If this global pandemic has taught the world one thing, it’s that there is no such thing as too many virtual meetings. With most—if not all—corporate and social activities taking place online for more than a year now, many people communicate through digital tools like it’s second nature already.
However, as it allows for more convenience and flexibility, online video meetings are not prepared for as much as if they were set in person. It’s high time to change things up since it appears online events are a thing to stay in the long run.
So even in the comforts of your home, always look and feel your best during Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams sessions. Have a look at these handy tips and tricks to get you virtual meeting-ready for the day!
1. Do home exercises
Even if your local gym is closed for the time being, there are still several ways to stay fit at home. Now, while there is no “right time” to break a sweat, start your day with a workout if and when you can for that burst of energy.
Exercising in the morning is proven to give you a series of boosts your body will thank you for over time. Light cardio drills can help sharpen your focus and set an optimistic mood throughout the day. Furthermore, regular exercise can maintain your energy and reduce the level of anxiety in your system.
2. Go through your skincare routine
After getting all sweaty, it’s time to freshen up! Just as you would prepare for work pre-pandemic, do your trusty skincare routine after showering. Yes, this is still important even if you’re not heading out—your skin is not leaving your body either!
Wear sunscreen indoors to shield your skin from low-intensity UVA rays coming through the windows. And of course, any day is a good day to moisturize, so don’t skip that part too!
Remember: Just because you have more time in your hands now doesn’t mean you have to follow an intensive regimen to make the most out of it. Practice a routine you can manage and you know works for you.
3. Change into your work clothes
Dressing up during this new normal of telecommuting helps set that boundary between home and work. Change out of your loungewear and find a fit that feels comfortable but looks smart. You want to look presentable for any unexpected on-cam virtual meetings, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared.
4. Put on some light makeup
Go ahead and feel free to put on some color for the workday! Again, even if you’re on a remote work setup, it’s paramount that you feel most confident. So if doing your makeup for Zoom calls does the trick, then go get that glow!
For something simple, stick with the basics. Work on your base with your favorite foundation, concealer, and powder combo, and then refine your eyebrows to make them look full. Highlight your features using a bronzer or a blush, and give a wash of color to your eyes and lips to look and feel your best for the day.
5. Set up your workstation
Once you’re all set, it’s time to set up your workspace! Start by clearing it out of any mess from the previous day. Disinfect your desk, and dust off your computer—especially your keys and mouse. As far as snacks and drinks go, it’s always a great idea to prepare a bowl of munchies and a tumbler of water.
Now, the flexibility in this work-from-home setup is a double-edged sword. While working in an environment you can control feels liberating, managing distractions that come with it can be difficult. So, if you don’t have to be on your other gadgets for work, hide them for the time being. Set a fixed schedule on when you can use them, so you’re productive as you can be!
6. Test your camera and microphone
Be a few minutes early for the call to do double checks. Before hopping in on the meeting, make sure your background, angle, and lighting are spot-on. Don’t forget to fix your camera to a spot where you can present yourself the best way possible. And lastly, test your microphone if it’s working, especially if it’s a session where you have to speak up.
Get Connected and Ready
Minus the distance, virtual meetings are just like the in-person ones you’re used to. It’s still a vital part of work that, no matter the medium, you still need to prepare for. So, look and feel your best, get your notes ready, and ace it for today’s meeting! You can do it!
Penelope is a content marketing professional for Garnier, a skincare brand that aims to help women express their natural beauty and offers a natural way to skin so healthy that it glows. She is passionate about skincare and is an advocate of sustainability and natural ingredients. In her free time, she loves to travel, listen to music, spend time with her friends, and discover new skills.
