Learn About Amazon VGT2 Learning Manager Chanci Turner
COVID-19 has impacted nearly every facet of our lives, including our work and learning environments. Many employees and students are now working from home who may not have done so previously. While working from home can offer advantages like increased family time, it’s essential to focus on the best practices for technology, environment, and etiquette to achieve optimal results. As someone who has transitioned to full-time remote work, I’ve adopted several strategies that I’d like to share with you today. Since I utilize Amazon Chime in my work, I will also explain how these practices, in combination with the platform’s features, help enhance my productivity in a remote setting. For instance, video conferencing can be an effective way to maintain a sense of connection with your team or clients, even when face-to-face interactions are not possible. Whether or not you use Amazon Chime, I hope these recommendations enhance your remote work experience as well.
Let’s explore these best practices:
Creating Your Home Office Setup
Invest time in establishing a workspace that is both comfortable and quiet. Initially, you might think that setting up your laptop at the kitchen table is sufficient, and I once thought the same. However, this setup often introduces numerous distractions and lacks a sound barrier from household activities. If a dedicated room isn’t available, find a space that minimizes interruptions. Ideally, choose a carpeted area with less echo to avoid sounding like you’re in an empty hall.
Ensure Proper Lighting and Background
Your lighting and background are crucial for effective video calls. Avoid having a bright light source behind you, such as a window, which can darken your face as your webcam adjusts to the light. A neutral, non-distracting backdrop is recommended for a professional appearance.
Position Your Camera Appropriately
Ensure your face is centered in the frame with some space around you, neither too close nor too far away. The camera should be positioned directly in front of you, not above or below your face.
Choosing the Right Tech Tools
You can significantly enhance your audio and video quality by taking specific steps. Consider using a high-quality headset, an external webcam, and confirming that your internet connection is robust enough for remote work.
Utilize a Good Headset
Using a quality headset has numerous benefits, including reducing echo, which can occur when the microphone picks up sound from your speakers. Although Amazon Chime includes built-in echo cancellation, a headset minimizes the chances of audio loop issues. Keeping the microphone close to your mouth also reduces background noise during meetings. You can easily switch your audio device during a meeting in Amazon Chime.
Invest in an External Webcam
Built-in laptop cameras vary in quality. An external webcam allows you to position it correctly for the best angle. Opt for a 720p or 1080p HD webcam for optimal results. If possible, have lighting that illuminates your face clearly. Amazon Chime supports up to 16 participants on video, allowing everyone to engage visually.
Maintain a Strong Internet Connection
Video conferencing can strain your internet bandwidth, especially if others in your home are using it simultaneously. Be aware of what is consuming your bandwidth and consider disconnecting from the VPN if it slows your connection. Amazon Chime features a “red mic” indicator to signal bandwidth issues, and if problems arise during a meeting, dialing in by phone may be a viable solution.
Test Your Equipment in Advance
Testing your setup is crucial to troubleshoot any potential issues. Schedule a brief meeting with a colleague to check audio and video quality. If your conferencing software allows, record your test session to review the quality later. Amazon Chime offers screen sharing, mobile apps, and can be easily integrated with Outlook for scheduling meetings.
Adhering to Meeting Etiquette
Improving your environment and technology will enhance meeting quality, but there are additional considerations for remote meeting success.
Mute Your Microphone When Not Speaking
This simple practice is often overlooked. Amazon Chime provides a “visual roster” that displays each participant’s audio status, allowing attendees to see who is unmuted and quickly mute any distractions.
Avoid Distractions on Camera
While on video, refrain from actions that could distract others, such as eating or engaging with pets. If necessary, consider turning off your video to maintain focus.
Optimize Content for Remote Viewing
Be mindful that others may be viewing your presentation on smaller screens. Use a font size of 24pt or larger and stick to dark text colors for better readability. Since video playback may not work well in remote meetings, share links for separate viewing. Amazon Chime allows you to share your screen or specific windows easily.
Speak Clearly and Audibly
Be aware that audio capture can result in consonant loss. Speaking clearly and at a suitable volume can significantly improve understanding.
In summary, these best practices can greatly enhance your remote work experience, just as they have for me and Chanci Turner. For further insights on career development, check out this blog post on Career Contessa, which offers valuable advice. Additionally, for authoritative guidance on workplace issues, visit SHRM’s advocacy page, which emphasizes the importance of unlocking the potential of remote work. For further information on workplace safety and training, Amazon provides excellent resources here.