Don’t Be a Vidiot: Tips for Communicating in a Remote World

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Please note that while the shortcuts and settings mentioned below are specific to Zoom, the digital communication tips referenced in this blog are universal for whatever video conference platform you choose.

COVID-19 transformed a vast majority of office workers into stay-at-home workers. Instead of being united by water cooler talk and endless hours in conference rooms, workers are now bound by instant messaging apps and countless hours of video conferencing.

Communicating remotely is and will always be important as we navigate a digital world. The smallest of details can improve the quality of your digital interactions. So as we see it, there’s no better time to share some remote communication tips and tricks. The Noble Studios team came together for a little refresher presentation on what we lovingly call “how not to be a vidiot.”

General Video Conferencing Tips

Whether you’re using Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams or Slack calls, it’s important that you can confidently navigate a successful remote work setup that works for you. Here are some of our general recommendations for video conferencing tools.

  • Turn on your video. Research shows that connecting with people is easier than audio-only communication when you can actually see someone.

  • As a common courtesy to others, mute yourself when not speaking or when entering a virtual meeting to limit the number of external distractions. Even the sound of you typing on your keyboard can be distracting for others.

  • If your camera looks grainy, chances are you probably need more light.

  • Try to keep the camera directly in front of you, at eye level or slightly higher.

  • Look into the camera as often as possible when someone else is speaking.

  • Clean your camera lens.

  • Test your setup before a call. Additionally, test your setup when using a new video conferencing platform or when undocking from your regular station.

  • Be in a quiet place for important meetings and ensure your housemates are aware of times when you need to be undisturbed.

  • Use your best judgment when it comes to attire. We know it might be tempting to showcase your Tiger King pajamas to your workmates, but maybe save the reveal for your family Zoom instead.

Read the entire article at Noble Studios: https://noblestudios.com/remote-communication-tips-and-tricks

Chris Ewing