Tips and Tricks for Video Conferences

Court and Zoom Conferences

In this strange age of COVID-19 and quarantine, all of us have experienced changes to what we used to consider “normal”.  Adjustments have been made, precautions are taken and we are adapting.  Possibly the most notable change is the shift from direct contact to remote or virtual interaction.  If you had not heard of or used video conferencing before the pandemic, you almost certainly have by now.  Law offices and courtrooms are no exception.  Video conferences are now taking the place of conferences and hearings.

Considering the widespread implementation of remote communication, we could all benefit from guidelines for video our conference appointments.  Below, we have compiled some tips and tricks.

Username

When setting up your account with a video conference platform (i.e. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.), you will need to choose a username.  This username will become your identity during the video conference platform and will be visible to all meeting participants.  Make sure your username clearly indicates to all participants who you are.  For instance, you should consider a username of your first and last name, either connected as one word or by an underscore.

Your username will set the tone for how you are perceived and creates a first impression.  So, be mindful of the vibe you want to put off and choose your username accordingly.

Location

Before choosing where to participate in your video conference, take a look at your surroundings.  Where will you be at the time of the conference?  Can you participate from a single location or must you be mobile?  What will be visible behind you?

Sitting still in is preferred over being on the move, but if you must be mobile, consider pausing your video stream.  By doing so, you are still able to hear the meeting host and participants, but they are unable to see you moving around and the shaky video quality.

You should also consider the audible background noise at your location.  Any background noise will interfere with the meeting and create distractions for the host, the participants and even you.  If you cannot find a quiet location from which to participate in the meeting, consider muting your audio stream when you are not speaking.  Similar to pausing your video stream, muting your audio allows you to hear other participants and prevents them from hearing your background noise.

How to Dress

Obviously, there is no established dress code for video conference platforms, but that does not mean your outfit is unimportant.  Always consider the type of video conference in which you are participating and from where you are broadcasting.  Account for your head and shoulders to be visible and dress accordingly.  If you can participate from the comfort of your home, avoid loungewear and opt for structured blouses or shirts.  If you look professional from the waist up, you will look professional for your video conference. 

Summary

Video conferences have become a new “normal” as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and are likely here to stay.  Treat your video conference the same as its in-person alternative and make choices from there. 

Contact Hicks & Spector L.L.C. to schedule a consultation to discuss your family issue or divorce.

Content contained on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. You should consult an attorney of your choosing to discuss your particular case and to obtain legal advice specific to your situation.