Do you need help setting up your virtual office? Whether you’re only working from home for a short time or you’re making a permanent switch to working virtually, here are three tips for building the perfect virtual office.
1. Blocking Background Noise
Background noise can be very distracting when you’re in the middle of a Zoom call. While you can set a custom Zoom virtual background so no one can see what’s really going on around you, people will still be able to hear what’s going on around you. If your dog is in the next room barking like crazy or your neighbor is mowing the lawn outside your window, it’s going to cause some problems unless you have already taken steps to block background noises.
One good way to block background noise is by selecting a virtual working area that is as quiet as possible in the first place. If your neighbors are loud, try not to set up your virtual office on the side of your house that’s closest to your neighbor’s house. If you know the kids are going to arrive home from school at around 3:00 p.m. and cause a lot of noise, try to schedule your professional conference calls before that time.
Even when you try your best, it may not always be possible to cut out background noises. You may need to learn how to use the mute function on your phone. If you’re making calls through your computer, consider investing in a good headset that includes a mouthpiece that you can position as close to your mouth as possible. This can help block out surrounding noises while ensuring your voice is loud and clear to the person on the other end of your telephone or Zoom call.
2. Virtual Office Background
One of the keys to maintaining your status as a professional when you work virtually is to make sure your office always looks clean and impressive. Installing a Zoom background is one of the best ways to achieve this goal. Before you can install a background, you’ll need to make sure that you meet Zoom system requirements for virtual background.
You’ll also want to tinker with your Zoom background settings long before you schedule your first call with a client, your co-workers or your boss. You may like immersive view Zoom backgrounds or you may prefer other background types. Test a few different backgrounds out until you find one that you’re happy with using.
3. Choose the Right Equipment
When you work remotely, you need to have a few key pieces of equipment to do your job effectively. A quality computer or laptop, ergonomic keyboard, comfortable chair and a desk are all essential aspects of any remote office. You may also want to download professional software that will help you perform your professional duties more efficiently. It may require a bit of an investment up front to build the perfect office space, but doing so will help you get started on the right foot.
If your virtual office isn’t currently the way you want it to be, try implementing the things listed above. You’ll experience greater success and will feel more confident in your abilities as a professional when your remote office is well-equipped.