Once you know what you want to say, set yourself up to say it well. Here are a few things to help you rock your next virtual meetup:
• Find your light: Set up in a well-lit area with the light mainly on your face, so people can see you and your expressions clearly. Make sure any windows are in front of you… if they’re in the background, you’ll look like a silhouette.
• Create a set: Check your background to make sure there is nothing distracting and let others in your home know when you’re live so they don’t wander in unaware. Or in a state of undress. In Zoom, you can also create virtual backdrops for privacy with templates from services like Canva.
• Hit the right angle: Know where your camera is on your laptop or phone and raise it to eye level. I put my laptop on a box or use a mount for my phone or tablet. And remember to look at the camera when you’re speaking – not the display. People pay attention when you’re looking at them… looking into the camera is like looking into their eyes. Besides, the last thing you want is a view up your nose – nobody looks good from that angle.
• Be heard: Pick a quiet place if possible or use a headset with a microphone to reduce background noise (like AirPods or a gaming headset). It will keep distractions down and the focus on you.
• Run a test: Log on early or try out the platform beforehand if you’re unfamiliar with it. Understanding its functionality and using it with ease will ensure that you pop up on time and avoid any frustration or interruption during the meeting.
And most of all, go easy on yourself and others… do your best to be your best, but understand that few people are operating optimally right now and we all could use some patience and grace.