While there are many video tutorials and helps for making your Video Chat successful and not overwhelming...
Below are a few simple general tips beyond the “technical” ones that can get you off to a great start.
1. Prepare your chat space
- Collect what you will be needing: Meeting invitation, Agenda/Meeting notes, pen, paper for notes, drink.
- Clear your camera space: check what will be seen, eliminate distractions and things you do not want seen.
- Lighting: Light your face and eliminate back lighting
- Background Noise: Check for sounds your microphone will pick up, (running fans, tv/radio, vocal pets)
2. Dress for the meeting to be seen
- You want to look good and appropriate.
- In event of interruption, emergency, or a need to get up or move; activities will be seen in the camera.
3. Do a test run
- If you are using zoom or some other connection, you may need to do a onetime download or app plug in
- Try your connection early to allow time for any set-up or time to read instructions.
- You can test your audio and video to set suitable levels.
4. Learn how to MUTE
- Know how to Mute/Unmute both your video and audio
- Best practice is to have your audio MUTED when you are not talking.
- Muting your Video is advisable if an emergency happens you have to respond to should not be on camera.
- Always consider your words, gestures and tones in this open communication format.
5. Delays, Silence, Disconnects
- There is normal delay when switching focus between people chatting. Allow time for this.
- Silence does not indicate an internet drop or disconnect, give it time and watch for messages.
- If you do get disconnected, you may to do simple reconnect or rejoin.
- Give the moderator time to allow your reconnection to be seen if you need to leave and rejoin.
6. Asking or Speaking
- In larger group, to help you have time to be heard you can use Chat or raise your hand.
- Chat is a side bar and can be private or in group (everyone). Use what is appropriate to not spam.
- Raising your hand is often a button click and allow time for the moderator to see it.
- When speaking, if you want to be certain to address someone, use their name or screen name.
7. Screen Sharing
- At times it is best to show something from your system as a power point or document. (if allowed by moderator)
- Allow time for it to come up for everyone and use the controls on the sharing screen for sound and controls
- You must stop sharing the screen to again be seen in the meeting.
- Be aware of what you share so that you do not display something that is personal or secure.
