Zoom. Hangouts. Teams. At this point, many of us have had meetings or calls conducted via one (if not all!) of these videoconference services for work. Even if you have not, discussion around video meetings, specifically video call tips, has made its way to the news and pop culture. Everything from unintentional video call intrusions to some embarrassing behavior (i.e. do NOT use the restroom even if you think you are on mute!) to discomfort with technology, it seems like there are stories galore.
Functionality and savvy aside, video calls can also uncover other discomfort—around appearance on camera, home set up, or other confidence issues. Here are 5 video call tips to help you move past fear and discomfort and let your best shine on video!
Tip #1 Dress for success
Life isn’t a fashion show. That’s true but for video calls, your outfit can be the key to unlocking your confidence. Now, it is more than just the attire. It’s the overall vibe of the call. Are your fellow participants more formal or more relaxed? Even though it is only from the waist up that you have to worry about, I strongly suggest that you consider your full-length appearance. Even if I’m rocking sweatpants, they are clean, not wrinkled and not too baggy. Allow me to expound further, I am a freelance writer, so when I meet with my editorial and writing team, we are a relaxed group and individual style is celebrated. This means sweatshirt, headbands, hoop earrings, are all welcomed!
In another scenario, let’s say I’m meeting with a consulting client. For those sessions, I borrow from my former in-office looks—blouses, blazer, jewelry, etc. Why? Even though there isn’t a dress code, these are the looks that make me feel most confident on camera in respect to the audience. So dress for success is dependent on your confidence and the overall demeanor of the fellow video participants. Have a happy color? Wear it. Even if it is an accessory, something that makes you happy will allow you to shine.
Bonus video call tips
- You don’t need a fancy set-up but your visual background does matter.
- Make sure you have good lighting
- Keep something nearby that makes you happy. For me, it’s a plant and colorful desk items regardless of whether it’s my desk or a kitchen table. Surround yourself with things that make you happy! It makes a world of difference.
Tip #2 Use your words wisely
It’s a call. Words are often used, right? But the beauty of a video call is that there are multiple ways to communicate. There’s the video component and there’s also chat. Shy introverts, let’s unite! There will be instances where you only can participate speaking via video (think staff meeting or meetings with a smaller turnout) and in those cases, just take a deep breath, turn off your video camera for 30 seconds even, and then rejoin with your thoughts. If it’s a larger meeting, chat is the perfect way to supplement on-camera presence yet still convey engagement.
Having pre-planned speaking points can be a game changer regardless of how the conversation turns.
-What Nia Knows
Another way to project confidence is be equipped with points to contribute. Now I have struggled with this—not because I didn’t have anything to say but because psychological safety was often missing. The other participants either already formed an unspoken alliance and/or everyone was clamoring to be on the mic. Throw in some other demographic issues (i.e. lack of racial or gender diversity) and even a virtual call can be draining. Having pre-planned speaking points can be a game changer regardless of how the conversation turns.
Which leads me to my next point…
Tip #3 Preparation is everything
Believe it or not, video call participation is very similar to a public speech or presentation. Even when you are not speaking, your projection and presence matter because YOU ARE ON CAMERA. So whether for a meeting with colleagues, a virtual social gathering, or a large learning event, think about two things:
- Envisioning success-What you hope to get from the call? What would winning presence or engagement look like? What steps are within your sphere of control to achieve it?
- Putting your best you forward- Speaking points, attire, and mindset all matter here. Along with envisioning success, you have to operate with a winning mindset that your participation and engagement add value (even in those dreaded meetings that could’ve been an email…or less 😊)
Even when you are not speaking during a virtual meeting, your projection and presence matter because you are on camera.
-What Nia Knows
Beyond video call tips
For all of these tips and strategies, there are caveats or unique factors. The above advice is meant to be something that inspires confidence from within. From my personal experience, I’ve found that when I’ve followed these three steps, it helps tremendously, extenuating factors aside. If you’re looking for more remote work-life balance tips, be sure to check out this article.
So let’s chat. What holds you back on a video call? Do you have any go-to strategies to help you harness your confidence and leverage your strengths on a video call? Share it below in the comments and let’s continue the conversation on Facebook. Be sure to pin this for later via Pinterest!
In wellness & community,
Nia