As one of the millions of Americans who work from home due to the coronavirus pandemic, you probably participate in Zoom meetings or calls every workday. At Arnold Insurance, we understand the transition from in-person to video conference meetings can be tough. We have been there ourselves. Here are our five best tips for Zoom to help you work from home like a boss!
Keep Your Workspace as Professional as Possible
You work in your home, but you also live in your home. That can make it challenging to present a professional background to others through a computer screen. We recommend choosing an area of your home that family members or roommates don’t use and giving it a quick once-over before you sit down at the computer.
The last thing you want is for others to see your spouse’s dirty laundry or your kids’ messy bedroom. Remember that seeing clutter can distract others from the topic of the meeting. You might be amazed at how easy it is to transform your home to a professional appearing office by dedicating just a few minutes to cleaning up first.
Dress Like a Professional Too
While a three-piece suit for men or an expensive pantsuit for women isn’t necessary when you work from home, you don’t want to show up for a Zoom meeting in pajamas either. Be sure to take time on your appearance just as you would if you still reported to the office. Dressing professionally sends a message that you’re ready to start working and take your job seriously. Although we can’t quite explain why, dressing in even casual business attire can also give you a productivity boost.
Remember Your Manners
One of the most often overlooked tips for Zoom is to continue to show others the same courtesy online that you would in person. Making it a point to be on time shows respect for other people’s time.
You also want to minimize distractions to help keep the meeting on schedule. If you’re someone who likes to check your phone frequently, don’t forget to turn the sound down and place it out of reach until the meeting is over. It is also a good idea to make sure pets or kids won’t bother you during the meeting so you can provide your full attention.
Choose a Well-Lit Location
There is no question that seeing people on a computer screen is not the same as sitting across the table from them in a conference room. Your co-workers can look blurry and pixelated even with the best Internet connection. You can do your part to make sure everyone can see you by choosing a spot in your home with bright lighting.
If you cannot locate a well-lit area for your Zoom meeting or call, try sitting near a window to let in some natural light. Be sure to ask others how well they can see you before settling in for the meeting. Keep in mind that having the sun behind you will make it difficult for you to see your computer screen and for your co-workers to see you. Sunlight directly to the side or in front of you tends to work best for lighting purposes.
Feeling Frustrated? Trying Customizing Zoom Just for You
Maybe you have tried but just can’t create a professional looking background in the space where you and your family live. That’s okay. Zoom offers virtual backgrounds or you can even upload one you created yourself. Just try to have some fun with it and connect with your co-workers the best you can until you see each other in person again.
Happy Zooming from your friends at Arnold Insurance!
