800.921.9680 ▾ 
877.407.1249
Tips for Communicating More Effectively Through Video Conferencing
Tips for Communicating More Effectively Through Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is a great communication and collaboration tool that many businesses are incorporating into their business models. This essential tool serves as an excellent avenue for conducting business over distance, especially now that a vast majority of small businesses and enterprises have shifted their operations to hybrid work environments.
With video conferencing, businesses can reduce travel expenses, expand client outreach, increase engagement, and improve productivity. Your workforce will enjoy the immediacy of real-time conversations with customers whether they are at home or at the office. And you can host company huddles, town halls, or brainstorming sessions that include everyone, including employees and contractors who work remotely.
We understand that video conferencing is reaching the forefront of business correspondence, but also that video conferencing can still feel a little awkward sometimes. We would like to share some tips to ensure you're communicating effectively and getting the most out of your meetings.
Helpful Tips for Better Video Conferences
Make sure everyone knows how to use the technology. While platforms have become fairly ubiquitous, you should never assume that everyone knows how to use the technology in question. Make sure you onboard new employees, providing some quick training on how to use your company’s video conferencing platform of choice. Also, send short explainer videos to those you invite to participate in your calls. Just make sure nobody feels excluded or anxious due to discomfort with tech.
Encourage the use of cameras.
Studies have shown that engagement tends to be higher (and on sales calls, conversion rates go up) when all parties have their cameras on. Try to encourage everyone on the call to use their camera. Don’t hesitate to ask directly.
Limit the use of screen sharing. While it can certainly be useful to share the contents of your screen from time to time, doing so limits the extent to which participants can actually see each other. Try to keep screen sharing to an appropriate level.
Ask for permission before recording. If you decide that you need to record a video call, make sure you clearly explain why you’re doing so, and get clear verbal permission.
Write down names.
If you’re chatting with a room full of people, you may want to write down names during the initial introductions, just to avoid any awkward moments where you can’t remember exactly who you’re talking to! Also make sure that you ask questions to specific people, using their names; this is a great way to get more people engaged in the conversation!
Be clear about the purpose of the call. It’s always best to begin meetings with a quick summary of why you’re all on the line together. What’s the basic topic of the call? What are the key questions that need to be answered or problems that need to be solved? And what are some of the goals that you hope to accomplish before the meeting ends? Get everyone on the same page with regard to these action items and ensure that the meeting is focused and purposeful.
Face a light source.
In keeping with the previous point about keeping cameras on, be sure you’re situated in a way that makes it easy for other participants to see you. Generally, this is going to mean facing a light source, rather than having a light source behind you. Indirect or natural light can sometimes be good, too, especially as you seek to reduce glare.
Have good posture. You won’t be able to command the room if you’re slouching. When leading a video conference, we recommend either sitting up straight or standing.
Keep a smile on your face.
Let’s face it: Video conferences can sometimes feel like a drag. But even on the most pedestrian calls, your countenance can be hugely impactful. Keeping a smile on your face throughout the call is a great way to maintain engagement and positivity.
Questions About Video Conferencing?
If you’re ready to establish a robust and reliable video conferencing solution for your team, we’d love to chat. Our company provides proven, dependable telecommunication solutions for clients across the country, and we’d love to discuss the potential of becoming your telecommunications partner. Reach out to TelWare any time you’d like to chat.
To learn more about staying current with the latest communications technology, contact us at 1.800.921.9680 or email us at info@onecloud.com. OneCloud provides UCaaS solutions for businesses of all sizes. Manage calls, voicemails, business texts, video conferencing, and more on any device, and from any location.
