(WSNN) – The coronavirus has many of us working from home, which means communicating through video conferencing tools. New territory for you?
“Don’t feel guilty if you get your laundry done during the day, but do feel guilty if you’re on a conference call and you’re organizing your closet,” Public relations professional, Kim Livengood, said.
Livengood has worked from home for many years and has tips for those who are joining the club. However, she emphasizes the importance of separating your home from work.
“Definitely have a dedicated workspace so you really have that defined area to separate work from personal life,” Livengood said.
When it comes to creating the space for a video call, it’s all about the angle. Interior designers explain the best way to set up your space.
First: lighting.
“You don’t want light streaming in behind you because people won’t be able to see you,” owner and principle designer of Distinctive Interiors, Stephanie Nolan, said.
Nolan says you also want to watch out for those loud kids.
“Shut the door and muffle sound as much as possible, especially if you have little ones about, because there’s no filter,” Nolan said.
“Working at home in a family of five presents challenges,” SNN reporter, Annette Gutierrez, said. “So, for me, I use the domino table outside to have a neutral background away from all the noise.”
Nolan says it’s important to have neutral colors with a clean background.
“You have to think about the distraction level and how much you want to show,” Nolan said. “Tidy up and not be so messy and really be conscious. Take a good look, you don’t want to have any embarrassing personal items out, whatever they may be.”
Interior designer at Chic on the Cheap, Jill Geisdorf, says it’s important to think about what you want to convey. But, ultimately:
“A little bit of patience on a FaceTime or Skype call goes a long way,” Geisdorf said.