If you have ever attended a web meeting I’m sure you’ve had to endure the constant rustling of paper or off-screen conversations that distract from the on-screen presentation. For those who are new to web meetings, you may have yet to experience the joy of someone talking over their cell phone while taking public transit during a web call…but just wait, it happens.

For those new to web meetings and also the seasoned participant or host, the following tips will help you make the most of your meetings and keep your partners/clients/attendees from wishing they had something better to do 🙂

NOTE: It doesn’t matter of you’re using ZOOM, Teams, Slack or any other platform. These same tips apply.

• Generally, you do not need to subscribe to a service or pay to be a part of most web meeting tools. If you’ve been invited to attend all you will need to do is click the link in the email you received and follow the prompt. If you are hosting meetings you’ll need to pick your platform and pay for a subscription if one is required.
• You will need a webcam to fully participate in a web meeting. Sure, you can simply call in, but you’ll be more likely to engage if you can be seen on the screen.
• You can use a mobile device (phone/tablet) for web meetings, but the experience is better with the larger screen on a computer.
• I recommend that you attend web meetings from a private office. If you are in a shared space or if other people will be in your office while you participate in the meeting, I recommend that you join the meeting audio by calling in with your phone & headset to minimize noise on the call. The webcam microphone picks up all noise in the office, not just you 😊
• Practice self-muting while attending the web meeting. This will eliminate excess noise during the meeting and help everyone to have the best experience. Simply use the mute button in the software when you’re not talking, but remember to UN-MUTE when it is your turn to talk 🙂
• Stay focused. It’s easy to get distracted when you’re on a web meeting with paperwork, an email, a phone call…but keeping your full attention on the meeting will help keep the meet engaging for all.
• Practice before you join. If you’ve never used INSERT PLATFORM HERE and want to practice, setup a test call with a co-worker. Most platforms offer some form of trial account or free version so that you can test it out before you jump in.
• Don’t forget you have a camera! I’ve seen several funny moments (and a few strange ones) when attending online meetings. Assume your camera is ON unless you turn it off 😊

For additional tips about conducting web meetings check out the 5-tips article from Inc.com

A note on webcams: Amazon and most other retail shops are out of stock or very overpriced due to demand right now caused by the increase in people working form home during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re unable to find a webcam just give us a call…we have a few devices available to lend out during this time.

-William Steffenauer