Who hasn’t been in the middle of a video conference call when all of a sudden, the video freezes?
Or the sound disappears?
Or a new person starts talking on the call and you have no idea who they are, because they didn’t introduce themselves?
I know it happens, because it happened to me again this week.
Frustrating, isn’t it?
In this infographic from Quill, you’ll find helpful advice on how to reduce and eliminate those issues before, during, and after your next video conference call.
While I thought most of the tips were spot on, I disagree with the suggestion to not take notes.
Rarely do people return to a recording to get notes and action items. I recommend someone is identified before the call to take notes during the call.
If you prefer, check out the text version of the infographic.
How To Make Your Next Web Conference Isn’t a Complete Failure
What to do Before the Call
- Install the video conferencing software you plan to use ahead of time
- Wear headphones
- Use a grounded, high-speed Internet connection
- Shut down other applications and programs
- Find a quiet, comfortable space with minimal distractions
- Find good lighting
- Open your presentation materials beforehand
- Send pre-call materials to all participants
What to do During the Call
- Be mindful of your body, hands, and face
- Start every call with quick introductions
- Quickly cover the meeting agenda
- Choose one person to host the meeting
- Record the meeting rather than take notes
What do to After the Call
- Reiterate agreed-upon action items
- Summarize the highlights of the call
How and Why You Should Use an External Webcam in Conference Calls
Compared to an embedded webcam, external webcams offer better:
- Resolution
- Speed
- Fluidity
- Color balance
- Noise reduction
In addition:
- A wider-angle lens to capture more people in the frame
- Higher-quality video because the camera size doesn’t have to be small enough to fit inside a computer screen
- Seamless integration with many video conferencing platforms
Tips for using a webcam:
- Test your camera before meetings
- Avoid sitting under overhead lighting
- Lights should come from in front and behind the webcam
- Make sure the camera is at a natural distance from your face
- Remove clutter and any other distractions in the background
- Angle the lens so it’s at eye level
