They Can’t Smell you on Video

This message originally published in Rogue Speak, the newsletter of Rogue Tulips Nonprofit Consulting & Association Management Services | September 2, 2021

As we evaluate over one year of interacting with each other via webcam, I know we are all looking forward to the time when we can see each other in person without restrictions or worries about the COVID-19 virus and its tiring alphabet (alpha, beta, delta, etc.).

While in some situations we can be in the same room together if we follow distancing and mask guidelines, we do need to stay vigilant about the contagious virus and all its annoying offspring. As I like to say in tough situations: “this too shall pass; like a bad kidney stone, but it will pass.”

Since we are in this situation, I am more grateful than ever that we have webcams. This technology allows us to see and interact with each other in real time, even if we don’t get that special energy from being in the same room together. As someone who was using Zoom before it was cool, I can tell you I’ve always valued this option -- especially when the weather is bad, and I would rather stay in my warm, cozy home office!

As a person who was already using Zoom to stay in touch with friends and family far away, I am also a person that hosts two web series, so I spend a lot of time in front of the camera. I’ve learned a lot about presenting and interacting on camera, and I came to some realizations over the last year.

Here are some tips and fun ways of looking at being on camera that you may or may not have considered:

1.??????They can’t smell you on video. If you are not feeling that you look your best, keep in mind no one knows the last time you showered. Thankfully, webcams don’t come with Smell-O-Vision. If your hair is combed, your clothes are neat, and you don’t have spinach in your front teeth, YOU LOOK GREAT!

2.??????Remember to look directly at the camera if you are doing a presentation or if you are in a meeting. When you are speaking, don’t look at the ceiling or the wall or anywhere else -- especially if someone has just asked you a question. Pretend the camera is the person you are speaking to or your audience if you are presenting. Don’t give in to the urge to stare down or across the screen.

3.??????Make sure your lighting is flattering and doesn’t blind the audience. You also don’t want to fade into the background, so make sure the light is in front of you not behind you. If you are sitting near a window, check the daylight and how it is reflecting off your face and screen; you may need to close the curtains or adjust the position of your camera.

4.??????Speak clearly and go ahead and move your hands to emphasize points; make sure you move your face too. You want to look active and animated; it makes for a better experience all around.

5.??????Don’t forget to have fun with it! It’s OK to laugh and enjoy talking with people even if it is on camera. Relax and go with the flow of the conversation.

6.??????If you are making a recording, don’t worry if you make a mistake; that’s why the editing tool exists!

Some of us are still adjusting to being on camera, even though video was already a big part of what we did before the Great Lockdown of 2020. When the virus is gone, and it will be eventually, let’s remember that virtual connection is still a great option for connecting with people. Let’s not forget the lessons of how virtual interaction can create new experiences and support existing ones.

Did you know that Rogue Tulips helps clients develop content delivered via video? Let’s talk!