Do you agree that video chatting is among the most used and convenient ways of communication? In fact, it is a fantastic way of staying connected with loved ones. Apart from that, it makes communication with colleagues easy and is ideal for giving a superb first impression during a crucial business meeting or job interview.
It’s no secret that looking good on video chat can be very challenging and intimidating, to say the least. For sure, you want to look your best, but where do you even start? Fortunately, there are a few simple but essential tips to ascertain that you nail it on matters of video chatting.
Let us share them with you. Shall we?
10 Important Tips to Ensure That You Look Good on Video Chat
1. Choose the Right Background
That’s right. Your background is the first thing your audience will see. Simply ask yourself, is your background too distracting or busy? If that is the case, just remove any embarrassing items within your frame. A cluttered space takes away from your appearance. Also, ensure that your lighting is proper. Avoid bright lights behind you, and make sure that the background is neutral.
2. Don the Right Attire
It’s good manners to dress well. So, always select attires suitable for the occasion you are about to attend. If you’re attending a work meeting, dress up and accessorize with your preferred style jewelry for a professional look.
On the other hand, dress modestly and casually if you are meeting up with pals. You’ll feel at ease and confident when you’re dressed smartly. At the same time, be respectful by avoiding flashy patterns, too vibrant colors, and clothing with offensive slogans.
3. Ensure That You Are Well-Groomed
To be honest, you don’t have to go all out, but you should make sure your hair and makeup look well. Just spend a short while grooming your face and hair. The final touch to your polished look is a quick brush through your hair to tame any stray hairs.
Although it’s not required, wearing accessories like citrine pendants and some makeup can help you look more polished on camera. For the makeup, choose natural tones that blend with your skin color and don’t distract from your face.
4. Use Good Lighting
As always, natural light is the best. Ascertain that the lighting is just right-not, too bright or too dark. Find a spot with natural light that illuminates your face, and avoid backlighting. Position the light in front of you rather than behind or to the side.
If you’re in a darker room, try to position yourself close to a window. And if doing your video chat at night, get closer to the lamp and position yourself, the camera, or the lamp itself accordingly.
5. Put Your Camera in the Proper Angle
Nobody wants to look weird and crooked on camera. To avoid this awkward phenomenon, position your camera just above eye level. Next, ensure your face is centrally located on the screen or frame.
Also, remember to look directly into the camera when addressing the person on the other end and not on your screen. This will enable you to look natural and keep eye contact with your conversation partner.
6. Use Headphones
Most of the time, when conducting video chats or calls, we are usually at home or in other noisy and busy environments. Using headphones will help reduce background noise and give you better sound quality. You don’t want to keep asking for pardon from the other person to keep the conversation smooth and flowing.
7. Smile and Look People in the Eye
A smile is considered to be a curve that makes everything right. And how true is that? Smiling instills excitement and makes you appear approachable and amiable instantly. Keep an open, relaxed body language, and make sure to maintain eye contact.
8. Test Your Equipment
Are your camera, microphone, and lighting working correctly? Before you start the call, test your equipment with a friend to ensure everything is functioning as intended. Imagine making it in good time for that crucial meeting only for the other party to inform you that they can’t hear or see you. How bad could that be?
9. Sit up Straight and Relax
Just relax and keep in mind that you don’t have to be perfect. This is not an overly serious matter to frighten the life out of you. So, sit up straight and maintain a good posture during the video chat. Just focus on being yourself and having a good time. Okay?
10. Avoid Distractions
Concentration shows that you are keenly listening to what is being said or presented by the other party. Avoid distractions such as pets, loud noises, and other people in the background. After all, it’s just for a short while, and then you resume your normal activities.
Video Chatting Soon? Look Your Best and Enjoy It!
To sum up, if you follow these straightforward suggestions, you’ll always appear your best during video chats. And guess what? Your audience will be really impressed if you present yourself well with the appropriate attire, lighting, and posture.
Be yourself—that’s what matters most, always!
