Avoid these common mistakes when using your webcam on a video conference call
Prepare for a video conference as you would for an in-person meeting. This means that you
should avoid inappropriate attire and neglect your grooming and personal hygiene.
Much like your own personal appearance which should be polished and professional, the
place where you’re meeting from should also mirror that look. Choose a place that looks clean
and neat, and free from interruptions.
So there are no excuses for showing up late to the video conference. Since you will be
appearing on video, avoid looking rushed or flustered, and project a cool, calm and collected
image. Making it a point to sit in front of your computer at least 10 minutes ahead of the video
conference usually helps. Then, you can look over the final preparations for the meeting, and
clear your mind of anything else before attending. By doing this, you will look like not only are
you prepared, but also in control of the meeting.
How to avoid it: Mind your manners at all times while on camera; e.g., don't eat or chew gum
during your video conference. Also try to avoid yawning, crossing your arms, looking from
side to side or rocking your chair. Remember that you are on video and even if you aren’t one
of the main speakers in the meeting, people could be paying attention to you. It helps to think
that since you are on camera, people are watching, so you should avoid any embarrassing
behavior at all costs.
It’s very tempting to tune out and work on something else when a topic that seems irrelevant
to you is being discussed. Remember that not only can people hear you typing, but on a video
conference they can also see it. So avoid appearing inconsiderate and impolite, and pay
attention to the video conference at all times while it’s going on. Keep in mind that you never
know when you’ll be asked for your input, so it’s best to just stay focused on the meeting at all
times to avoid being caught doing something else