From the course: Time Management Tips

Stay engaged in video meetings

From the course: Time Management Tips

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Stay engaged in video meetings

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- Do you use video conferencing in your workplace? Many people do, yet also many people report that it's distracting and it's hard to actually have a productive meeting because of everything that's going on on the screen. I find that there are two places where we need to get the most from a video conference. One is how we prepare and the other is what we do during the conference itself. First, in the prepare part, we want to test the platform that we're going to use. We want to test the equipment we will be using, both video and audio. We also want to send clear instructions to everyone in advance about how to log in and access the platform. We also want to make sure that we're sitting in a chair and in a place where we are comfortable. You may be sitting there for a while and you want to make sure that you're relaxed and able to focus. Also, shut down any programs that are running perhaps in the background that might access data. This can actually gum up the flow of the video conference and make it harder to see people. And also have all the materials that you need on hand in advance, whether that's a report or even just a bottle of water. And finally, arrive early. That gives you time to log in and make sure everything is set up before the meeting begins. Now what about during the meeting itself? One tip is to move the screen where you're looking at people as close to the camera as possible. This makes it possible for you to look people in the eye or, at least, give them the illusion that you're making eye contact. Also, frame your head to the top of the camera screen. That way you're using all the space rather than putting it in the middle, which is a mistake many people make. Also, minimize or move into the background any program that might be distracting. We don't want to get our attention pulled away to a spreadsheet that's unrelated to the presentation at hand. And also, imagine yourself in the room with people. That will make it easier for you to give body language and pay attention to the body language of others that may be relevant during the presentation. And finally, if you're the meeting leader, as much as possible ask questions of all meeting participants. That will help them feel like they have something to say and want them to stay more involved in the meeting. We can make video conferences as effective as in person meetings. All it takes is a little tweak here or there and a change of mindset.

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