Almost everyone uses video conferencing in their work now. Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, the use of video calls increased by 50%. So you can only imagine how prevalent it is now… But even if you’re a seasoned pro at video calls, we all know the struggle of fidgeting with settings, dealing with unexpected barking dogs, and finding the right angle that doesn’t make you look like you’re auditioning for a horror film. So here’s a round up of six awesome tips that will have you rocking those video calls like a champ.
In the simplest terms, a video call is like having a face-to-face conversation with someone without being in the same room. Imagine waving hello to your colleague from across town, or sharing a smile with a family member halfway across the globe. It’s like magic, but with Wi-Fi and a webcam.
You’re probably already familiar with some of the heavy lifters in the video conferencing world. Zoom has become practically a household name, synonymous with both work meetings and virtual happy hours. Then there’s Microsoft Teams, which is perfect for keeping the office chatter flowing. Google Meet is another favorite that integrates smoothly with your Google Calendar, and let’s not forget about Skype, the old pro that’s still hanging in there. Each of these platforms brings their own flavor to the table, whether it’s Zoom’s breakout rooms or Teams’ seamless collaboration with other Microsoft apps.
So now that you’ve got the lay of the land, are you ready to level up your video call game? Keep reading for those six awesome tips that will make you the superstar of any meeting!
1. Always Switch Your Video On
First things first, always switch that video on! It can be tempting to hide behind that static profile picture, especially on a day when you’re feeling more “just rolled out of bed” than “camera ready.” But turning your video on makes a world of difference. It’s the virtual equivalent of making eye contact — it builds rapport, shows you’re fully present, and adds a personal touch to the interaction. Plus, it’s way easier for everyone to pick up on those non-verbal cues, like a reassuring nod or a friendly smile. 90% of people feel they can get their point across better when they know they’re being seen.
2. Invest In A Good Camera
Let’s get real for a hot second — your laptop’s built-in camera just isn’t cutting it. If you’re serious about making a fantastic impression in your video calls, it’s time to invest in a good quality camera. Higher resolution equals clearer pictures, and that means people get to see you in all your professional glory. No more fuzzy images or weird pixilation making you look like you belong in an 8-bit video game. A great camera can make a huge difference, from showing off that winning smile to making sure your meaning isn’t lost in a blur. Invest in the best webcam you can to give a top impression of your professionalism.
3. Find Your Light
Alright, let’s talk lighting. Ever notice how some people look like they’re basking in the glow of the golden hour while others seem to be reporting live from a dark, mysterious cave? That’s the power of good lighting. You don’t need a fancy studio setup, but a little bit of effort can go a long way. Position a light source — like a desk lamp or, even better, natural sunlight — in front of you to illuminate your face. Avoid having strong light sources behind you; they’ll just turn you into a shadowy silhouette. And hey, if you want to get a little extra, consider investing in a ring light. They’re affordable and can make you look like a million bucks!
4. Keep Your Background in Check
Now let’s discuss what’s happening behind you. A messy background can be super distracting. Sure, we’ve all had that moment where a family member strolls by or your cat decides to make a cameo. While it’s endearing, it’s not super professional. You don’t need a celebrity-worthy home office, but tidying up and choosing a clean, simple backdrop can do wonders. No one needs to see your laundry pile or that half-eaten sandwich from lunch. If you’re really stuck, many video call platforms offer virtual backgrounds — just remember to pick something appropriate. Your colleagues and clients will appreciate the effort.
5. Mute When You’re Not Speaking
Accidental background noise is the bane of every video call. We’ve all been there: your dog suddenly discovers his inner wolf, your neighbor decides it’s the perfect time to mow the lawn, or maybe your partner starts practicing their one-person-band routine in the next room. Do yourself and everyone else a favor and hit that mute button when you’re not speaking. It’s a small gesture, but it keeps the meeting flowing smoothly and shows that you’re considerate of everyone’s focus and time. Plus, nothing shatters the vibe of a good presentation like the unexpected soundtrack of daily life.
6. Dress The Part
The appeal of working in your PJs is strong. But dressing the part for your video calls makes a big difference. Sure, you technically only need to worry about what’s visible on camera, but taking a few extra minutes to throw on a nice shirt or blouse can put you in the right mindset. It’s like flipping a switch from “lounge mode” to “work mode.” Plus, if you suddenly need to stand up for any reason, you won’t have to worry about concealing those fluffy bunny slippers. So go ahead, swap the loungewear for some real clothes, and feel the productivity boost that comes with looking the part!
With these tips up your sleeve, you’ll be ready to crush any video call like a pro!