Thanks to the mighty webcam, Video meetings are a quintessential part of #WFH. It gives us the chance to have face-to-face contact online, but knowing the work etiquette around video calls can prevent costly & embarrassing slipups.
The list of recent, viral #Zoomfails is enormous. Wardrobe malfunctions, objectionable wall art, unmuted mics, and even🚽 nature's call on camera! Unfortunately, webcam disasters happen. In most cases, it is innocent fun and something we can laugh off. But, as you improve Presentation Skills be aware of potential pitfalls that are unique to video meetings.
Here are 8 webcam mishaps to avoid at any cost:
Potato Boss
Remember Lizet Ocampo- the infamous boss who was stuck in a potato filter? 🤣🥔Filters and backgrounds can be amusing. On the downside, however, filters and backgrounds can be hugely distracting and may not work as you imagine them to be. Always test it out before making it a default setting.
Peep Show
Working from home is challenging as we are sharing living spaces with family members. Avoid setting your camera near the bathroom or closets for obvious reasons. #privacy
Way too close
Sitting too close into the webcam is not glam. It exaggerates facial features and can be quite daunting for your audience. As a rule of thumb, try to position yourself in the center of the video frame to show your full face and shoulders. Preview your webcam before joining a meeting.
No Pants?
In a recent video meeting, as my client stood up to get some documents, he realized that his tight gym shorts were visible to all. He did have a smart business shirt on, but the unforgiving camera exposed the real truth. The lesson: Don't compromise on appearance. I have written about this in a separate blog post here.
Loo Breaks
Bio breaks are important. Just remember to cover to shut your camera as you head to the loo. Don't bring the camera along. The same rule applies to the mic.
Check Facial Expressions
A smile, a nod, a wink, a frown...each one of our facial expressions can non-verbally convey how we are feeling. These are visible on a camera and can set the tone for a meeting. In a business setting, I found a fantastic study that talks about the relationship between trustworthiness and facial expressions. Really powerful knowledge.
Light it Up
Webcams don't work well in dim light environments. Test and try different lighting sources till you find the most natural look. There is no need for fancy equipment - just some common sense. If you want to look better on camera, then check out this wonderful video from Gia Goodridge.
Screen sharing
Screen sharing is a potential slip-up. If you are presenting, make sure there is no sensitive material on your desktop or open files that no one else should see. Keep the presentation on the title slide and share the window only.
What did you think about this post? Let me know if you found any of the ideas helpful.
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