As someone who has worked from home for seven years, I know it takes time to create the perfect office space. Finding the right desk, chair, computer and location can be a challenge – especially if you don’t have a separate room for an office in your home.
Virtual meetings are here to stay for the beginning of 2021 as many people continue to work from home. Why not take the time to create a set up that is comfortable and makes you look your best when meeting with teams or clients on Zoom?
Here are a few key things you can do to make sure your look like a pro:
Office Setting
Working from a dining table or sitting on your couch chair is fine for a day. However, when working at home for a longer time period it’s worth it to buy a desk and office chair. Having a desk that is only used for work will help create separation and contain your work files, papers, etc.
Invest in a good chair – your back will thank you! When working all day it’s important to select a chair that is not only comfortable, but is the proper height and supports your back. It helps to prevent poor posture and back pain that will occur when sitting all day in the wrong chair over time.
Having a separate room for an office is a luxury not everyone has in their home. If you don’t have a separate room, designate an area of your living room or hallway where you can comfortably work from each day. Set up your desk, chair, computer and whatever else you need, and only work from this space. When working from home it’s important to have a separate zone for work. It helps to create separation between work and personal time. Try to avoid working from your bedroom too – so you can turn off “work” before going to sleep.
Camera set up
Whether you are using a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, make sure your camera is at eye level. You can place your monitor on a stack of books or box to position it at the right height. If you’re using a tablet or phone, you can purchase a stand that will place the device at the correct height and save you from holding the device during longer meetings.
This is important because you’re looking your audience directly in the eye. It also helps to create a professional look and build authority. If the camera is too high, you’ll appear small, as if you’re sinking in your chair. If the camera is too low, you’ll be looking down on your audience. Neither will be well received. Placing the camera at eye level creates an even playing field, comfortable.
Lighting
When lighting your office for virtual meetings, natural light is best. If possible, place your desk or work table in front of a window so the sunlight will shines directly on your face. It will light you evenly while preventing shadows. Avoid having windows behind you as the light will cast a shadow darkening your image on camera.
If natural light isn’t available, or you’re meeting later in the day, desk lamps are the next best thing. Place the desk lamp directly behind the camera, so the light projects on your face. If you have two desk lamps handy, place one to the left and one to the right of the camera. This will highlight both sides of your face, eliminate shadows light natural light.
Upgrade: If you’re willing to spend a few dollars on equipment, a ring light can be purchased for as little as $15. The ring light can clip directly on your phone or laptop, or be placed in front of your camera like the desk lamp described above.
Background
Creating an interesting background is the magic element that transforms your set up from bland to professional. Avoid having kitchens and living rooms in the background as they appear busy on camera. Additionally, they are always private especially if other family members are also working from home.
To create an interesting background, sit in front of a bookcase or a wall with a few select pictures. Curtains or a simple tapestry also make great visual background. Plants, small tables or lamps help to create a warm setting.
Upgrade: Create a branded virtual background with your company logo. This is an inexpensive solution if you’re working from a location where you don’t want the background visible.
Audio
Set your workspace up in a quiet location if possible. Reduce ambient noise when joining a virtual meeting by closing windows, turning off email notifications on your computer and turning your phone to silent. Use headphones to boost your sound quality and minimize any background noise.
Need help creating the perfect work from home setting? I’d love to help! Begin by scheduling a time for us to meet. Whether I give you some quick tips, or you need more in-depth help, you’ll walk away with valuable ideas.