Frequently asked questions about virtual meetings
How do I attend a virtual meeting?
The meeting organizer will send you joining instructions in advance. Usually, the meeting invitation will include a web link to the chosen meeting platform (e.g. Livestorm, Zoom, or Google Meet). It’s a good idea to test the meeting platform ahead of time to understand the specific platform controls. Have you found the mute button? Do you know how to use the chat feature?
Make sure your internet connection is stable, and that your microphone and video camera are set up properly. It’s also a good idea to close any other tabs or apps open on your device to avoid accidentally missing parts of the meeting or losing sight of useful control buttons. Once you’re all set up, follow the meeting link in your invitation - and get ready to participate.
What is the best way to have a virtual meeting?
Before setting up your virtual meeting, make sure you have the right software to support your needs. If you’re running a training session, you’ll probably need options to screen share and share a slide deck. It’s always a good idea to use video to establish a strong face-to-face connection with attendees.
Make sure you have a structure in mind or, better yet, share an agenda with attendees. You’ll feel more comfortable if you have your resources prepared ahead of time – and you can guarantee someone will ask you to share your slides after the event!
Before you begin, make sure your attendees have received a meeting invitation. A good virtual meeting platform like Livestorm will support all your meeting workflows, such as sending automatic invites and reminders to chosen contacts so you don’t have to waste time doing it manually.
What is a great Zoom alternative?
There are many great video conferencing alternatives to Zoom. Livestorm is a powerful platform for you to create interactive meetings and connect effectively with clients and colleagues. Use Livestorm to integrate with your calendar and access meetings from any device with one click. You’ll see increased meeting attendance and engagement, and be able to access detailed analytics from your Livestorm dashboard.
What are the do's and don’ts of virtual meetings?
Make sure you’re ticking all the boxes when hosting virtual meetings. Follow these dos and don’ts and you won’t go wrong.
Do's
- Choose meeting software with useful features and integrations
- Test your software ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to share media like video clips and slide decks
- Set a meeting agenda
- Turn your video on to really connect with other participants
- Use engagement tools like polls and Q&As to encourage participation
- Record the session or take minutes to share with absentees
Don’ts
- Invite attendees who aren’t directly relevant to the subject of discussion
- Assume your attendees will know how to use the virtual meeting platform
- Ignore the importance of feedback
- Leave yourself on mute for the entire meeting
- Finish the meeting without confirming that attendees understand the outcome or next steps
- Allow the meeting to run over