08 May Anatomy of … a Zoom Background

Lights, Camera, Action

It’s been three years since videoconferencing became an integral part of our work routines, and in that time we’ve learned a lot about how to maintain our professionalism in the virtual meeting space. But if you’re still worried about the impression your Zoom background is making on colleagues and clients, here are the dos and don’ts that can make the biggest difference.

Do try to schedule on-camera time.

Because seeing someone face-to-face can help to forge a connection and enhance a relationship, “I always join calls with my camera on even if it’s just to say hello initially,” says Jamie Levin, a communications consultant and principal of JLevin Communications.

Don’t stress when you don’t.

Zoom fatigue is real. Researchers have found that constant use of cameras can leave workers feeling weary, so there’s a case to be made for taking camera breaks when you have frequent meetings. Also, “if you have to cough, sneeze, take a drink or bite of food, consider turning your camera off,” says Pilar Lewis, a publicist with Otter Public Relations who interacts with all her clients remotely. That way you don’t distract the others on the call.

Do maintain a neutral background.

You don’t want your background to take away from your message, so avoid bright colors and distracting scenery. Also think about the message your background conveys. “Even though it’s beautiful, a beach background might convey you’d rather be on vacation,” says Scott Lieberman, a manager of remote teams and founder of the small business website Touchdown Money. “And while that may be true, you want to communicate that you’re sharp and ready to contribute.”

Don’t be afraid to show your surroundings.

At the same time, feel free to let people see your working environment, as long as it’s not distracting. It may even help people feel like they know you better. “I do not blur out my background or feature a static background, as I think it’s OK for people to see my surroundings, and I believe it supports transparency,” Levin says.

Do consider potential technical troubles.

Technical hiccups are always possible, so log on a few minutes before a meeting to make sure you’re able to log on and your background appears the way you want it to. If the WiFi is down or spotty, shut your camera off because it uses a lot of bandwidth, suggests Lewis.

Don’t overlook branding opportunities.

Your background can be a champion for your business. If a company strategically places its logo or branding in the background, it can serve as a great marketing tool, says Levin. DW