If you’re working from home during this time, you’ve probably already had to weather a few video meetings. While we’re all going through this challenging time and trying to keep business running smoothly, video meetings are one of the best ways to stay connected! But there are definitely a few things you can work on polishing up for more streamlined meetings.
Set up ahead of time
Between your computer’s microphone and camera, there’s a good chance that you could experience problems with either. Be sure you’re familiar with whatever program your company uses for meetings so that you can easily troubleshoot and not hold up the rest of the team.
In addition, if your computer often needs rebooted, you may want to go ahead and do this 15-20 minutes before the meeting to try to get ahead of any issues.
Pick a distraction-free area
As you’ve probably been seeing on social media lately, there are plenty of distractions to working from home—kids, pets, partners, etc. We all know that life is a little hectic right now, and surely your team understands, but it’s always a good idea to pick a distraction-free area for meetings—even if it’s just to keep yourself more sane!
Look into the camera
While video meetings are a great way to stay connected, they can also be a bit distracting. If you don’t do much video conferencing, it can feel pretty weird at first, and you may find yourself looking at the people more than you’re paying attention to what they’re saying.
Try not to look around the screen or off to the side, and instead look into the camera. This will let your team know that you’re paying attention and not getting distracted. I mean, do you really want to be in a meeting where no one is looking at each other?
Keep it professional—at least on top
You know what we’re talking about… the cardigan on top and pajama bottoms down below. After all, what they can’t see won’t hurt them, right? If you want to keep it cozy on the bottom, go for it! Just make sure you look put together from the waist up.
If you’re working from home for an extended period of time like many are right now, it’s important to create a new routine for yourself and find ways to stay energized. Getting ready for the day, or even just for a video meeting, is a great way to keep yourself accountable.
Make sure you hear from everyone
Conference calls of any kind, whether video or just on the phone, can get a little hectic. We’ve all had that experience where two or three people are trying to talk at once, and then they do an awkward dance to try to let others talk. Instead of letting everyone run wild with their responses, it could be a good idea to have a moderator, or someone whose job is to make sure everyone shares their responses.
Keep meetings as short as possible
As we’ve already mentioned, it can be a little bit of a challenge to focus your attention during a video meeting. Keep these meetings as short as possible and you might find that you get more done with a strict time limit!
Learn More About The NEW Center
Events and conferences may be on hold right now, but The NEW Center has so much to offer you when things are looking a little more normal. If your team needs somewhere to meet off-site for quarterly planning or for a big conference, keep The NEW Center in your back pocket for planning!