Presenting to audiences, or hosting your meetings can seem an uncomfortable memory. Cramming into a booked room for exactly 54 minutes of powerpoint and conversation before the next queue of colleagues are peering through the door, hot coffees balanced on laptop lids and hot phones held in tight grips. But now that we’re forced into remote working, it’s even more important to share and communicate; this means video conferencing and home broadcasts! Thankfully, we can use the technology in our homes, and we can even avoid the space/time limits of the real-world.

At first consideration, video-calling is a stressful necessity of remote working, but with a little advice, and some familiarisation, it can be a fantastic tool to engage with your colleagues or audience. Unsurprisingly, the average tech company client is not a tech expert, so after a few questions and calming a few nerves, the Trickbox team, in collaboration with video production company Proudfoot, decided to come up with some comprehensive advice. 

Follow the steps below to support you in setting up a professional video call;

You

  • * Neutral, solid-colours are best, avoid black, white and striped clothing
  • * Wear your ‘normal’ work clothes. Dress appropriately for your business, brand or message.
  • * Be aware of your behaviour. Even if you’re not watching your own video feed, other people will be.

Your Space

  • * To achieve the best lighting, always face a light source, such as a window, do not have one behind you.
  • * Be aware of the surroundings behind you, ensure your environment is clean and presentable.
  • * Choose a quiet location with no background noise.
  • * Have tea or water close by in case you find yourself getting thirsty in the middle of the conversation.

Lighting:  

Surroundings:  

Eye-level:  

Your Camera

  • * When using a phone or laptop, make sure it is fully charged.
  • * Ensure your camera is head-on and at your eye-level. If necessary prop it up on books.
    • * Avoid shaky footage by making sure your computer or device is on a stable desk/book pile.

Your Connection

  • * We strongly advise that you test your connection before the call. Go to your video call provider homesite and follow the links to test video and audio quality.
  • * When possible, establish your video conferencing connection several minutes before the meeting start time.
  • * Earbuds or headphones are preferable to avoid audio feedback and echo.