Working remotely has become more accepted over the last few years. More and more companies make hybrid working possible and since the start of COVID-19, working from home really took off. This is not surprising since working from home was by far the safest option to keep people healthy and productive. But now more companies are opening their doors again, it is hard to imagine people just returning to their ‘regular’ work schedules. Remote work is here to stay.
One of the reasons that hybrid working is such a success these last few years is that the technology has really caught up with our needs. It is now easier than ever to stay in touch with colleagues and to work together on projects from different locations. Through platforms like Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Zoom, it is possible to virtually attend daily meetings, catch up with people, share videos with co-workers, and discuss ongoing projects. But you do need to have a decent setup when working remotely to be able to get all the work done and stay in touch with colleagues and superiors. That is why we will give you 5 tips for better quality Zoom calls.
- Check your internet speed
To be able to work successfully from home, you need a proper internet connection at all times. There is nothing more annoying than a failing internet connection. Make sure that your internet is good enough for a steady connection during online meetings. Check the subscription you have. Is it optimal for the current use? And is the router in the best possible place? If not, update your subscription or your equipment for a better connection at home.
- Use a selfie clip-on ring light
Proper lighting is essential during online meetings and Zoom calls. The lighting affects how you are perceived on camera and it can make or break your presentation. By using a selfie clip-on ring light, you make sure that you always have the best possible lighting for any online gathering or meeting. The ring light is made up of LEDs. This ring is placed on your phone, tablet, or computer, around the camera, and is clipped on easily. When you turn the light on, you have the best lighting you can imagine without having unwanted shadows or lines. You can adjust the settings of the light to your liking and you are good to go. It is a piece of cake and you can bring the ring light with you wherever you go.
- Use headphones
When you are in an online meeting, it is always smart to use headphones or earbuds. It improves the sound and it makes it a lot easier to work from home. Especially when more people are working from the same home, and the kids are at home as well, a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. It makes it possible to hear your co-workers better and it helps you to focus more during meetings and working hours.
- Use the mute button
Most virtual conference tools offer a mute function during calls. This is with good reason: nobody wants to hear someone else breathe loudly, eat an apple or discuss what’s for dinner with their partner. Multi-tasking has been the magic word during this pandemic when working from home, but let’s not include the whole office. But don’t forget to press un-mute when you are speaking.
- Be on time
Even though you aren’t meeting up with people in real life, it’s still a meeting and your presence is still required. Therefore the rules of any other meet-up still apply: dress for the occasion, listen when someone else is speaking and be on time for each meeting. Too many people consider Zoom calls and conferences as less official, but it’s still a set appointment with other people. Not showing up on time is affecting someone else negatively.