If you don’t have time to watch the 2-minute video above, we are going to share with you the technical checklist for Zoom conference speakers and panelists before you meet with our tech check team.

1. UPDATE YOUR ZOOM SOFTWARE - Ensure that you are running the most up-to-date version of Zoom. Zoom regularly provides new versions of the Zoom desktop client and mobile app for optimal video conferencing experience. Zoom provides a pop-up notification when there is a new mandatory or optional update within 24 hours of logging in. You can also manually update the latest version by clicking this link: https://zoom.us/download.

If you already have the Zoom desktop client installed, you can check for updates by:

Signing into Zoom desktop client
Click your profile picture
Check for Updates

2. PLUG INTO THE ETHERNET - You need to plug directly into an internet router via Ethernet cable or wired connection. It is a better option than Wi-Fi.

If a wired connection is not accessible and only Wi-Fi is available, consider positioning yourself as close to the router as possible.

It’s important to note that the minimum Internet bandwidth to make video calls and use most of the features on Zoom is around 3 Mbps.

You may check your Internet bandwidth using an online speed test, such as Nperf, Speedtest, or Comparitech.

TURN OFF YOUR VPN - If you are using a VPN, you may consider disabling it for the time that you are on Zoom. If you encounter connectivity issues, you may try the following tips to improve your connection.

Stop Camera Feed
Disable HD Video in Zoom
Close other Applications & web browser
Avoid Crowding Your Router
Restart the router if possible

3. AUDIO (AVOID LAPTOP MICS) - Avoid using the microphone built into your laptop or computer since it will be difficult to hear as the microphone picks up a lot of ambient noise and can lead to distortion.

You need to have a headset or a USB microphone that is plugged into the computer or laptop.

Check if your headset's microphone is not scraping your hair or clothing to prevent any unnecessary noise.

Aside from the hardware recommendation, there are also ways to improve sound quality by optimizing the audio settings in the desktop version of Zoom (see below).

By default, Zoom enables a suite of sound enhancements to suppress background noise.

4. CAMERA POSITION IS IMPORTANT - Raise your laptop so the webcam is within eye level.

The position of the eyes to the camera is critical hence the camera on your computer should be at eye level and not looking up your nose or down on your head.

You can also place your laptop on books or a stand to ensure that you are looking directly at the camera when seated or standing.

CENTER YOURSELF IN THE FRAME - You need to compose yourself in the frame in a medium shot. This is about mid-torso to just above the head with a few inches of headroom. This will mean adjusting yourself and the camera.

If you regularly use your phone during virtual meetings, consider purchasing a small tripod. You may also consider buying an HD camera if you use a computer older than 2 years.

An additional tip to improve the camera's video quality is to Enable HD in video settings and play with the Touch up my appearance option to bring a better virtual presence.

5. LIGHTING - Let there be light! You need to have a light source in front of you.

It could be natural lighting or artificial lightings like a lamp, a ring light, or small LED lights that work best for you. Just make sure your face is slightly brighter than your background.

If the event is during the daytime, you can have windows in front of you to light the face. Blown-out light or a window in the background will make the face dark and shady. If you're using a virtual background or green screen, it is also important that you provide adequate light to the backgrounds.

6. RENAME YOURSELF - Last but not least, we encourage people to rename themselves in Zoom. We recommend the format [first name, last name] [a dash or separator] [your job title, or the name of your organization].

To change your name after entering a Zoom meeting, click on the “Participants” button at the bottom of the Zoom window.
Hover your mouse over your name in the “Participants” list on the right side of the Zoom window. Click on “Rename “and type the name you want.

Technical Checklist for Zoom Conference Speakers and Panelists + [VIDEO]