There are many things that will make your web conference a better experience for all involved. Here are some general tips that apply across platforms.
Links we've found:
Online Virtual Open House Best Practices
How can I speed up my internet connection?
Webex Meetings Best Practices (webex.com)
Video Conferencing - Lighting: Don't Be "That Guy" (youtube)
Video conference etiquette tips (from across the pond on youtube)
Relax, we are all in this together
- Before the meeting:
- Trial Run: Test your camera, microphone, and speakers prior to entering the Video Room or Meeting. Make sure to close all other windows and applications you are not currently using. If this is your first time with a particular application, try a short test run with a friend/colleague.
- Environment- Simplify your background and remove sources of distracting noise.
- Lighting - Do not place a window behind you. Bounce a desk lamp off the wall in front of you for soft lighting. Pure overhead lighting will not be flattering.
- Tech - become familiar with how to mute your microphone, speakers, and camera, as well as how to control attendee participation. Headsets with microphones or headphones are great, use them to help eliminate echo and background noise.
- Materials - Share your presentation or discussion materials by Box or other appropriate file sharing.
- Scheduling - verify that your invite contains the meeting link, access code (if applicable), backup methods of communication (audio call-in line), and basic instructions to attend. Set expectations such as when participants should mute microphones and cameras, and if they should have reference material ready.
- Have a plan for times when something goes wrong.
- During the meeting:
- Environment - Banish non-participants from the immediate area (except cats, that's not possible).
- Tech - Mute your microphone when you're not speaking.
- Etiquette - Be mindful of other's time - give participants a chance to contribute when appropriate.
- There are likely to be occasional glitches, imperfections, or interruptions as people join from home. Roll with it. If there is a chat feature, you may want to enable it so participants can alert you if something is awry.
- After the meeting:
- Follow up - Share copies or links to materials related to the meeting such as recordings, slides, markups, or notes. Recap any decisions or delegation of tasks that occurred - this may have been the moment that someone had an interruption at their end.