Tips for video conferencing

By Jorik Boot

Tips for video conferencing

The world has changed within a matter of weeks, forcing companies to digitalise rapidly. Many seem to have adapted quite well, but what if the excitement of working from home wears off? Read the tips below to learn the nuances of digital meetings and set your company up for success in the long run.  Feel free to download our full guide and adapt the presentation for internal use.

While the novelty of remotely working has everyone quite engaged, it seems like a matter of time before it wears off and people's attention drifts away. In that case, video conferencing will likely result in more inefficient meetings, unless you're aware of what new challenges it brings and how to overcome them.

First, let's consider that the current situation has forced organisations to adapt their basic work processes in a very short amount of time and under a lot of pressure. Many of these organisation are not digital natives, and therefore, many will not consider the nuances of digital meetings compared to regular meetings.

In the old situation, research showed that 9 out of 10 people daydream during regular meetings and that 73% of people admit to multitasking during regular meetings.

In the new situation, we add to this; the potential distractions from surroundings, the privacy of muting the microphone and turning the webcam off and the potential of technical difficulties and poor audio and video quality.

A recipe for disengagement and frustration.

Fortunately, it doesn't have to be like this. Some structure and discipline can increase productivity significantly and reduce meeting times considerably.

Here are some simple tips that are proven to work:

  • Be a few minutes early (this way, you can address possible technical difficulties).

  • Encourage everyone to always use video (82% of video users are less likely to multitask).

  • Be prepared (using an agenda can cut down meeting times by 80%).

  • Engage everyone involved in the call by specifically asking individuals for their feedback and questions.

  • Start the meetings when the most important people are present and record the meeting for anyone that is late.

If you follow these basic tips, you're setting yourself up for a lot more success, and you will be able to enjoy the benefits of digital meetings, like; enhanced work-life balance, increased productivity and higher employee retention.

Want to learn how to improve your digital meetings even further? Download our extended content offer to see how!

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Jorik Boot
Zooma's former resident Dutchman and intern from February - July 2020.
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