As the world adjusts to the changing times it’s likely that you’ve been doing a bit more video conferencing tan before. If this is the case, chances are that you’ve experienced a few woes using these new platforms. After all, who has not forgotten to unmute their mic?

Well, I go your back! And here I share some tips to help you have a more enjoyable video conferencing experience.

Choose a well lit and quiet location

Probably the most important thing you can do before you hit the connect button on any conferencing application is to look for a comfortable, quiet and well lit location. This will ensure that you have proper illumination so that your video is clear to others, it will also ensure that you have limited distract tons and you will be comfortable. If you don’t have a well lit location, be sure to bring it a lamp or light that can help for the call.

Position your camera at eye level

If you can, make sure that your camera is at eye level and not too high or too low. The position of the camera determines where your eye sight appears to be directed at on other people’s video. It’s important for you if you’re the speaker to direct your eye contact close or near the camera so that others get the impression that you’re directly addressing them. This will immediately make you a more engaging speaker.

Test your audio beforehand

Theres nothing more frustrating for meeting attendees than a very loud or extremely low volume speaker. Plus, you want to be sure that everyone can hear you so that you can deliver the message and be effective. If you’re in the audience and there is something wrong with the sound it’s OK to politely express that either by opening your mic and saying something or by typing in the chat box.

Know the features and buttons of the platform

Every application is different, but they do have similar layouts and it’s important for you to understand where you can find the mute button and the video button. These become very important for when you’re interacting and participating in these meetings. Remember to signal if you have a question and always unmute before speaking. If you’re just joining in, make sure you’re muted and that your video looks good to others.

Dress as if you we’re in a person-to-person meeting

The same etiquette principles apply in virtual meetings as in in-person meetings. Often people relax because they’re in the comfort of their own home, but wearing a robe or pajamas to a business meeting is not appropriate in the virtual world or in person. It’s OK to not wear full attire as long as the visible part of your body is well dressed. This says a lot about your person and the seriousness the meeting.

Avoid distractions and focus

Whether you’re a speaker or in attendance in a virtual room it is very easy to get distracted and start multitasking during the video conference. So, close other apps and put your personal devices away so that you can focus on the task at hand. It will make you a better listener and audience member.

Try to keep chidden away, but don’t stress

How many times have we seen children barge into a room when someone is having a virtual meeting? Or how many times have we seen pets distract the speaker in a video conference? Unfortunately, this is one of the drawbacks of working from home so if you can make sure that your door is locked or someone can hang out with your children and/or pets. If you can’t, then don’t worry. If it happens, I’m sure people will be OK its it and find it humorous.

There are many more things you can do to enhance your virtual conference experience but a rule of thumb is to apply the same etiquette principles in the virtual space as you would in the in-person setting. If you do this, you will be better off and avoid one of the common pitfalls of video conferencing.

What are some tips you would add to this list?