nicholescottvoiceover.com to learn more.

Nichole Scott