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How to make your video calls look and sound professional

In this episode I offer practical tips to help you improve how you look and sound during video calls. This is the second of two episodes. Part 1 focused on outside video calls, and this episode focuses on video calls inside. I explain how camera angle, distance, background, and sound can make a big difference in presenting yourself better on calls. I also help you avoid common mistakes, like using bad lighting or holding your phone too low, which can affect how you look on camera. Whether you're using a phone, tablet, or computer, these tips will help you appear more professional. And I share some humorous insights and personal stories to make learning fun and easy.

Major topics:

1. Camera angle

2. Your distance from the camera

3. Your location and background

4. Lighting.

5. Sound quality

Technicalities:

How to set up before you begin any video call.

1. Adjust your camera angle.

2. Check your distance from the camera.

3. Make sure your location and background is clean and tidy.

4. Check that your lighting looks natural.

5. Check your sound quality.

Review:

A quick review of the ways you make yourself a star when video calling.

• Look at your device's camera to make eye contact.

• A friendly greeting and gesture is always appreciated.

• Eating and drinking aren't really a part of video calling.

• Mute your call when you need to, but always look like you’re paying attention.

• Dress appropriately.

• Pay attention to what you say.

• Leave your camera on.

• Be polite.

English phrases explained:

Meat and potatoes - The most important parts. Learn more.

Icing on the cake - Extra things that make something even better. Learn more.

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