Rachel Cossar’s resume doesn’t scream “artificial intelligence startup founder.” She studied political science and government in school, competed on the Canadian Rhythmic Gymnastics team, and was a professional ballet dancer for ten years. But it’s what she learned from those experiences that inspired her artificial intelligence company.
“I danced with the Boston Ballet for 10 years, and I have always been fascinated by the human ability to communicate without words,” Kosar said wealth. “When the pandemic happened and we suddenly switched from communicating in person to communicating over video, I was also fascinated by how body language translated through this new channel.”
Cossar co-founded Virtual Sapiens with CTO Neal Kaiser in 2020 to help business professionals improve body language during video calls. Dubbed a “personal communication coach,” the AI can instantly monitor everything from gestures to speech speed and provide specific feedback on how to appear more authoritative, engaging, or persuasive on screen. Advice includes “watch your posture,” “look into the camera when talking,” and “try not to touch your face.”
Scientists agree that nonverbal cues play a huge role in communication, and some say they can more important than what was actually said. But connecting on Zoom can be difficult, especially because some of the social cues that naturally arise in face-to-face communication don’t translate so easily to a video call. For example, to make eye contact on Zoom, someone must look at the camera, not at the other person’s face on the screen. By providing instant suggestions, Virtual Sapiens provides users with orchestrations that leave a lasting impression.
“If you’re thinking of customer-facing professionals, such as sales professionals or customer success professionals, our technology helps them increase awareness, confidence and video comfort so they can show up and make an impact,” said Virtual Sapiens CEO Cossar said.
“Having a virtual presence consistent with the message you’re trying to send is the difference between making a sale and not making one,” she adds. “If you leave the moment of connection on the table, you’re missing out on a ton of opportunity for success.”
Learn more about Virtual Sapiens and meet professional coaches using the tool in the video above.
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