I think teacher personality can positively effect the experience for an online learner.  There are many students who need to feel emotional involvement with distance virtual learning.  I find that an upbeat personality helps with lesson absorbtion, retention, and leads to a more welcoming learning environment.  

The challenge with this, as an instructor, is to provide enough positive emotional support while not crossing the boundary into a laxadasical environemnt.  Commanding respect while operating in a friendly, relatable, and semi-relaxed manner is a balancing act.

I look forward to finding the best balance in emotional and instructional support for my online learners!!