With the amount that we all use online meetings we need to think about how we look to others – especially when the video is switched off. And that means how to personalise Zoom, allowing people to recognise you all the time!
Let’s start with something really simple:
Your Name
I think it’s fair to say that we all know to enter our name (if you don’t have an account) when you join a Zoom call. But do you think about what others see?
OK – so you enter your name but what do you actually type in?
- M Kaye
- Michelle
- Michelle Kaye
- Kaye, Michelle
- Michelle K
- Mitsh (nickname)
- something else?
Tip
Whatever you choose when you join the meeting can be changed once it’s started.
Maybe you don’t actually enter your name, maybe instead you use a company name, job title or something else that will identify you without being personal.
Have you thought about mixing and matching this information?
e.g. Michelle Kaye – Tech Trainer
Now of course it all depends on the type of meeting that you are joining.
If it’s friends I’ll stick to my name, but if it’s more business you may want something else…
- Do you know these people? – should you be friendly, casual, or professional
- Is your name popular? – do you need to include more than just your first name to identify you
- Is your role/company important? – should you include that as well as your name
No matter what you choose, everyone will be able to see it, and it will be displayed on the Participants Pane.
Changing your displayed name (in the meeting)
The quick and easy way once you’re in a meeting:
- Display the Participants pane
- Use the mouse to hover over your name in the list
- Click Rename
- Type in the new version
- In the the dialog box, click OK
Picture
Let’s be up front – you don’t have to have a picture.
But, if you don’t, then Zoom will automatically display initials based on the name you entered, so that there’s is always something to look at on screen.
However, as they say “a picture says a thousand words”.
With so many of us working hybrid, not seeing people face to face, and often (now) not wanting to switch the camera on, it’s nice to have something to look at.
Unlike your name, if you want to have a picture, to personalise Zoom, you will need to have an account.
All you need to create a free Zoom account is an email address, which can be your personal email or business email (if allowed).
As with your name, think about the types of meetings that you’ll be attending and pick an image that will match with the majority.
If you’re unsure, go with a nice headshot of you. It doesn’t have to be a professional taken one, just a nice picture of you.
If you are going to mostly attend business meetings, aim for one that highlights you, a clear image of your face and a simple background.
Try to avoid holiday or embarrassing snapshots!
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