How can I manage presentation nerves during high-stakes client calls?

Presenting to important clients virtually creates a unique type of pressure. Without the physical presence that helps establish rapport, many remote workers find their anxiety intensified during high-stakes calls. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies for managing presentation nerves while projecting confidence through the screen.

Pre-call preparation techniques

The foundation of confident virtual presenting starts before you join the call. Create a "presentation zone" in your workspace – a specific area that you use only for important presentations. This dedicated space helps trigger a presentation mindset when you need it most.

Prepare a minimalist reference sheet with only your key points in very large font. Unlike detailed notes that can increase anxiety when you lose your place, this simple visual anchor keeps you on track without becoming a distraction. Position it directly behind your camera so you can glance at it naturally.

About 10 minutes before your call, try the "power pose" technique – stand in an expansive posture with your arms raised in a V-shape for two minutes. Research suggests this temporarily increases confidence hormones while decreasing stress hormones, creating an optimal internal state for presenting.

Managing nerves during the presentation

For immediate anxiety management during the call, keep a silent fidget tool like the Handheld Roller Fidget Toy just below camera view. This provides a productive channel for nervous energy without being visible to clients. Other great options include the Infinity Cube Fidget Toy, Tangle Fidget Toy Set, and Mesh & Marble Fidget Set of 10. The smooth, repetitive motion helps regulate your nervous system while keeping your hands steady.

Practice the "anchoring breath" technique when anxiety spikes – take a slow breath through your nose while pressing your feet firmly into the floor. This combination of deep breathing and physical grounding interrupts the anxiety cycle without being noticeable to viewers.

If you feel yourself rushing (a common anxiety response), deliberately place a short pause after making an important point. Count silently to three before continuing. These intentional pauses not only help you regain composure but actually make your presentation more impactful to listeners.

Recovery and reflection practices

After the call ends, resist the urge to immediately analyze your performance. Instead, spend 2-3 minutes doing a physical reset – stretch, walk around, or shake out tension from your body. This helps your nervous system return to baseline before you engage in any self-assessment.

Create a simple "presentation learning log" where you note one thing that went well and one area for improvement after each important call. This balanced approach prevents both unhelpful self-criticism and missed opportunities for growth.

Remember that some presentation anxiety is not only normal but beneficial – it shows you care about the outcome and helps maintain the energy level needed for engaging presentations. The goal isn't to eliminate nervousness entirely but to channel it productively.

For more strategies on managing nerves and staying focused, see What are hidden focus techniques for hour-long Zoom calls? and What are the best tools to help focus?.