Tips for Remote Meetings / Video Conferencing

In 2017 MarketWatch predicted 50% of the workforce would be working remotely by now. They were wrong. An unforeseen pandemic has made remote working an essential component for much of today's workforce. Many, who had not worked this way previously, are being thrown into this method of working. They need a little support in getting on top of their video conferencing game.

Here are some tips

Video

While some people may question the use of video, it is an important tool to help people who are apart feel connected. 

• Enter the conference with video on 
• After initial greeting, it's fine to turn off your video if you don't want to be on camera the whole time. This can also help with bandwidth.
• If you will be talking for more than a quick response, put your video back on.
• Look into the camera and make sure it is framed correctly.
• Turn the video back on when signing off.
• Dress for work, at least from the waist up. You don't want to look like you just got out of bed.

Microphone

Even if you are not speaking and even if you think you are being quiet, these tips are important to keep in mind so you don't distract and annoy other participants.  

• Enter conference with mic off.
• Most microphones can pick up minor background noises, like coughs, sneezes, or typing.
• Unmute only when you are speaking.

Roles

Assigning roles will help your remote meetings run more smoothly.

• Facilitator
• Chat monitor 
• Note taker(s) 
• You may want to assign more than one note taker. 
• Share the link to a shared notes document at the start of the meeting and let everyone have edit access so they can share relevant materials or documents there.