Enhance Your Virtual Meeting Experience with Simple Adjustments

Mastering virtual meeting etiquette is paramount in our digital age, where video conference platforms like Zoom and Teams help us connect with coworkers, friends, family, and professionals. However, many people still struggle with how to present themselves effectively on video calls. A few simple changes can significantly improve your video conferencing experience.

You don’t need expensive equipment to look and sound your best during these online meetings – just some awareness and preparation can do the trick. As a Financial Advisor who frequently conducts virtual client meetings, I can attest to the difference these small adjustments can make.

Improve Your Video Call Lighting

Lighting is crucial in determining how you appear during a video call. The good news is it’s easy to improve, with one simple rule: place your light source in front of you, not behind you. If a bright window or lamp is behind you, you’ll appear as a shadowy silhouette, making it challenging for others to see your expressions and engage naturally.

Before you jump into your next meeting, take a moment to check your camera preview. If your face appears dark, adjust your chair or setup until the light is in your favor.

Optimize Your Camera Angle

Camera angle has a significant impact on how you’re perceived during a video call. Place your camera at or slightly above eye level and sit about an arm’s length away from it. A simple stack of books under your laptop or propping up your phone on a stable surface can make all the difference.

Ensure you’re comfortably framed on the screen, with your full face, shoulders, and upper chest visible without leaning in or squinting.

Maintain Camera Stability

In contrast to phone calls where we often walk around, it’s essential to keep your device stable during virtual meetings. What may seem like minor movement to you can disrupt the viewing experience for others on the call. Choose a comfortable chair, place your device on a stable surface, and settle in before the meeting starts.

Create a Personal Connection by Looking at the Camera

Looking directly into the camera occasionally during a video call can create the impression of eye contact, making the conversation feel more personal and engaging. You don’t need to do this continuously, but being aware of it can enhance the connection during your conversation.

Ensure a Quiet Environment for Virtual Meetings

Background noise can be distracting during virtual meetings. A quiet location, closed doors and windows, and use of earbuds or headphones can significantly improve audio quality. Make sure the focus is on your voice rather than any potential background noise.

Take Time to Prepare Before the Virtual Meeting

Joining a few minutes early can give you time to check your setup:

• Ensure your lighting is adequate

• Adjust your camera angle and framing

• Test your microphone

• Close unnecessary programs or browser tabs

• Prepare any necessary documents or questions

These brief moments of preparation can make your meetings more effective, allowing more focus on what matters most.

Simple Adjustments Can Elevate Your Virtual Meeting Experience

Even if technology isn’t your forte, a few tweaks can improve your virtual meeting experience – you don’t need to set up a home TV studio. The goal is clear visuals, clean audio, and comfortable conversation.

Please reach out if you need assistance setting up before a virtual meeting. We’re always happy to help.

Bronwyn L. Martin is a Financial Advisor and Chartered Financial Consultant with Martin’s Financial Consulting Group, a financial wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Service, LLC. in Kennett Square, and Havre de Grace, Md. She specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for over 25 years. Connect with her: www.ameripriseadvisors.com/bronwyn.x.martin