Confidence on Zoom: Tips and Tools to Look Like a Pro

If you weren’t in the habit of using it before now, you’ve probably been playing catch-up and feeling a little confused - and maybe even overwhelmed - by this “new” technology. In the 90s, video conferencing was still a “Jetsons level” technology that we dreamed about - and now here we are, not knowing which buttons to press.

Alexa to the rescue! This section is dedicated to the nitty-gritty details of the Zoom platform.

I’ve included a resource guide with helpful links for common questions, and I also have some screen recordings in the video lectures that will show you exactly where to look on each call to find all of its most useful settings and functions. You’ll be setting up meetings and sending invites in no time!

New to Zoom? No problem! You can sign up for a new account right here:

https://zoom.us/

Most people are fine with a free account. If you want to host calls longer than 40 minutes, then consider investing in a PRO account. If you need some extra support to learn more about the various plan options, read more here:

https://zoom.us/pricing

Now that you have your account, let’s get you standing out with some professional polish! In this video, you’ll learn how to upload your profile picture, edit your name, and schedule your first meeting to PRACTICE! In no time, you’ll understand everything there is to know about waiting rooms, passcodes, meeting settings, and invitations. I know it sounds like a lot, but you can do it!

Time for some fun, my friends. If you’ve been looking for some comic relief, then video filters are a great way to bring some levity into your life. Silly hats, funny glasses, and some virtual facial hair take all the hesitation out of taking yourself too seriously on-camera. Go ahead, click away, and have fun with video filters now. You can thank me later.

Let’s take some time to discover the various preference settings inside your Zoom account. The key here is to EXPLORE each section for yourself! In this video, you’ll have a peek at all my personal Zoom settings and why I have selected certain preferences, but I encourage you to see for yourself what you might like. Don’t worry, you can always change them later!

If you’re looking for more guidance, you'll find some additional links to Zoom resources in the Quick Links Resource Guide in Lecture 13.

If you’ve ever wondered what all those settings are on the bottom bar of your Zoom room, I’m here to show you exactly what each can do! With a few simple clicks, you can adjust audio settings, video settings, control who comes into your Zoom room, how to communicate with participants through chat, share your screen, record the meeting, and virtually react with some fun emojis. Sounds overwhelming? Nope! It’s easy once you give it a try.

If you’re looking for some quick links to Zoom resources, you'll find them in the Quick Links Resource Guide in Lecture 13.

The whole purpose of Zoom is to have video conferences with others! In this video, you’ll see exactly how to invite someone into your Zoom meeting and what to expect once they’re there. As a host, you have lots of control as to who you can let in, how your screen appears, how to mute others, or even kick them out if you wish! It’s your party, so feel free to learn the ground rules.

If you’re looking for more guidance, you'll find some additional links to Zoom resources in the Quick Links Resource Guide in Lecture 13.

Each of the videos in this section contains step-by-step demonstrations inside Zoom. If you need any additional support, by all means, head over to Zoom to explore their support pages. Attached you'll find a worksheet with some helpful links to some of the features I covered in the earlier videos.

No need to keep wondering if your videos will look professional enough - that’s why you’re here! Once you become familiar with your equipment and learn how to maximize your in-home shooting space, you’ll shine like a pro.

One of the reasons Zoom has been so successful is that they’ve created an incredibly flexible app that can be used on a variety of devices. Whether you’re using a tablet, a phone, your desktop computer, or a laptop - you can explore which device works best for you. In the following series of videos, you’ll see the pros and cons of each.

My best suggestion is to use your desktop or laptop computer as your go-to piece of equipment, rather than using Zoom on the phone or tablet app. This gives you the option to see many more faces and makes the navigation far easier. In this lecture, I'll show you a few additional ways to get the most out of your built-in lens.

If you’re looking for a bit more flexibility with setting up your space so you can find the ideal background or lighting, a laptop works well! In fact, I love to teach standing up! When recording this course, I built a laptop stand using a crate and a pile of books. Get creative, use your common sense, and see how to position your laptop so it works for you.

Smartphones and tablets can be an easy way to Zoom on the go, but you'll want to be mindful of keeping those devices STEADY. In this lecture, we'll review the secrets to getting the most out of these devices! In Lecture 22, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

If you need to take a Zoom call or meeting (or deliver a live stream!) in the car or on-the-go, you can get a window mount. This simple device is exactly what I use each morning at 8:30am PT when I do my Instagram LIVES @wishbeads.official. In this lecture, you'll learn just what you need to get zoomin' on your phone! In Lecture 22, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

We want to get a warm sound, so a wired headset that plugs into your laptop or desktop is best for improved audio (keep in mind you'll need an adapter for some newer devices). If you want to really empower your voice quality, a Blue Yeti USB microphone is fantastic. A pop filter can also soften hard consonants like Ps and Ts.

In Lecture 22, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

Great lighting makes you look like a total pro! Whether placing yourself in front of a window or standing near a lamp, the key is to see what kind of light creates a bright, even light across your face. Ideally, you’ll be able to position yourself so there are no shadows on your face. If you're a future Youtuber or an upcoming influencer in your field - you're going to need a dimmable ring light! These round, tripod-based devices provide super bright, even lighting, and happen to be one of my favorite pieces of equipment.

Take a look at the examples I’ve provided in Section 4, and feel free to use as many ideas as you want. In Lecture 22, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

Sometimes the tiniest thing can make all the difference in the world - Whether you’re using the built-in device camera or an external device, *always* clean the lens. Grab some lens cleaner if you want to be ready for every virtual occasion.

In Lecture 22, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

I only recommend items that have great reviews, so if you’re using any of the items or brands I mentioned here, I hope they earn your love too! But if you’re searching for the right microphone or lighting options for your video set-up of course remember to always check the reviews, and the return policy, and make sure that using the equipment is within your tech abilities and budget!

In this lecture, you'll find my Equipment Recommendation List as a resource you can download. Enjoy!

You already know how Zoom works! Now that we’ve talked about equipment, it’s time to elevate your game even more.

This section is more about what you want to communicate to your viewers and colleagues. How can you use your background to tell a story - do you set up in front of a shelf full of books to appear smart and cultured? Or should you keep the drum set right behind you? Do you show off those house plants? What’s the value of a white wall anyway? We’re going to get into how to make sure your brand is visible all the time - because presenting yourself is a form of communication. Let’s dive in!

You’re going to get to know people in a new way thanks to the era of Zoom calls. Aren’t you peeking behind each person on video, perhaps wondering about or judging their home or background a bit?

No matter how convenient that kitchen table is, maybe it’s too busy - we’re going to look at how you can access the great lighting we talked about before while still making sure that YOU are the most interesting subject on screen. Here are my DO's and DON'Ts when choosing the perfect background. Need a reminder? Download the resource PDF with this lecture.

Let's say you're looking to host a Zoom call about a topic that doesn't including sitting at a desk. In this lecture, you'll see how you can Zoom outside or even in your studio. Take your audience inside your world!

Just a quick tip about our furry friends - and how they tend to steal the show. This is Eddie. Isn't he cute?

If you’re considering using Zoom for your business, that’s a chance for you to think about how you can bring in many of the same design elements of your brand. In this lecture, you'll learn lots of ways to share your best self and your shining business by bringing them into the frame.

You’re in outer space! You’re in front of a bridge! You’re at the beach! You can be anywhere with a virtual background, right? If it’s a “fun” call - that’s fine. They are playful - and I do love to play! If you’re using Zoom for work, I vote that you let your personality - and your real background - actually shine through. Don't worry - in the next lecture, I'll show you how to do it. (Because it is kinda cool)

In this lecture, I walk you through how to create virtual backgrounds, either from the images they have inside of Zoom or from the photos you select. One of my favorite resources to find images is Unsplash.com - free images to use from wonderfully creative people. (Credits are always appreciated when using them!) Another resource is Canva.com - design templates for so many things, including Zoom backgrounds (both video and still images). Get your creative juices flowing!

We want flattering angles, people - put the lens at the same level as the eyes! Camera position is important because it actually has the power to mimic real life - and in the Zoom era, we need that as much as possible, so we can relax and feel connected to the person on the other side of the device. Here's how to work that camera so you shine like the star you are.

I’m proud of you! You’re putting EXTRA thought into your background, your brand, your camera angles, and more. You’re so many steps ahead of everyone else - and it’s going to make a difference. Here’s how to make it all come together though: Don’t wait till the last minute! Think about all this stuff in advance. The key is to take action now. You got this!

This section is filled with tips on energy, delivery, how to dress (I know you’ve been wondering about that one), body language, and communication. Your presence is the thing that matters most - whether you’re hosting and leading or just popping into someone else’s group event. This is the moment to look more at your public speaking skills, and how to be inviting with others - EVEN when you’re on the other side of metal, glass, wires, and wifi. Let's dive in.

Energy is contagious. If you’re not having fun on camera - nobody else is when they’re listening to you. In order to bring your most energized, positive self to the moment, it’s important to think about what you do BEFORE, so you can focus your mind and lift your mood. By the end of this lecture, you'll know just how to lift your spirits, get into the groove, and show up on Zoom with your A-game.

The thing we love about talking to people in person is the feeling of connecting with them - and most of that comes from looking in their EYES. But when you’re using a device or selfie-camera, the temptation is to look at the other person, or at yourself. It’s more like talking to a mirror or watching a movie than talking to another person.

But you can give people the feeling that you’re talking TO them, by finding that tiny little circle and looking there. Here's my favorite trick of all time - the post-it trick!

Did you know that most communication is actually non-verbal? Body language says A LOT! In this lecture, you'll learn the in's and out's of body language so you can feel confident while still being yourself.

To be casual or not to be - that is the question. We all know that’s your “home office” - and if you don’t have a completely dedicated room or workspace, you’re adapting every day. It’s so easy to work from home in sweatpants and a t-shirt - but sometimes it also makes you feel like you’re about to go take a nap. The trick with clothing is to wear something that makes you feel GREAT. Here's my best advice!

Glasses don’t have to be a problem - but as your ring light reflects back to you, you might feel like they are. Not to worry! In this lecture, I share a few suggestions for you to SEE and be seen at the same time.

Now it’s time to practice! It’s not enough to just watch this course, you need to put in a wee bit of work. Here are some easy ways to practice your Zoom skills - and hang out with people you love at the same time! Trust me, practice really does make perfect.

I know - it’s hard watching and hearing yourself on-camera, but once you get past that initial discomfort, you’ll be vibrant and relaxed, I promise! You see, this is really about confidence - just like every social situation in life. When you learn how to overcome your doubts and hesitations, you begin to explore NEW ways to show up with positive energy - suddenly you shine. You are more comfortable in your own skin and you can actually ENJOY speaking with others. Here's a quick recap of what we reviewed in this section.

You might be here just for this section - you see an opportunity as a business owner, freelancer, or instructor to use video conferencing to reach MORE people, more potential customers, and therefore, more money and opportunities.

Let’s take a moment to identify all the ways you could use Zoom in your business - get creative and write them, even the ones that sound outlandish now. You just may get exactly what you want!

Be sure to download the Workbook and write your answers down! There's power in putting pen to paper.

Podcasting isn’t just about audio anymore! Zoom is an easy way to host a podcast and connect with your guests on camera as well as on video. In this lecture, I'll show you just how it's done. While some editing is required, it's a great way to SEE your guests while interviewing them.

Zoom events are a wonderful way to host workshops, webinars, and virtual summits to inspire, teach, lead, and ultimately grow your business. People can also join from all over the world! When you’re hosting a Zoom event, be sure to keep a few things in mind so you can control the room and create a seamless experience - that's exactly what we'll be covering in this lecture.

If you’ve ever thought about hosting a webinar, Zoom can be a great option for you. Learning how to share your screen - gives you an easy way to show your presentations as you host your Zoom meeting.

Since many people are familiar with Zoom, they feel comfortable signing up, navigating the technology, and using the chat feature during the meeting. Great! This gives you the maximum opportunity to connect with your audience while also being able to share your presentation at the same time. In this lecture, I'll take you inside Zoom to learn more.

It’s time to take action! Right now get your creative juices flowing and think about ways that you can leverage Zoom for your work! Using the Workbook, write out some goals and ideas you have, as well as review my suggestions for taking action toward those goals right now! You’re capable of creating anything you WANT. Dream big, get curious, take small, consistent steps and you’ll be on your way, my friend!

You did it! Bravo! I’m so proud of you. You put in the work, you got out of your comfort zone, and I hope you’re already reaping the rewards. Woo hoo! Now, the party isn’t over, it’s just getting started! Keep sharing your light and if you want to stay connected, please do! You can find me over at alexafischer.com and at wishbeads.com. Have a question? Please send it my way. Shine on!