With technology today, we don’t have to be in the room with a group of people 
to have a successful conference. We have the ability to connect with multiple individuals from different parts of the world visually if we want. Collaborative communication has never been easier thanks to video conferencing. Lifesize Video Conferencing in particular offers the best video conferencing solution out there in regards to video quality, voice quality, and over ease of use – Which is exactly why we at Genesis are such loyal fans.
But having a successful video conference doesn’t just stop at the tools you use to have one. What matters just as much, if not more, is how you present yourself through video, and how your message is received on the other end.
Below we have provided 5 tips for proper video conferencing etiquette. By following these tips, you will always be presented as a well-put-together professional.
1. Dress like you would at the office
This isn’t a phone conference call where no one can see you. The point of video conferencing is to make it as if you are sitting right next to everyone else in the boardroom. So before you get on the conference call, make sure whatever you are wearing is what you would be wearing in the office. At least from the waste up. Conducting a video call in a bathrobe probably isn’t the best idea.
2. Look at the camera while talking
A lot of people have the tendency to look at the person on the screen or themselves (get over yourself)! While looking at the person on the screen feels normal because that is how we talk to people in real-life conversations, it doesn’t convey well for a video conference. Try your best to focus on the camera while you are speaking. This gives a better impression to your audience. Doing so will also keep you focused on the small camera lens, and will keep you from getting distracted.
3. Be mindful of your environment
I don’t know how many times I have been on a video or phone call conference in the past and struggled to hear the person or pay attention to what they were saying because I was distracted by other things going on behind them. It could because where that person is located, or it could be their pet dog that won’t stop barking. Distractions such as these are easily avoidable if you just considered your surroundings before joining in on a video conference. During an important video conference, you need to conduct your video call with focus and dedication – just like you would if you were in the same room as everyone else.
4. Don’t Forget About the Camera
This seems like a no brainer, but never forget that you are on camera. Conference calls can time to time be dull. But it’s beyond important to keep in mind that you are being watched. Don’t think that just because your time to speak is over means that you can relax! Stay committed to the video conference from beginning to end. That means no yawning, no texting, etc.
5. Make sure your video and audio components are working
Finally, make sure your camera and microphone are working properly. You can really hinder the productivity and effectiveness of your video or sound quality is bad. Of course, with Lifesize, that would never be the case! But just to be sure, always plan ahead of time and check your mic and camera and see that they are ready to go.
There you have it, 5 simple video conferencing rules to remember before each call. They are very simple but will keep your video conference productive and will allow you to maintain a good image with your fellow colleagues or clients!
Is video conferencing something your company does or is looking into? Check out LifeSize Cloud and see why it’s the perfect video conferencing solution on the market!