Business etiquette for those new to video conferencing.

If you had been resistant to holding video conferences at work, the arrival of the new work at home model has likely shifted your thinking.

There are three technical aspects that make for a better video conference experience - lighting, sound and the background. We'll cover those first and then discuss nontechnical issues which are also important to creating a comfortable experience for all participants.

Unless you don't have the capabilities or can't access your computer, don't do these calls from your cellphone. Sit in front of your computer or laptop, a comfortable distance from the camera. There should be more than just your face filling the frame. Picture yourself in a meeting room and try to replicate that experience for the others on the call.

If you don't have a home office set up with plenty of natural light or at least good room lighting that is evenly distributed. You may enjoy a cozy atmosphere, but if you are under-lit, you are going to be a dark, fuzzy image on the other end. If it is a multi-person call in which everyone is looking at matrix of participants, you will stand out - and not in a good way.

Check your background. This week's pile of laundry is probably not what everyone wants to see, nor should they be trying to figure out what 80s band is on that poster behind you. Some services allow you to either use a generic background or blur your surroundings - let the focus be on you.

Next, manage your audio. Most services allow you to test your microphone before you begin. You may have to go into Settings on your computer to allow access. Most of the services have an additional mute switch on their screen - use it when you are not speaking. When you are ready to chime in, unmute, then speak in a clear conversational voice while facing the computer.

You may be enjoying working in your pajamas but follow business protocol. Dress for the occasion. Someday we will all be back in the office and an impression you make on these calls may follow you.

One important thing is to look into your camera when you are speaking, not at your screen. Eye contact means engagement. It takes some getting used to, but for the sake of your audience, learn where the camera is and always look there when speaking.

Best practices encourage you to use the chat function that Zoom and other platforms offer to ask questions. Talking over one another occurs frequently and things that can be moved off the main call get handled well in chat.

The most important tip may be for post-conference. Cyber security is a real issue with videoconferencing, so when you finish, close and exit the app and when you are not using your camera be sure it is covered.

• Kevin Corcoran is founder and president of Lorelle Communications in Arlington Heights. He can be reached at (847) 394-1600 or KCorcoran@lorelle-video.com.