Thanks to work-from-home mandates, closures, and quarantines, almost all on-camera interviews with media are being conducted via skype or video conference. While this may be the new norm for a while, there\u2019s the possibility that video interviews become a go-to option beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. With that in mind, 5WPR has put together some best practices:<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Set up a skype account with your business\u2019 name.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 When possible, use a hardwired connection vs. WiFi to avoid a poor or inconsistent connection and ensure the best possible quality for the interview.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Choose a quiet space with no possibility of being interrupted by noises, family members, or pets.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Make sure your background is tidy so it does not become a focal point. Remove anything that may be deemed inappropriate.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Frame the shot to limit how much of the background is visible<\/p>\n
o Just upper torso in picture<\/p>\n
o Slight space above head<\/p>\n
o Slight space on both side of your arms<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Close any unnecessary browsers or applications to ensure no distractions or unwanted notifications appear during the call.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Before your interview, test your audio and video to make sure they\u2019re on and working.<\/p>\n
o Run through a practice call with an internal co-worker who can give you feedback on your setup, appearance, and how you carry yourself. Do you need to speak up so the computer mic can better pick your voice up?<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Don\u2019t\u2019 wait until the last minute to set up your background, and computer. We suggest being prepared at least 30-minutes in advance.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Dress professionally, with hair neatly done and out of your face. Fixing and touching your hair will be distracting for those watching.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Wear make-up if you are accustomed to it, but keep it natural. Since there is no harsh studio lighting which traditionally requires heavier make-up, you don\u2019t need to use as much.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Pick a shirt or outfit that will stand-out against your backdrop.<\/p>\n
o We suggest solid pieces rather than intricate patterns.<\/p>\n
\u00b7 Discuss wearing any promotional gear with your PR team as it may not be appropriate<\/p>\n
\u00b7 In lieu of professional lighting, sit with a window in front of you and the blinds pulled up to get the most natural light possible (never sit with a window behind you!)<\/p>\n
\u00b7 There\u2019s a reason social media influencers take their selfies with the camera slightly raised \u2013 it\u2019s the most flattering angle. Make sure to raise your computer so the camera is tilted slighting down to achieve the same effect<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Thanks to work-from-home mandates, closures, and quarantines, almost all on-camera interviews with media are being conducted via skype or video conference. While this may be the new norm for a …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":4950,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\r\n