In our new Covid ‘work from home’ world remember the Professor in Seoul who became an overnight “work-from-home” sensation live on BBC news…
Here are some thoughts from someone now being “encouraged” to work virtually.
Practice the tech you are using before the call— if you’re new to doing this whether it’s Skype or Zoom or hangouts or webex… it will inevitably be the one you have NOT downloaded and don’t know how to use. know how to control the features. Sit close to the screen. Your face should fill most of it.
Put a post-it next to the camera… draw a face on the post-it, When you’re talking, spend some time looking at the post-it not the screen. You’ll appear more earnest and honest this way.
Use an external microphone or headset it reduces the ambient noises of the world Especially when your daughter and son burst in
When you’re not talking HIT MUTE then act like you’re fully engaged. Nod your head. Focus on the screen. Don’t get up to make a cup of tea right after you finish talking… act like you’re in an ‘in-person’ meeting.
Consider where you are- don’t walk & Skype you’ll end in a drain- don’t prop the laptop in your lap. Don’t sit with the window or a light behind you. Create a professional background even though it’s the spare room.