8 hacks for video calls
One tiny little thing I didn’t look forward to once Kamala Harris took office was all the noise about the relevance of her clothes and fashion. It’s not because I think the topic should be off limits and we should only focus on what she says, does and stands for in a political arena. Quite the contrary. I don’t think that there should be much to debate about the fact that, as a public persona, it matters how Harris presents herself (and not just because she’s a woman). I couldn’t agree more with journalist Joanna Weiss who recently wrote about Harris:
Style is a language through which she can send any number of pointed messages. Consider her fortunate for that.
Whereas the most a man can do is to choose a color of his tie, women have a “broader canvas” to make a statement.
Even if you are not the Vice President with the most superlatives, there is no denying that what you wear and how you look sends a particular message even (or, especially) on video. In fact, the most popular service that people have been booking at Own Your Wonder (since the WFH wave began) is a session on “how to amplify your presence on video”.
So, on that note, here is a list of 8 easy things that you can do to deliver your message on video in a confident and professional way, whether it’s for a client meeting, a networking session or any other work-related calls (along with some tried-and-true product recommendations).
Don’t let your background distract or define you (unless you’re an interior designer or an artist). We’ve seen it all - the crazy art pieces, inappropriate photos, crazy messy kitchen sink - the list goes on. Ideally, we would all have a perfectly curated bookcase behind us. Did you know that there is even a company that curates and sells books wholesale?
Be aware of virtual background images that can make your head and hair look wonky, especially if you like to move your body when you speak. If you really want to use it, try with a solid background or a green screen.
Light source should be in front of you (back and top lights create shadows). I use this cheap and good ring light, but if you’re in a tight space, try this light for your laptop.
Camera (or laptop with built-in camera) should be placed just above your eye-level, slightly tilted down towards you. I was using my old French dictionary and cookbooks to position my laptop, until I recently upgraded to this affordable and light stand.
Use an earphone or a bluetooth headset to minimize environmental noises around you and enhance your voice clarity. I don’t know about you, but just when I think I’ve got my kids and dog under control inside the house, I can always expect a random airplane or helicopter outside that sounds like it’s about to land on my head. Or, one of our chickens roaming outside deciding to serenade me with his cock-a-doodle-do. All these spontaneous noises occur just when it’s my turn to speak on a video call.
Don’t let your clothes or accessories distract or define you (unless you are a clothing or accessories designer). And regardless of your profession, be aware of your accessories (i.e., your bracelets) making distracting, jangling noises especially if you like to make hand gestures when you speak.
We have read all the embarrassing stories - please wear the FULL outfit! It’s not just about avoiding a mortifying situation, but about getting in the right mindset and showing up for yourself.
Makeup - it’s all about the coverage. Whether you like to do smokey eyes or no makeup at all, the one universal fact is that the camera lighting can suck the life out of you onscreen. Applying a light foundation or a concealer can even out your skin tone and make a big difference in your overall video presence.
(And don’t forget to sit up straight! Slouching can make you look unintentionally bored or uninterested. You can also try standing for your calls.)