HEY, WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT?
Zoom, Google Meet and Skype have all very quickly become part of everyday life.
But when you sit at the screen, what are you looking at? And what does your audience see? While the purpose of the call is to see each other face to face virtually, there is far more that we spy. These virtual meetings give us a glimpse into our boss’s living room and maybe too much information about a colleague’s interest in Star Wars.
Here is a checklist of what you should not and should have in your background in your next virtual meeting:
No doorways – Do you remember the professor whose kids entered his room while he was having a serious interview about South Korean politics? Unfortunately, most people remember the young daughter marching in followed by the baby in the walker, rather than the actual interview. So avoid having a door in the background if you can help it. And if not, put up a sign or install a lock to prevent people dropping in during a call.
No personal photos – While it’s lovely to have your loved ones photos nearby, it’s not for show in the virtual world. Cyber security experts will also tell you this for privacy reasons.
No distractions – Recently I saw a person on the tv being interviewed at home about a serious political matter. All I could focus on was his rock poster in the background. When did he go to the concert? Why would he use this poster as his background for his call? I got distracted with these questions and the professionalism of the subject, was diminished. Make sure that your background looks professional and keeps your audience engaged.
Not too far away – Some backgrounds look like a Renaissance painting where the room is so deep. Don’t let the room appear too angled or large. Your viewer will get distracted and you won’t be the centre of focus.
Do:
Keep yourself the centre of attention. Have good lighting (natural where possible). After all they are talking to you not your pot plant.
If you can’t rearrange your background, use a screen. These can be moved around and provide privacy and a decent backdrop.
Keep it simple. A clean flat wall, a tidy bookshelf or art work will suffice.
Need help with getting your study and background arranged, please contact me. To receive helpful tips and inspiration direct to your email inbox, please sign-up to receive my “All Things Interiors” newsletter.
