2020 has brought a handful of existential questions to the table. Among them—the camera etiquette. Unless instructed to, turning on your camera during online meetings or classes remains at your discretion. But think about it. If you were attending an in-person meeting or class, whether showing your face or not would not even be an option. Having the luxury of remaining unseen is a privilege not to be underestimated.
Obviously, turning on your camera improves and inspirits whatever meeting you’re taking part in. For all participants, being able to put a face to the name makes everything smoother, friendlier and, usually, more enjoyable.
If what’s making you refrain from joining-in visually is a background matter, you can easily customize your setting. Feeling a little summer-nostalgic? Set yourself on a dreamy beach! Options are unlimited and images are easy to upload. Visit these Step-By-Step to do it on your different platforms:
Now, your background might not always be the matter of concern—sometimes our face is simply not video-call-ready. Before giving up and claiming your camera’s being defective, why not try different angles, various lighting, applying a little makeup or putting a smile on your face? You might find yourself unexpectedly stunningly attractive—or if not, approachable at least!—in very little time.
All in all, don’t forget that turning on your camera sometimes does send a message on your personality, interest in the call and level of participation. Especially when it comes to a workplace video-call, not being visually present (without explaining, of course!) might resonate badly.