BC (Before coronavirus) I shied away from video conference meetings. The camera seems to show every blemish and I prefer to meet with people in person because it is easier to read their reactions, mood and energy. But, we (I) have to adapt because the use of video meetings is not going away anytime soon.
Inspiration for making video conversations work for me, came from my cousin, Chief Meteorologist, Kristin VanDyke (@kristianvandyke), who posted about broadcasting live from home while her baby is crying (in the background), her computer is glitching and her toaster is smoking. If that is not enough her ER doctor husband is quarantined. She laughed it off and kept broadcasting. The key to her success with her audience was getting them to feel that life may not be perfect but that she was getting it done in spite of a pandemic and that she is in it with us.
Striving for this “can-do” spirit is where we are now. We cannot control everything and that is okay. As we reach for actual control, we want to have the video attendees feel that we are in control (which is not the same as being perfect). By making the video meeting attendees feel like we are “all business” for work meetings or like we are “fun” for social meet-ups, we can make the experience work for us. Here are 4 easy tips collected from friends, leaders, and influencers to lead us to success:
Tip 1: Set Your Stage:
Purposely curate a stage for your meeting by checking out what is in the video frame. The success of your meetup starts with the tone you set with the background. For example, if you leave clutter in the background or even a trashcan, it will alter meeting attendees the opinion of what you are trying to get across.
Decide what you want the other meeting participants to feel during the meeting so that the total image puts them in the mood to receive your message. Using a plain white wall as a background is safe but stark. You can change the starkness by adding (if only just for the video) a lamp or photos. On a Zoom meeting this week, advocating about Child Online Safety, the Queen of Sweden had, as her “stage”, a painting, a flower arrangement and a small Swedish flag. Perfect for her message.
For social meet-ups with friends or family, I use a fun or comfortable setting. My latest “go-to” space is a lovely blue armchair in the corner of a spare bedroom. My stage is the back of the chair, lamp and wall. Friends feel like I am relaxed and it creates an intimate atmosphere.
Platforms such as Microsoft Meetings and Zoom have virtual backgrounds you can use. For work meetings, video participants may see that the background is computer generated and wonder what you are hiding.
Tip 2: Dress the Part:
Dress for what you want to get out of the meeting/meet-up. For work meetings, you want to present an “I’m getting things done” image and not lounging around all day. Wear clothes that you would wear to work. For the most part, the camera will be pointed above your torso. An outfit that needs shoes, a belt or palazzo pants to bring it all together will not work. Focus more on what is at your neck. Pick shirts/blouses with a higher neckline (nothing low-cut) or add a jacket or necklace. White, black and busy patterns do not work as well on camera.
For social videos, wear something festive, it will put you and your friends in the mood for fun and relaxation. While friends are not going to judge your sweats or yoga pants, especially if that is your current state of mind, know that putting on something fun will make you feel fun, even it it is a pair of funky earrings.
Tip 3: Fix Your Face:
My great grandmother rarely went far from her house. But, she got up every morning and put on her “face” (makeup) and her ear bobs (earrings) and dressed nicely. She said it made her feel alive and put together. This will make you feel better too. So, wear make up, even if it is minimal!!
Start with the eyes because they will show up most on camera. Use extra under eye concealer (to hide the “have not slept in nights look”), eyeliner and mascara. Lipsitck should be neutral with two exceptions: 1) if red just makes you feel good 2) if you have professional lighting. Add earrings to bring warmth to your face. Smooth down flyaway hair.
SMILE!! The camera will make you look harsh (you know that bXXch face) so try to always have a slight to full smile. Plus, smiling is good for the soul and will make others feel good. If your subject is serious maybe show minimal teeth.
Tip 4: Check Your Computer Camera and Lighting
Place the computer at eye level or slightly higher. Having your camera below your face can make your face look harsh or double chinned. Sonya Blade (@sonyab1ade), CEO and Influencer uses a stack of books to get to the right level. And when asked how she always looks flawless, even with little or no makeup, she says that lighting makes all the difference. Sonya likes to use a ring light in front of the computer. If you do not have a ring light try facing a window (but do not but it behind you). This will help defuse imperfections. She also notes that platforms like Zoom tend to smooth out the skin. Finally, look at the computer camera point not at your face.
These 4 tips will make it easier for you to get what you want out of video meetings/meet-up experiences and maybe you too will inspire someone.
Avery tip: When it is your first time using a new platform, test it at least 10 minutes before the start to identify any computer issues.
