When the coronavirus pandemic hit, almost none of us were fully prepared for how virtual our lives would become. The closing of offices, schools and restaurants required massive adjustments in how we work, learn and socialize.
In the process, of course, nearly every experience became virtual—and video chatting quickly entered every corner of our lives. It’s now become essential to master the video chat and use it effectively. But are you using the best video chat program for your needs? Are you looking and sounding your best when you log on? And are you taking advantage of all the opportunities that video-chat platforms can offer?
Here’s what to keep in mind as you navigate the virtual waves of our new reality.
It’s Not All About Zoom
Zoom was launched almost eight years ago, but when the world went into lockdown, this video-chat platform emerged as the go-to tool; seemingly overnight, the brand became a verb, and Zooming became ubiquitous. And while features like screen-sharing and breakout groups have made Zoom a powerful tool for business and education, the free version’s limitations (like capping group meetings at 40 minutes) may mean that it’s not the optimal platform for your needs.
Fortunately, Zoom isn’t the only game in town—and free alternatives offer some perks of their own. Remember Skype? This video-chat pioneer, launched in 2003 and now owned by Microsoft, is still going strong and now includes features like recording and live captions. For video chats on the go, check out WhatsApp, whose 2 billion-plus users enjoy an added layer of privacy afforded by end-to-end encryption.
If you’re a heavy Facebook user—and have friends who are as well—Facebook Messenger makes seamless video chatting just a click away. The same is true for FaceTime: Its integration into Apple products makes it super convenient … as long as you’re calling another Apple user. And to add some diversions to your conversations, try Houseparty, which lets you play games (trivia, anyone?) with your chat buddies. The best way to find out which tool works best for you? Try them all!
Upgrade Your Home Studio
Once you’ve found your platform(s), you want to look and sound your best. After all, family and friends may be forgiving about bad lighting or sketchy connections, but job interviews or virtual meetings with your boss or clients demand an extra layer of professionalism. Plus, since even dating has become virtual, how are you going to impress a date who can’t see or hear you well? (Spoiler: You’re not.) Relax—just use these tips to put your best face forward.
● Light it up: Good lighting can make a world of difference, so invest in a ring light, which helps eliminate shadows. And if you have a whiteboard, use it to reflect light and make your space brighter and cheerier.
● Cam on: The resolution of that camera in your laptop or phone may make you look like you’re living in 2010. Instead, purchase an external webcam that supports high-definition video calls. Or, if your phone’s camera is better than your laptop’s, try an app like EpocCam, which lets you use your phone as your laptop’s webcam.
● Be heard: Don’t be drowned out during your next group chat; adding an external microphone can amplify and clarify your voice. And noise-canceling tools like Noise Blocker can remove some of the distracting sounds happening “behind the scenes” in your house.
● Plug in: Wi-Fi is convenient, but it doesn’t always provide the most reliable connection. And let’s face it: Frozen video and intermittent audio can be frustrating (or, for important calls, disastrous). Instead, go old-school and use an Ethernet cord; while you may need to purchase an external hub to wire up your laptop, the payoff will come with a worry-free connection.
Ready, Set, Connect
With the right platform and your new studio, you’re all set to jump in. But where? Turns out that there’s a whole big virtual world just waiting for your login. Here are some ways to video chat that you may not have thought of.
● Go back to school: Learn about history, politics, the arts, business and more. Audit classes for free through Coursera, or look into online educational outlets like One Day University.
● Read up: Read a favorite or new-to-you author, then have a socially distanced conversation about it in virtual book clubs. Can’t find one you like? Start your own!
● Dance, dance, dance: If you’re missing the club scene, check out an online dance party; some virtual nightclubs even have cover charges, dress codes and bouncers—another good reason to look your best on camera.
● Talk money: With all of the turmoil in the market, joining an investment club over video chat can provide tips and help you cope with the ups and downs.
● Get Zen: A little inner peace has never been more important; fortunately, it’s easy to find virtual group meditation workshops and classes.
● Work up a sweat: Exercise or do some yoga. While Instagram Live workouts are popular, two-way video workouts give instructors the chance to correct your form. Plus, those watchful eyes may make you less apt to sneak in a break.
● Volunteer: Contribute real help in the virtual world. A wide range of online volunteering opportunities could include chatting with homebound seniors or veterans, or sharing a skill like email marketing or design.
In our new virtual reality, there are limitless things you can do via video conferences. If you have a favorite pastime, consider how it—or others who enjoy it—might be able to connect online in new ways.
Rich Beattie is a former executive digital editor of Travel + Leisure and has written for outlets such as The New York Times, Popular Science, New York Magazine and SKI.
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