A LOT CAN GO WRONG WHEN YOU ARE LIVE ONLINE

The coronavirus forced us to move online in a big way. Placing many in very unfamiliar territory. Suddenly we are sharing videos, conducting meetings, presenting webinars, and lectures online. That too from home, a surrounding that provides perhaps too wide and detailed a  view of our personal life. In a way, social distancing has increased our physical space at the cost of our personal space.


There are so many videos on everything that can go wrong, from pets walking across and other more embarrassing stuff, to family members walking past in underwear, even one somewhere of a participant using the loo online (oops ...)

Here is one that is less scandalising but instructive.

There is a lot of advice from professionals, on avoiding some pitfalls and improving the overall quality of online interactions.

I have a list that has worked for me.

• Try and keep your camera at eye level, not only it helps by presenting you as looking directly at the viewers, but it also avoids unflattering views. Try looking into your camera positioned at different levels offline, to get an idea. If you don't like what you see, it is most likely others won't either.
• Check out your background. I feel the safest bet is to have your back to the wall, so no accidental views of family members. Also, there is really no need to broadcast the layout and contents of your home on the web.
• It is possible to accidentally turn on the back camera, so the best bet is to cover it.
• Use a light source that is in front of you.
• Use headphones and a mic to reduce the possibility of ambient sounds getting through.
• If you are not the presenter, you have the option of turning your video/ audio or both off.
• Never a good idea to be wearing something you wouldn't otherwise wear to a meeting. (in other words, get up and change to work clothes)
• If you are using your mobile, be mindful of where you walk with and position it.
• Finally, if you haven't done it already look for how-to- videos on web meetings. 

Flip the switch - polished events on webcam from the Bright Talk is a good video to watch.

Wishing you interesting, instructive and captivating presentations... 

I look forward to hearing your suggestions and thoughts,  please share as a comment or an email...