12 Video Conference Tips for Successful Meetings

Our Video Conference Tips.

Video conferences and online meetings are now the norms — and that isn’t changing anytime soon. With more than a third of the U.S. population working from home nearly a year into the pandemic, staying connected to our teams and peers is critical. For those accustomed to in-person meetings, the shift to online, well, everything, has been a challenge. But video conferencing is here to stay and introduces a new element to the modern workplace. In fact, Forbes reports 80% of leaders say video conference is now the go-to form of communication amongst internal teams and clients.

We KNOW effective communication is vital in today’s hybrid workforce, but what does this mean for virtual interactions? For one, it’s imperative we know how to act and look during a video conference, regardless of who the participants are. Let’s look at some video conference tips.

PREPARING FOR THE VIDEO CONFERENCE.

Before we look at what gestures and actions work for video calls – and which don’t – let’s talk about virtual style. If you’ve ditched the business suit for the ever-popular jogger or athleisure look, you’re not alone. And while your favourite cozy sweatshirt is totally acceptable for a virtual happy hour with friends, it’s important you step it up a notch for video conferences with your co-workers or clients.

Here are a few video conference tips to help you get ready for your next conference call:

• Dress for the occasion, but don’t be afraid to add your own personal style.
• Look at the camera and adjust your posture to look more confident and prepared.
• Check the camera on your computer before joining a video call to make sure the lighting and framing are appropriate. The tip is to sit facing a natural light source with your camera at eye level.
• Consider how many people will be attending the meeting.
• Send the link to the video call and calendar notification with ample time for participants to respond.
• Have a brief agenda on hand to keep the meeting on track (for longer meetings, be sure to include small breaks).
• Mentally prepare yourself and don’t let technical difficulties frustrate you.
• Familiarize yourself with the video conferencing platform to ensure you know how to use the various meeting tools, like shared screens and keyboard shortcuts.

THE DOS AND DON’TS DURING VIDEO CONFERENCE.

Whether you’ve become a video conferencing pro or turning your video on for a meeting still makes your palms sweat, keep in mind the following dos and don’ts of virtual meetings which should help get you ready:

The Dos.

• Make sure your Internet connection is speedy before the call.
• Check that your video is on when joining the meeting.
• Stay present and listen while others are speaking. Try to look into the camera when you talk.
• Pay attention to your body language. Keep eye contact with your meeting participants throughout the call.
• Speak slowly and clearly.
• Pay attention to the time.

The Don’ts

• Avoid distractions and try not to multitask.
• Never interrupt others who are speaking.
• Never shout into the microphone or computer (it can cause
• distortion and is frankly unpleasant for others).
• Don’t move around or shuffle papers.
• Avoid background noise.

It’s incredible to think of how accustomed we’ve become to online meetings and remote work over the last year. Video conferencing has firmly planted its roots in the modern workplace, and it’s important we are putting our best foot (or face) forward and showing up for our teams. Looking for an intuitive video conferencing software to help you stay connected? Check out our services and let us know how we can help! And we’ll also give you the Video Conference Tips to make sure you always look and sound great!