Welcome to Videoconferencing. Please ensure you read each section carefully. Estimated time to completion are below:
Introduction to Videoconferencing (10 Minutes)
Zoom (45 Minutes)
Google Meet (30 Minutes)
Teams (55 Minutes)
Install and Test (90 Minutes)
Key Tips for Videoconferencing (10 Minutes)
Total estimated time: 4 Hours
In a remote work environment, videoconferencing serves as a critical tool for communication, collaboration, and connection. Unlike emails or instant messaging, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, video calls allow for real-time conversations where tone, body language, and facial expressions help convey meaning more effectively. Videoconferencing also fosters teamwork by enabling face-to-face interactions regardless of geographic location, making it possible for remote employees to engage in discussions, brainstorm ideas, and build relationships with colleagues. Additionally, videoconferencing enhances productivity by allowing for structured meetings, training sessions, and quick check-ins without the need for travel, ultimately saving both time and money. As more organizations embrace remote and hybrid work models, proficiency in videoconferencing is no longer just a convenience—it is an essential skill for professional success.
Videoconferencing is widely used across industries to support a variety of professional functions. One of its most common applications is team meetings, where employees can align on projects, share updates, and collaborate in real time. It is also frequently used for client presentations and sales calls, allowing businesses to engage with customers and partners across the globe without requiring in-person meetings. In addition, videoconferencing is a vital tool for job interviews, enabling employers to connect with candidates remotely, reducing hiring costs and expanding the talent pool. Other key uses include training and onboarding sessions, where new employees can receive instruction and guidance from anywhere, as well as virtual conferences and webinars that provide opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development. Whether facilitating daily check-ins or large-scale corporate events, videoconferencing has become an indispensable part of modern professional communication.
As part of the Tier 1 program, you’ll be participating in weekly video calls, giving you plenty of opportunities to practice and refine your videoconferencing skills. These calls are more than just meetings—they're a chance to build confidence in speaking professionally, using key features like mute, chat, and screen sharing effectively, and presenting yourself in a polished and engaged manner. The habits you develop now will be crucial when it comes time for virtual job interviews, where first impressions matter. Unlike a casual check-in, an interview is a one-time opportunity to showcase your professionalism, communication skills, and readiness for remote work. By treating every video call as a chance to improve, you’ll ensure that when the time comes for an interview, you’ll already have the experience and confidence to make a strong and lasting impression.
Zoom is one of the most popular videoconferencing platforms, widely used across industries for virtual meetings, webinars, and collaborative sessions. It is known for its user-friendly interface, high-quality video and audio, and reliable connectivity. A key feature of Zoom is its breakout rooms, which allow hosts to divide participants into smaller groups for discussions or teamwork before bringing everyone back to the main session. Zoom also offers virtual backgrounds, screen sharing, polling, and advanced meeting controls, making it a versatile tool for both large events and small team meetings. Whether you’re attending a company-wide webinar or a one-on-one check-in, Zoom’s flexibility and robust features make it a go-to platform for professional communication.
Watch the following videos (embedded below) to become more familiar with Zoom.
Joining a Zoom Meeting (3m30s)
Zoom Audio and Video Basics (2m40s)
Test Your Audio Settings (3m7s)
Basic Zoom Meeting Settings (3m33s)
Using Waiting Rooms (3m7s)
Zoom Recording Basics (3m14s)
Google Meet is a simple and efficient videoconferencing tool that integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), making it an excellent choice for businesses, educators, and individuals who use Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive. Since it requires no additional software downloads, users can quickly join meetings directly from their browser or mobile device. Google Meet offers features like live captions, screen sharing, and noise cancellation, making it particularly useful for educational settings and quick team check-ins. While it may not have as many advanced features as Zoom, its ease of use and strong integration with Google tools make it a great option for everyday meetings.
Watch the following videos (embedded below) to become more familiar with Google Meet.
Microsoft Teams is the preferred videoconferencing platform for many corporations, especially those that use Office 365 for work. More than just a video meeting tool, Teams serves as a comprehensive collaboration platform, allowing users to chat, share files, and integrate with Microsoft applications like Outlook, OneDrive, and SharePoint. Teams meetings support large participant groups, live captions, breakout rooms, and meeting recordings, making it an effective solution for corporate training, project management, and team collaboration. If you are working in a business that relies on Microsoft products, knowing how to navigate Teams effectively will be an essential skill.
Watch the following video to learn more about Microsoft Teams. This video will explain more than videoconferencing as Teams has more features than videoconferencing.
Get Started with Microsoft Teams (48m2s)
To ensure you are always ready for professional meetings, install Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams on both your laptop and smartphone (if applicable). Many organizations use different platforms, so having all three installed will allow you to join meetings seamlessly without technical delays. Downloading the mobile apps can also be beneficial if you need to join a meeting while on the go or as a backup in case of internet issues on your laptop. Take 90 minutes, 30 minutes for each program (Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams), to dowload the apps, test them, and try out some of the features you have learned about. You'll be asked to share more during this week's self-evaluation
Mute/Unmute & Audio Best Practices
Mute when not speaking: This helps eliminate background noise and keeps the meeting focused.
Use a headset for clearer audio: A headset improves sound quality and reduces feedback.
Adjust mic settings: Tweak mic settings for optimal sound clarity and to avoid echo.
Video Settings & Virtual Backgrounds
Turn video on/off professionally: You should always try to have your camera on during professional meetings. Only turn off your video if necessary, and ensure it’s appropriate for the context.
Use virtual backgrounds appropriately: Ensure your background is professional, or use a neutral virtual background.
Ensure good lighting and framing: Position yourself well-lit and in the center of the frame for clear visibility.
Meeting Chat & Reactions
Use chat for relevant contributions: Keep chat messages focused on the discussion and use it to clarify points or share resources.
Avoid overuse of chat: Don’t flood the chat with messages; use it sparingly to maintain professionalism.
Utilize reactions: Use reactions like thumbs up or applause to acknowledge points without interrupting the speaker.
Raise Hand Feature & Turn-Taking in Discussions
How and when to use the raise hand feature: Use it to indicate you wish to speak or ask a question, allowing for an organized discussion.
Wait for the host to call on you: Avoid speaking out of turn, and wait for the host or moderator to invite you to contribute.
Screen Sharing & Presentation Mode
Share screens effectively: Only share the necessary content and close unrelated tabs or applications.
Best practices for presenting slides or documents: Ensure your presentation is clear, and practice before sharing.
Avoid distractions when sharing your screen: Close personal notifications and apps to maintain professionalism during screen sharing.
Breakout Rooms & Collaboration
How breakout rooms work in Zoom and Teams: Familiarize yourself with how to enter and navigate breakout rooms for small-group discussions.
Participate actively: Engage with your group by contributing ideas, asking questions, and collaborating.
Return to the main room on time: Be mindful of time and return promptly to avoid delaying the main session.
Meeting Recordings & Privacy Considerations
When meetings are recorded and why: Be aware that recordings may be used for reference or shared later.
Ask for consent if needed: If you're recording a meeting, get consent from participants, especially in sensitive contexts.
Maintain professionalism when recorded: Always behave as if the meeting is being recorded, ensuring you communicate effectively and respectfully.
You have reached the end of this module!