7 TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL VIDEO CONFERENCES:  

Now that we’re all experts on how to video conference (missed part one? Click here) you may have realized that actually being on camera isn’t always second nature. This week’s topic is for you – 7 Tips for Successful Video Conferences. 

1. CHOOSE YOUR BACKDROP WISELY

Even though this is your home office, it is still your office and you want to do everything you can to make these video conferences as successful as possible. Make sure whatever is in the view of your webcam is not cluttered or distracting.  

A lot of video conferencing services have recently come out with virtual backgrounds or a blurred background which can be a great option. To change your background on zoom click here, or on teams, click here  

2. LIGHTING 

Lighting can make or break your call. If you are not properly lit on camera, you are not going to come across as trustworthy or friendly. This probably won’t help you sell anything. You wouldn’t have a face to face meeting in a dark closet – video conferencing shouldn’t be any different.  

Make sure your face has appropriate lighting. Face a window, place a lamp on your desk or as explained in this video, use a construction light with a cloth cover in a pinch. If you are one of the lucky ones with a window, make sure you’re facing it and not in front of it. 

3. WHAT TO WEAR

Again, “home office” isn’t an excuse for a lack of professionalism. If you want to be taken seriously, dress like it. Not only will this help your appearance on camera but it will help you feel more confident. Take a shower, brush your teeth and put on a nice shirt!  

4. CAMERA PLACEMENT 

This one is important. First, choose which webcam you are going to use. As mentioned in part one if you have a modern laptop, the built-in webcam you have should work just fine. If you would like something more clear and higher quality, this LogiTech is a great option. 

Understanding where your webcam is located is crucial. Place some books under your laptop to bring it to eye level. Eye contact is important! Having your camera at a higher angle is always preferable. 

5. WHERE TO LOOK 

This is potentially the hardest thing to do on video. When you look at the screen, you are not making eye contact with the person on the other side of the screen. It is crucial that you at the camera itself. Place a sticky not or something near your camera to remind you to continually look at it and not the screen. Eye contact is everything when selling!  

6. USE MUTE 

We’re all working from home these days which comes with its own challenges. Kids, spouses and pets are all sharing our space so sometimes, noise is out of our control. When you’re not talking, use mute to avoid any unnecessary distractions.  

7. CREATE YOUR SPACE 

Again, we’re all working from home so this one can be hard. Do your best to find a space that you can't be interrupted or distracted. If you’re at home with your spouse and kids, do your best to work together to time block your calendar together. When you have important meetings, ask for the time interrupted. We are all in this together right now, and thank goodness, people are understanding. Just do the best you can!  

8. (BONUS) HAVE FUN! 

This one might be the most important. Chances are, if this feels awkward for you, it probably does for the person on the other side of the camera as well. Don’t be afraid to be more conversational than normal. Ask questions, get people involved and this will become more natural. Be yourself - that’s always the best version.  

As always, WealthVest exists to provide effective training resources for the modern financial professional. If you would like more tips on how to continue to run business in this crazy time, help your clients retire comfortably or any digital marketing tips, reach out to our wholesalers below. We look forward to working with you.