What are the most common video conferencing mistakes and how can you avoid them?

1 Poor audio quality

Nothing ruins a video meeting faster than poor audio quality. If your voice is too low, too loud, distorted, or interrupted by background noise, you will lose your audience's attention and respect. To avoid this, make sure you have a reliable and clear microphone, preferably a headset or earbuds with a built-in mic. Test your audio settings before the meeting and adjust the volume and input levels as needed. Find a quiet and private place to join the meeting and mute yourself when you are not speaking.

2 Bad lighting and camera angle

Another common mistake is to have bad lighting and camera angle that make you look unprofessional or distracted. You don't want to appear too dark, too bright, or too shadowy on the screen, or have your camera pointing at your ceiling, your chin, or your nose. To avoid this, make sure you have enough natural or artificial light in front of you, not behind you. Position your camera at eye level and look directly at it, not at your screen. Frame yourself in the center of the screen and leave some space around your head and shoulders.

3 Lack of preparation and etiquette

A third common mistake is to lack preparation and etiquette for the video meeting. You don't want to show up late, unprepared, or rude to your colleagues or clients. To avoid this, make sure you know the agenda, the objectives, and the expectations of the meeting. Review any relevant documents or materials beforehand and have them ready to share if needed. Join the meeting a few minutes early and introduce yourself if necessary. Dress appropriately and professionally, as if you were meeting in person. Pay attention to the speaker and avoid multitasking, eating, or checking your phone.

4 Technical glitches and interruptions

A fourth common mistake is to experience technical glitches and interruptions that disrupt the flow and quality of the video meeting. You don't want to lose your connection, your screen, or your sound in the middle of a presentation or a discussion. To avoid this, make sure you have a stable and fast internet connection, a fully charged or plugged-in device, and a compatible and updated video conferencing software. Close any unnecessary programs or tabs that might slow down your system or cause notifications. Inform your household or coworkers that you are in a video meeting and ask them not to disturb you.

5 Poor communication and engagement

A fifth common mistake is to have poor communication and engagement with your video meeting participants. You don't want to be unclear, boring, or unresponsive in your verbal and nonverbal messages. To avoid this, make sure you speak clearly, concisely, and confidently, using simple and direct language. Use visual aids, such as slides, charts, or images, to support your points and keep your audience interested. Ask questions, invite feedback, and acknowledge comments to encourage interaction and collaboration. Use positive and expressive body language, such as smiling, nodding, and gesturing, to show your enthusiasm and attention.

6 Inappropriate or unprofessional behavior

A sixth common mistake is to display inappropriate or unprofessional behavior that can damage your reputation and credibility. You don't want to be rude, disrespectful, or offensive to your video meeting hosts or attendees. To avoid this, make sure you follow the rules and norms of video conferencing etiquette, such as respecting the time, the agenda, and the roles of the meeting. Avoid making jokes, comments, or gestures that might be misinterpreted or insensitive to the culture, gender, or background of your audience. Apologize and correct yourself if you make a mistake or cause a misunderstanding.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?