In many cases, audio alone can be sufficient for your meeting needs, but you may need to use video during these conference calls somewhat frequently. Poor video quality can make this nearly impossible, even if you’re simply trying to share your screen. A bad video stream can be caused by a lot of things, so try out the following tips to improve it:

1. Something that can actually affect audio and video quality is your internet. If possible, try to encourage other people in your house to limit video streaming while you’re on a call. Another way to improve your internet speed is to hardwire your computer to Ethernet. (Ethernet is the port on your computer that looks like a landline connection. There’s another on your internet modem that you can connect your computer to to improve your internet connection.)
2. Invest in an external webcam. If conferencing is going to become a routine part of your business, then consider purchasing a quality webcam. There’s a variety of high quality cameras for under 100 dollars and even more usable ones below 50 dollars.
3. Make sure you’re using lights. Webcams are not the best cameras on the market and they especially struggle in low light. One of the easiest ways to improve your video quality is to make sure you’re in a bright room or you at least have something illuminating you.
4. Make sure your background isn’t distracting. Some video conference programs let you use a virtual background. While these are great, make sure you pick something simple. Even better is to find a plain wall in your home that you can set up in front of for your backdrop. 

Of course after you’ve followed these tips, you may find that your video has improved, yet your conference calls haven’t become magically more effective. In our final part of our remote conferencing series, we will be discussing organizational tips to make your virtual meetings easier, fast, and more effective.