From Boardrooms to Browser Tabs: How Online Meetings Reshaped Business—And Why Presence Still Matters
Kerrin Nuthall
Business Development Executive at Evoke Projects - Creators of Well - Places
Before the pandemic made Zoom a household name, virtual meetings were already reshaping how some of us worked.
More than a decade ago, while working with Arrowquip, a Global company specialising in world-class livestock handling equipment, I was involved in establishing a distributor network across North America. The challenge? Thousands of kilometres, limited resources, and a growing need to build relationships without always being in the room.
That’s when I began using video calls—not because it was trendy, but because it was strategic.
These early online meetings helped me:
Even then, I saw the potential of virtual meetings—not as a substitute for human connection, but as a tool to enhance and extend it.
💥 Then Came COVID—and the World Caught Up
The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t invent online meetings—but it did accelerate their adoption across industries.
Suddenly, platforms like Zoom became the meeting rooms, classrooms, and catch-up spaces that kept the world moving.
At Evoke Projects, where we design and deliver medical, veterinary, and workplace environments, Zoom is now a key part of our workflow. We use it to present concept designs, connect interstate teams, and meet clients where they are.
But here’s the catch: technology alone doesn’t create a great meeting. The people—and how they show up—still matter most.
🎯 Online Meetings Are Here to Stay—But We Still Get Them Wrong
Across LinkedIn, professionals continue to ask:
The answer lies in intentionality, preparation, and presence—regardless of platform.
🔑 5 Principles for Making Virtual Meetings Work
1. Purpose Over Presence
Start with a clear agenda. Share it in advance. Define the objective and who needs to be in the room. Test the tech beforehand. Time is too valuable to wing it.
2. Engagement is Everyone’s Job
Use breakout rooms, whiteboards, polls, and chat features. Encourage quieter voices. Don’t just present—invite participation.
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3. Professionalism Still Counts
Camera on. Clean background. Dress appropriately. Mute when not speaking. Show up as if you’re in the room. It shows respect—for yourself and others.
4. Inclusion is Not Optional
Enable captions. Share materials in accessible formats. Consider screen readers and interpreters when needed. Inclusive meetings are better for everyone.
5. Follow Through with Intent
Summarise key actions. Share minutes or recordings. Keep momentum going. A great meeting doesn’t end when you hit “Leave”.
🤝 The Human Factor Still Wins
I’ve seen firsthand how digital tools like Zoom can streamline workflows and improve access. But I’ve also learned this:
No amount of tech can replace trust.
At Evoke, we still value face-to-face meetings, walk-throughs, and shared coffees. Trust is often built between the agenda items—and you can’t always replicate that through a screen.
The key is knowing when to be digital, and when to go in person. That balance is where real efficiency and connection happen.
📈 A Tool for Strategy, Not Just Convenience
In business development, I now use virtual meetings strategically to:
It allows us to move faster without compromising on connection or professionalism.
🎤 Final Thoughts: It’s Still About How You Show Up
Online meetings have transformed the way we do business—but they haven’t changed what makes business work:
✅ Clarity ✅ Presence ✅ Professionalism ✅ Respect
The platform may evolve—but your values shouldn’t.
So next time you hit “Join Meeting,” ask yourself:
Am I showing up like I would in person? Because if the meeting matters, so should how you lead it.