A few months ago, group meetings would usually take place in a conference room around a table. Now every business has had to learn how to communicate via group video chats. For some industries this is nothing new, but for others it is a completely new way of holding a meeting and there is a learning curve.
Let us look at ways to make sure you make a good impression during business meetings, even if you are sitting at home looking at your screen.
Have proper lighting
You probably have heard the phrase “Lights, camera, action!” “Lights” goes first because a camera can only do so much with bad lighting.
Overhead lighting is the worst kind because it creates shadows under your eyes. Sitting behind a window is also not recommended as the sunlight will cause a bright glare. Instead, sit in front of the window so the light is to your advantage. To look your best, use soft light by placing them behind you on your left and right corners with a white background.
Have a good background
Speaking of backgrounds, you should still make the effort to clean up wherever you are during the call. A cluttered background will prove distracting for the people watching or in some cases may prove embarrassing. No one should see your pile of dirty underwear, and your boss may not be interested in seeing your poster of Baby Yoda.
Position your camera at a correct angle
Although you are not using an expensive camera on a tripod, you should still put some effort into placing it at the right angle to capture your face. Place your camera about an arm’s length away from you while making sure to give a bit of space between the top of your hair and the top of the frame. It should capture the triangle of your forehead to your shoulders in the frame.
Dress for the occasion
Tempting as it may be to stay in your pyjamas while working a home, you should clean up a little for a video call. Wear solid colours, wash your face, and brush your teeth in case you just had lunch and have spinach in your teeth. If the room is warm, don’t wear too many layers so you don’t start sweating.
Check your audio
It’s one thing to look good with the right clothing and lighting, but if no one can hear each other it won’t be much of a meeting. Everyone should keep their microphones muted unless it is their turn to speak, which will reduce the chances of background noises distracting participants during the call. You should also use headphones to make sure you can hear everyone and to block out any noises that might be around you.
