# How to Maximize Executive Presence on a Video Conference Call: Tips for Startups
In the ever-evolving world of startup pitching, gone are the days of sleek conference rooms overlooking Sand Hill Road. With remote pitching here to stay, founders must adapt to effectively communicate and convey executive presence on video conference calls.
## The Importance of Executive Presence in Virtual Pitches
When pitching to potential investors, it’s not just about the content of your pitch, but also about how you present it. Dr. Laura Sicola of Vocal Impact Productions stresses the importance of aligning what you say with how you say it. For founders, this means conveying not only a compelling pitch but also the qualities that investors are looking for in potential recipients of their investments.
## Tips for Nailing a High-Stakes Zoom Meeting
1. **Camera Angles Matter**
– Position your camera to frame yourself in a mature and authoritative manner to convey confidence.
2. **Create a Professional Setting**
– Ensure good lighting and avoid virtual backgrounds, opting for a clean, well-lit space for your pitch.
3. **Invest in a Quality Microphone**
– A good external microphone is essential for clear and professional audio during your virtual presentation.
## Refining Your Video Conference Pitch
In addition to the setup, it’s essential to fine-tune the content and delivery of your pitch. Here’s how Laura suggests making your virtual pitch standout:
– **Tell a Story Behind the Statistics**
– Your pitch should strike a balance between factual details and the story behind your startup’s mission and purpose.
– **Find Your Authentic Professional Self**
– Identify the aspect of yourself that needs to come across as confident, controlled, and authoritative to your audience.
– **Master the Art of Effective Communication**
– Learn to avoid speaking in a stream of consciousness and utilize strategic pauses for a powerful delivery without overdoing it.
Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or new to the world of virtual pitching, cultivating executive presence is vital in securing investors’ confidence, and implementing these tips can set you on the path to success.
*For more in-depth insights into cultivating executive presence in any setting, check out [How to Command a Room: Speak Like a Leader to Build Your Business.](https://www.allbusiness.com/how-to-command-a-room)*
*This article is based on an interview between Nathan Beckord and Dr. Laura Sicola on an episode of Foundersuite’s [How I Raised It podcast.](https://soundcloud.com/user-2586856/ep-263-how-i-raised-it-with-laura-sicola-of-vocal-impact-productions?si=8157fd69ca7f4e7a8c6668205b787543&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing)*
By following these pro tips, you can maximize your presence and make a lasting impact in your next virtual pitch.
