Technical Writing For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 15

Videoconferencing

IN THIS CHAPTER

Using the right app and additional equipment

Creating a culture of inclusivity

Getting ready for your close-up and etiquette

Zooming into the metaverse

Ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille.

—GLORIA SWANSON IN THE CLOSING SCENE OF THE 1950 MOVIE SUNSET BLVD. (SHE PLAYED A WASHED-UP FILM STAR WHO CRAVED THE ATTENTION SHE ONCE GOT.)

Before the pandemic, many more people worked in the office and were surrounded by team members and other people in the organization — spending more than eight hours a day together, five or more days a week. Camaraderie happened naturally. You learned (perhaps more than you’d like) about each other’s personality quirks, families, and what they do outside the office. These close relationships meant that when a member of the team needed help, they don’t even have to think about whom to ask. As a team, everyone collaborated to produce the best results.

Then the pandemic hit and computer screens became filled with familiar and not-so familiar faces, as you see in Example 15-1. Videoconferencing is no longer a niche ...