Top Tips for Communicating Online from Debate Mate Limited!

Debate Mate Virtual is just one branch of the for-profit side of Debate Mate that helps power social change through our charitable arm, Debate Mate Schools.

The other branch of our business, Debate Mate Limited, offers corporate communication training to businesses who want to upscale their workforce. They have worked with apprentices and trainees up to Board level executives and CEOs across legal, finance, media, sport, hospitality and retail sectors!
To put it briefly, they are experts in communicating effectively!

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, online communication has increasingly become the norm- a form of communicating that most people have little to no experience in!

Never fear- the team at Debate Mate Limited have compiled their 5 top tips for your child when communicating online...

1. Breathe and take your time!

A deep breath before you start can transform your speech and settle your nerves. By speaking at a steady pace, you will be comfortable with the speed you are communicating at and will be able to remember all of your important points. Online this is less dramatic, but more important!

2. Be comfortable in your (digital) space. 

Sit up, look interested and positive, ensure you you can use your hands for emphasis. A rule of ‘thumb’ is can you do ‘air quotes’ on screen? By creating a space you are comfortable in, you will be able to communicate confidently and demonstrate important stylistic techniques such as hand gestures and body language.

3. Eye-Contact. 

It can be very tempting to look at everyone’s reactions when you are communicating online. One of our top tips is to use the camera as your ‘eye-contact’ point. This will make sure your points are impactful and engage your audience. 

4. Be the audience you wish you had.

You are communicating even when you aren’t technically speaking. Have your camera on, sit positively, nod at the right time, smile, engage and use the emojis to encourage the person speaking. They will then (hopefully!) do the same for you. This is also a great time to be making notes in preparation for POI’s or your rebuttal! 

5. Be yourself!

Using your stylistic techniques is especially important when communicating online! Think about the tips that make your speech persuasive and engaging.  Project your voice – even through your laptop screen - Remember to speak at a level 7 so everyone can hear your great points.