Tips for Navigating Video Meetings

Video calls have become the norm, whether you’re working remotely, catching up with friends, or trying to explain to your grandma how to unmute herself. To be honest, some video meetings feel like an endurance test. Bad lighting, poor audio, and distracting backgrounds can make them unbearable. Do you want to level up your video conferencing game? Here are five tips to help you look and sound like the professional you are.

Check All of Your Tech Before the Call

Nothing derails a meeting faster than the dreaded “Can you hear me now?” moment. Before hopping on, test your microphone, camera, and internet connection. A quick pre-call check ensures you’re not the one holding up the meeting while frantically troubleshooting. If your Wi-Fi is acting up, plugging in an ethernet cable to your PC can work wonders.

Good Lighting is a Game-Changer

Ever been on a call where someone looks like a shadowy figure from a crime documentary? Don’t be that person. Natural light is your best friend, but if you’re in a dim space, using a lamp placed in front of you is a good idea. Ring lights aren't just for Instagram influencers, they work wonders for making you look clear and professional.

Keep Your Background Distraction-Free

We understand you think your pet is adorable, and your bookshelf makes you look well-read. But cluttered or overly busy backgrounds can pull focus from what you’re actually saying. Use a neutral backdrop or a simple virtual background if your space is a mess. Modern video conferencing solutions have a lot of different options. Choose one that fits the meeting you are attending. No sales call or call with a customer about a complaint is the appropriate place for you to look like a talking llama.

Mute When You’re Not Speaking

Background noise is the ultimate video conferencing villain. Whether it’s barking dogs, keyboard clacking, or someone crunching chips, it’s distracting. If you’re not talking, hit mute. Your colleagues will thank you, and you’ll avoid being the person who doesn’t realize their mic is on.

Look at the Camera, Not Yourself

It’s tempting to stare at your own video feed (we all do it), but maintaining eye contact with the camera makes you seem more engaged. It also keeps you from obsessing over your hair or that weird thing your eyebrow is doing. If it helps, hide your self-view so you can focus on the conversation instead of your face.

Follow these tips, and your video calls will feel less like a struggle and more like a smooth, professional interaction. For more great tips and tricks, visit our blog.