Some of my fav #protips working in the tech industry as a developer, manager, sales leader, etc.
Simple tweaks to being on video can make a big difference in other's perception of you and how you feel about yourself in calls. Really embracing these was one way I level'ed up from a Senior to Principal level at AWS.
- Keep your eyes at 1/3 level down the screen. -- It's called the "rule of 3rds" in photograpy and is one of the first most basic principles to making a video look good and professional.
- Use a GOOD quality camera. -- Logitech BRIO (currently $150) is a fantastic "High Definition Range" (HDR) camera that makes the picture look amazing. Any camera can do high-definition (HD) these days. But getting the lighting right is the key to a good video. I get way better results with this camera than I ever did using a light ring.
- Use a good quality microphone. -- I'm not talking a fancy condenser (Shure, Samson, etc) mic. I've tried 20+ mics and this is my favorite, a simple USB Gooseneck Mic for ~$20 that sounds great and says out of the way.
- Physically lean in slightly. -- By slightly leaning in you appear (and actually are) more engaged. Or using a standing desk setup is even more engaging.
- Listen really well. Take notes. Share "this is what I heared, is that right?". People love hearing that you really heard them and understand. And it makes a world of difference in delivering what they're needing vs just what you think you're interpretting as their need.
- Capture quotes, phrases, and sayings that stand out to you. That are thought or feeling provoking to new perspectives that grow you. From books, media, collegues, leaders, or your own insights. Just keeping your own list will train the mind to level up. Here are some of my favorite Quotes, Phrases, and Sayings.