The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.Humans rely on making business transactions, personal relationships, and participating in resume generating events face to face. For now, we must transition into a virtual setting for safety reasons. Companies like Cisco and Zoom make these meetings possible, but it’s still not quite the same. Here are 3 tips and tricks to make your meeting times feel real.
Being on camera is not a comfortable feeling for everyone; there is just something about that little illuminated dot that can be nerve wrecking. If you’re thinking, “The camera gains 10 lbs”, or, “Everyone is watching me” the truth is you’re not the only one thinking it. Many of Reno’s citizens became hermits during isolation, we need to remember our routines and schedules including face to face interactions.
The first trick is to treat your classes and meetings as if you were there in person. Get up, get dressed, look presentable, and log in 15 minutes early to address any potential issues ( Because we all know everything seems to have technical issues when it is presentation time). I believe,
“If you look good, you will feel good about yourself and you will do good things because you’re confident.”
Facts are facts, most web cameras use wide angle lenses. An easy trick to making yourself look better is placing your camera away from your face and above your eye level while implementing environmental ambiance with good lighting.
You don’t want to go for the “up the nose” look, or be a shadow figure. If you are using a laptop, tablet, or mobile device don’t be afraid to use a few books or a shoe box to at least be eye to eye with the web cam. You also see the tops of your shoulders in the frame, if you can’t see them, scoot back. Great lighting is essential to video, and photography. Professionals spend good money on lighting equipment. You can use things around your home for lighting on camera. If you have an available lamp, place light to be behind the camera and in front of your face. If you don’t have a lamp, face the wall and point a flashlight toward the wall. It will create a soft glow across your face. Leaving you illuminated without feeling blinded. My favorite light is natural light, because I love to look out the window while I work during the day.
My third and final trick to making a virtual meeting feel real is the most important; be
present. If you don’t have a requirement to use your camera you should. Even if you’re the only one on camera you will be more attentive and focused. Another good rule of thumb is providing mutual respect for others during your discussions. Be patient and ask questions when there is a time to speak. If you are hosting the call establish ground rules before beginning the session to set expectations for answering questions and conduct. Ease of communication is necessary when you’re unable to determine body language or facilitate that few minutes in the hallway to clarify a topic.
Being prepared for your web cam meeting will be preparing for success.
If you have any other tricks and tips that you use to make your virtual meeting feel more real please feel free to leave them in the comments. If you think this blog has been helpful in anyway don't be afraid to share it with your peers.