We Are All Video Stars Now
Feel like your life has become one big video conference call? Here are some tips based on what the Foxes have encountered over the last few weeks.
Video conferencing has become such a part of my work life recently that I am literally talking to people through a video conference interface in my dreams. No joke, COVID-19 stress dreams are for real! But for your real-life appointments, we have found that there a few key elements that really make for a successful video call, no matter who the audience or what the topic. Incorporate these tips to put your best digital face forward!
Create and distribute an agenda. Just like in person meetings, having an agenda will ensure that you get what you need out of the meeting. If you are the meeting facilitator, having an agenda will help you keep control of your audience and shared content.
Practice and troubleshoot before your meeting. Technology is wonderful in times like these. It helps us almost feel like we are in the same room. But when the sound isn’t working or the screen share feature isn’t doing what you want, it can really be stressful to try and troubleshoot with a “room” full of people. If you are going to be doing anything more than just having a conversation, make sure that you have walked through all of those other presentation tools first.
Minimize distractions. Choose a location in your house with a background that is not distracting and with good lighting. Get your kids, pets, and significant other occupied before the call starts to limit distractions. Perhaps create a “Do Not Disturb” system that lets others in your house know when you are unavailable.
Look professional. Yes, I know, pajamas are the new work attire but that doesn’t mean we should look like we just rolled out of bed when we are on a call with our clients or co-workers. Take a minute to brush your hair or put on a hat. For ladies that like makeup, there are great tutorials online that showcase a quick 5-minute face that’s great for video chat. Do not wear tee shirts with crazy sayings. Try to find something neutral, comfortable, and that you could wear on casual Friday.
It may seem like we all have bigger things to deal with during these times than to worry how great we look on camera, but I would guess that remote working and video conferencing is not going to end when the coronavirus finally goes away. Creating professional habits now is good business practice, and being a good leader or participant on video calls is now a part of your brand, which is how others define you. Treat these opportunities no differently than when you put your best face forward in person. The only difference is, on video chat, pants are optional.