Up Your Zoom Game: 6 Simple Tricks
Watching one of my favorites, Tom Hanks, in his recent monologue for “Saturday Night Live at Home” got me thinking. Was I the only one preoccupied by his cluttered kitchen counter in the background? As I “zoomed in” (was that REALLY a bunny rabbit painting next to his sink?), I missed most of his jokes.
Participating in more Zoom calls than we care to count since the emergence of COVID-19, some fellow-Zoomers are unwittingly driving us to distraction. Just like Tom Hanks, they are luring us to focus on what’s behind them rather than what they are talking about.
You’ve probably seen these: The over-the-shoulder spotlight that unwittingly puts the Zoomer in a police lineup; that strangely shaped thing (is it a skull?) growing from her ear. (I later discovered it was indeed a cow skull her husband found on vacation.)
It seems crazy to think about virtual backgrounds at a time like this, but we’ve come to accept that the blob of mustard on your blouse, piece of spinach in your teeth, or ill-fitting suit can be awfully distracting in person. For better or worse, this new virtual venue has expanded the horizon of our distraction.
Since this online group meeting approach to business is most likely here to stay (even after the world re-opens), I think it’s time to consider upping your Zoom game. You’ll want to be — or at least appear to be — at your best. Here are six tips to get started!
Be the Authentic You
For those who say this is all just too much hassle, you can choose a faux background. Only your own silhouetted upper torso and the geography of choice are visible. Now, a sandy beach complete with faux palm trees may not be the appropriate background for a work meeting; after all it’s not a vacation. But there are plenty of backgrounds available on Zoom or you can choose from your own photo portfolio. Just keep the distraction level to a minimum.
My Zoom tip — stick to the authentic you. Fellow Zoomers like to get a glimpse of your personal space so it is worth the small bit of effort to “design” one. Unwelcome props stand in the way of your message. One fellow Zoomer displayed a coat rack with at least half a dozen helmets, backpacks, and weight belts. Right next to it was a cubbyhole cabinet jam-packed with every size, color and type of Nikes. Their rich aroma virtually wafted through my computer screen. Be you — but try to minimize the mudroom effect.
Art & Artifacts
For wall art, the rule of one is a nice guide for Zoom-framing. When selecting an interesting painting or print (or, if you must, a diploma), it shouldn’t be jutting out of your cranium or perched at ceiling height. Over the shoulder is good. And if you prefer a gallery wall, there are plenty of internet tips for how to space the photos or artwork– they should never be a football field apart.
Unless you’re gearing up for quick sale on e-bay, pick only one or two desk items for your Zoom frame. Perhaps a favorite piece that lends a personal touch. Fellow Zoomers appreciate an insight into your persona. If you must display that small nude statue you purchased on your honeymoon, however, consider the angle of his “exposure” to your Zoom audience.
Lighting is Everything
Too much back light (a wall of windows behind or a bright ceiling light above) and you become that creepy figure peering out from a dark alley. Seeing your face and its expressions is really important in virtual gatherings. It helps establish trust and credibility for those who don’t know you well, and helps reinforce a good impression for those who already do.
As a rule of thumb, no light source should be in direct view of the camera. Desk & floor lamps placed a couple of feet to the side or in front of you (but behind your camera) will evenly light your face, overcoming the thundercloud or caveman effect.
It’s All in the Angle
If you don’t want your colleagues to stare into your nostrils or believe that your crinkly neck makes you the perfect candidate for a plastic surgeon’s attention, pay attention to the angle of your computer screen.
Since the camera lens is at the top of the screen, make sure it is even with your forehead and tilt the screen toward you just a bit, so you are looking right at its center. I use several of those coffee table books that never get opened to make sure my computer is the right height.
For those using a phone or tablet for these meetings, you can buy a variety of stands and tripods to make your Zooming experience both more comfortable and more complimentary.
Take a Screenshot
Just as in the movies, a screen test is always prudent. Take a screenshot of your Zoom presence. Does the setting look inviting and interesting, without being cluttered? Are there distracting elements you would crop out? Can you see your face straight-on? It’s funny how you can see so much more in a photo than in real time.
Make Happy Hour Happy
Virtual gatherings can create a magical space with your friends. Have fun with your backdrop. One friend held a Zoom group competition for the most creative background. He won with the Brady Bunch. This group of singles wasn’t busy homeschooling but if you have kids (or pets for that matter) invite them on for a cameo! And if you’re feeling adventurous, have the kids style you. Something simple like wearing a hat or goofy glasses can certainly lighten the mood — along with that other critical desk ornament: a large glass of Pinot Noir!
Jenna Dorn is an Interior Designer specializing in design with a touch of magic and Executive Coach for leaders in non-profits, trade associations, corporations, and government agencies. You can connect with Jenna at jennadorndesign.com or here learn about her executive coaching.
