Top 5 suggestions for improving online video communication

Online communication using Skype, online chat applications, Google+, and other Voice over Internet software (VoIP) is becoming increasingly popular, not just for keeping up with loved ones or friends but also for business and education. More businesses are now doing job interviews, meetings, and even conferences online. Of course, webinars, online colleges, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are becoming popular ways to acquire new skills and earn degrees.

If you are new to this online platform, you may find it difficult to use at first, but learning the ropes is quick and simple. You could even find it more handy than communicating in person. Here are five suggestions to get you started (although this largely refers to Skype).

1. Check all of the technical specifications ahead of time.
Check that your gadgets are ready before a planned online session. If this is your first time using VoIP, set up your equipment a day ahead of time to allow for installation, inspection, and testing. You should look into the following:

Your personal computer
If your computer is newer, it is likely that it will fulfill the system requirements for VoIP. Newer models include built-in speakers, microphones, and cameras, but if you choose, you may use a separate headset with a microphone. If you are unsure whether your computer is current, you may check Skype’s system requirements by clicking on this link.
Connection to the Internet
Depending on the sort of calls you’ll be making (video or just voice),? Your connection (whether with one person or a group?) should meet the minimum upload and download speeds.

Examine the audio and video.
Check the audio and video settings to determine whether they function after successfully installing your favorite VoIP program. You may also try out your headset to see whether it is more comfortable to wear and if it reduces background noise and echoes.

2. Find a suitable site.
When performing this sort of online conversation, it is critical to set up in an optimal position. You will require a location that:

is silent, with little risk of background noise, music, or other unexpected sounds such as dogs, traffic, children laughing, and so on. If you’re at home, avoid placing your computer near the bathroom (flushing sounds or running water) or near humming equipment like a heater refrigerator, dishwasher or washing machine (particularly if they’re in use).
is free of clutter. Look behind you. This is the image that will appear on their screen. Make a nice first impression by cleaning up and checking for any clothes or waste. There might also be offensive posters and photographs on the wall.
Make sure your surroundings are professional, especially if you will be speaking with your employer or potential clients.
It has excellent lighting. Reduce glare and shadows on your screen so they can see you well. The light should be directed at you from behind your monitor, not from behind you. Check the screen for a glimpse of yourself to see whether you have adequate light. You may also change the color settings on your computer’s screen.

3. Dress appropriately (particularly for an interview).
Dress from head to toe, not only from the waist up, as much as feasible. You might have to pick something up or move your computer, exposing your pajamas in all their glory. To reduce distractions, avoid using bright colors or patterns on your shirt or top.

4. Use appropriate body language.
You should maintain proper etiquette, just as you would in face-to-face contact. Maintain good eye contact (look at the camera, not the screen), smile, and talk clearly. Show that you are attentive and listening by nodding your head or making a sound. Staying still for an extended period of time may lead people to believe that your screen is stuck, so make as many little motions as possible to demonstrate that you are still present. Don’t play a game, visit the internet, or type continually during the session. Not only is this impolite but keeping other apps open on your computer consumes precious bandwidth and slows it down. So disable any unnecessary applications.

5. Address technical issues as soon as possible.
It may be helpful to say this early on if this is your first time using internet technologies. If you encounter technical difficulties along the way, the person you’re speaking with will understand and may be able to assist you. If you can’t hear or see the other person clearly, notify them right away rather than allowing them to continue to speak and wasting their time. If the connection is choppy or fuzzy, restarting the session may help, but notify the other person first before you log off and restart.