Zoom meetings are becoming a more and more popular way for associations to connect with their members throughout the year. But don’t let the casual, virtual nature of a Zoom meeting keep you from preparing as a normal presentation, you’ll still want to make sure that you are professional and practiced when presenting. 

Here are a few quick tips to keep a Zoom webinar or meeting professional. 

1. Clear the Clutter.

Do a test run to see everything that will be on camera. Straighten up the bookshelf behind you and clear anything that may be distracting. 

2. Create a simple background.

If you can’t find a space that isn’t distracting, you can always use a virtual background from Zoom so you can disguise a messy room or unfinished workspace. If you don’t have a home office or time to clean a space, here are a few free Zoom backgrounds to use. 

3. Keep the light in mind.

Make sure to position yourself where most of the light is coming from in front of you, not behind. If you have a window or lamp behind you it will be pretty distracting during the meeting. Play around beforehand and bring another lamp or light into your office or workspace to make sure you look the best.

4. Sound off.

Barking dogs and ringing doorbells aren’t the best to accompany a Zoom call. Make sure the room you are meeting from is free of sound and you won’t hear noise from other rooms then. Mute all notifications and calls from your phone or computer so participants can’t hear those during a meeting. And if you are a participant for a call, automatically mute yourself for a call. Only unmute yourself when you are contributing. 

5. Stand Up.

If you are most comfortable presenting the material while standing up, do it! Just remember to frame yourself in your most comfortable position beforehand and try not to move too much while presenting. 

6. You are your best teacher.

When practicing beforehand, record yourself and watch yourself back. As awkward as it may be, it will be helpful to see what you need to work on and things you did really well.

7. Use a good quality headset and camera.

The built-in features on Zoom are great, but for even better picture and audio quality, you might want to upgrade to look and sound your best, if possible.

8. Make sure to look your best on the call.

It’s true. When you look your best, you feel your best. If you get ready and throw on your favorite (but professional) outfit, you’ll be more comfortable presenting. If you are unsure what to wear, be sure to check out these tips.