Best Practices

We want to ensure all Forum participants have an effective virtual experience, so we've compiled the following guide to help make this virtual Forum work for you!

We encourage you to download the Zoom App to to maximize the features and interactions available in the virtual Forum.

If you cannot download the Zoom app, the Forum will be available through Zoom's Web Browser experience. Alternatively, a view-only YouTube livestream will be available throughout the Forum.

Please check out the Zoom Support page for additional guidance and troubleshooting.

Want to ensure your system is compatible with Zoom? Follow this dedicated Zoom Test link to run through the Zoom platform.

If your are experiencing any issues that are not answered in the Zoom help link, please contact our NESF Technical Support Staff at any time.

House Rules and Requests

When joining the conference, please use your full name, so that we can identify you. You may be removed from the meeting if the name does not match the registration list.
Please always mute your microphone and turn off your video during the event unless otherwise instructed by the session chair(s) or NESF organizers.
If you have a question, raise your hand in Zoom. You may unmute when you are called upon by the Session Chair to share your question.

If you prefer to use the Chat window to write your question, please enter it with [Q] prior to your question. This will help session chairs to quickly identify questions during an active chat session.
Example: [Q] How can I learn more about SSERVI?

Your physical location

Controlled environment – limiting variables and distractions including people or pets.
Quiet - be aware of noise from appliances or HVAC.
Use available light – facing a window is ideal.
Neutral, non-distracting background.

Camera Position

Sit Upright - get comfortable in interview position.
Camera – maintain a flat, steady surface for your device.
Camera Height - lens should be slightly above eye level.
Books can help adjust height!
Distance – approximately arm’s length away from the camera.
Using a mobile device? Keep the device in horizontal/landscape orientation.

Background

Non-distracting - solid color walls.
Avoid: Political or controversial images, export-controlled information, family photos or other personal info you do not want to share.
Try to keep your chair 2-3 feet from the background.

Camera Composition

Medium-tight framing: head and shoulders.
Fill up the screen with as much of your head and shoulders as possible. Allow minimal room from top of your head to top of video screen but be careful not to ‘cut off’ the top of your head.

Lighting

Face your primary light source – lamp or ideally a window.
Limit lighting from below.
Limit back-lighting – the light source will be too bright, and you won't be easily visible.

Audio

Ear buds connected to computer for better transmission/receiving quality and consistency.
Silence - Turn off all TVs. Silence all devices.

Presentation/Interview Tips

Focus on the camera lens – it is your audience's eyes! Maximize impact and avoid diverting your attention elsewhere. Your peripheral vision will keep you reassured that everything’s OK.
Speak calmly and clearly in normal volume – your audience is right there only an arm’s length away!
Be passionate – you’ve got great material to share!

Tech Tips

Plug in your computer to a power source.
For best connectivity, use a wired network connection.
If on Wi-Fi, limit other devices at home that may be taxing the network.
If having connection difficulties, ensure that any VPN is turned off.