Calm Clear Communications

29/10/2024

Yes, you can use Zoom to record your podcasts and sound great!

Zoom is a powerful tool for remote podcasting, but a few tweaks can make all the difference in quality. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

🔊 Enable Original Sound – Keep audio crisp by disabling noise suppression.
🎧 Record Separate Tracks – Makes editing easier and more precise.
🎤 Use External Mics & Headphones – Minimizes background noise and echo.
💡 Tech Check Before Recording – Avoid surprises with a quick pre-session check.
🔒 Lock the Room – No interruptions from unexpected participants.

Pro Tip: If you plan to post on YouTube, record in HD and ensure good lighting.

Need help optimizing your podcast or virtual events? Let’s connect! 🚀

20/10/2024

14/10/2024

Exciting times ahead! Over the next few weeks, I’ll be involved in various events to help job seekers, entrepreneurs, and organizations enhance their virtual communication skills. From speaking engagements and client meetings to webinars and speaker training sessions, I’m focused on delivering actionable insights that make a real difference. Whether you're navigating Zoom for job interviews or preparing to give a standout presentation, these sessions are designed with your success in mind.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up:
📆 - Tuesday, October 15, 2024,
Virtual Town Hall prep, political client, I’ll prepare the speakers

📆 - Thursday, October 17, 2024,
I'll prepare the speakers for the annual general meeting prep for the non-profit organization.

📆 - Saturday, October 19, 2024,
Hosting on Michigan Public

📆 - Sunday, October 20, 2024,
Virtual Town Hall, political client, running the webinar

📆 - Monday, October 21, 2024,
Annual General Meeting

📆 - Wednesday, October 30, 2024,
Zoom for Entrepreneurs, Speaking at Great Careers Network
https://greatcareers.org/events-calendar/zoom-for-entrepreneurs/

If you're attending or have any questions, feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect!

This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

05/10/2024

Boost Your Virtual Event Impact: Transform Zoom Registration into a Powerful Branding Opportunity!

🔗 Event registration is more than just a form—it's your first impression.

Whether you're hosting a webinar, training session, or virtual conference, the registration process sets the tone for your entire event. Yet, many overlook its branding potential. Done right, registration becomes a dynamic touchpoint that reflects your organization's identity and draws attendees in from the moment they sign up.

🚀 How can you leverage branding in Zoom event registration?
Here’s what you can do:

1. 🎨 Visual Consistency: Customize your registration page to include your logo, brand colors, and imagery that reinforces your message. When your audience sees a cohesive design, it enhances trust and engagement.

2. ✒️ Custom Copy: Tailor the registration language to match your event's tone and purpose. Avoid the default text—make it personal and compelling, and ensure your value proposition is front and center.

3. 🖼️ Custom Banners & Images: Upload banners and images that align with your brand identity. Think beyond just a header—use this space to showcase your speakers, highlight sponsors, or share your brand’s story.

4. 🎁 Registrant Confirmation Page & Emails: The brand doesn’t stop once someone registers! Customize the confirmation pages and emails with thoughtful design and targeted messaging that aligns with the attendee experience you’re creating.

🔍 Why Does This Matter?
Your event’s impact begins long before the first slide is shared. Well-branded registration pages create anticipation and establish credibility, ensuring your attendees see you as the professional, organized host that you are.

Want to take your virtual event to the next level? Let's talk about how we can optimize your Zoom registration process to reflect your brand and engage your audience effectively. Comment below or send me a message! 💬👇

05/09/2024

What are the tried and true tips I share with clients?

As a speaker, trainer, or non-profit leader, you know the importance of delivering impactful presentations. Over the years, I’ve helped countless clients enhance their virtual sessions with Zoom, and I want to share some of the top tips that have made a real difference.

🔹 Here’s What I Recommend:
- Engage Your Audience: Use advanced Zoom features like polls, breakout rooms, and live reactions to keep your audience actively involved.
- Professional Setup: Ensure your lighting, background, and audio are on point. A polished setup helps convey professionalism and keeps distractions at bay.
- Smooth Facilitation: Master the art of managing Q&A, screen sharing, and participant controls to keep your sessions running seamlessly.
- Interactive Content: Incorporate multimedia and real-time collaboration tools to make your presentations more dynamic and memorable.

These are just a few strategies I’ve shared with clients to help them stand out in a crowded virtual space. Whether you’re presenting to a small team or a large audience, these tips will ensure your message is delivered with clarity and impact.

💼 Want More?
I’m offering a one-hour course that will cover these tips and more. You can make your Zoom sessions more engaging and effective, join me!

📅 When: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 5:30 ET
🔗 Register Here: https://calendly.com/calmclearmedia/better-zoom-september

Let’s work together to make every Zoom call a success! Your audience deserves the best—let’s make sure you deliver.

25/08/2024

Wish you had access to expert marketing advice and resources? Marketing with Meller was created for you. You're not alone! Join as a Member now!

07/08/2024

� **Unlock Your Potential with Debra Eckerling!** �

Join us for an inspiring LinkedIn Live conversation with goal-setting expert Debra Eckerling. We'll delve into the secrets of achieving your aspirations and transforming your goal culture!

� Date: August 7th
� Time: 1:00 pm ET
� Where: LinkedIn Live

Debra is on a mission to revolutionize how we set and achieve personal and professional goals.

� **RSVP today** and set yourself up for success!

27/07/2024

What did you miss at Office Hours for Virtual Events last month?

Each month, I hold Office Hours. This exclusive session is a deep dive into Zoom settings, exploring key strategies, addressing common challenges, and answering your burning questions. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills or a newcomer seeking guidance, this session is tailored just for you.

Here’s what you missed
🔑 Managing host disconnections
🔑 Enhancing user experience with features like AI summaries and pre-opening slides.
🔑 Secure Zoom meetings
🔑 Managing participant interactions
🔑 Issues related to video settings on Stream Yard and Zoom

The next session is
Date: August 1, 2024
Time: 5:30 EDT
Platform: Zoom (Link will be provided upon registration)

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to elevate your understanding and connect with peers in the industry. Reserve your spot now and mark your calendar for an enriching experience!

Register here: https://bit.ly/CCC_Office_Hours

Please invite friends and colleagues who might benefit from this session. Let's empower each other to thrive!

Calm Clear Media 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

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Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Office Hours ZOOM LINK. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.

25/07/2024

Michigan Public’s book club, Michigan Public Reads, has announced its next featured book: Deus X by Lansing native Stephen Mack Jones.

18/07/2024

What are the reasons and benefits of having a virtual event co-host?

16/07/2024

🚀 Elevate Your Zoom Meetings with Transcription! 📝✨

As entrepreneurs, we thrive on capturing every detail, every idea, and every opportunity. That's why incorporating transcription into your Zoom meetings is a game-changer! Here’s how transcription can take your meetings to the next level:

1. Enhanced Focus: Stay present and engaged without worrying about taking notes. Transcriptions capture everything, allowing you to fully participate in the conversation.

2. Accurate Records: Never miss a crucial point again. Transcriptions provide a detailed, word-for-word record of your meetings, ensuring you don’t lose any valuable insights.

3. Improved Collaboration: Share transcriptions with your team to ensure everyone is on the same page. It's easier to follow up on action items and keep projects moving forward.

4. Accessibility: Make your meetings more inclusive. Transcriptions help team members with hearing impairments and those who prefer reading over listening.

5. Efficient Follow-ups: Speed up your workflow by quickly reviewing transcriptions to extract key points and decisions. This means faster and more effective follow-ups!

6. Content Creation: Repurpose your meeting content into blog posts, reports, or social media updates. Transcriptions provide a ready-made source of valuable content.

🔑 Pro Tip: Use transcription tools built into Zoom or integrate third-party solutions for the best experience.

💼 As entrepreneurs, time and clarity are our most valuable assets. Leverage transcription to maximize both and keep your business moving forward with precision and confidence.

Do you have Transcription enabled by default? Are you ready to elevate your entrepreneurial endeavor by attending my exclusive 60-minute master class, Zoom for Entrepreneurs?

🗓️ Date: July 25, 2024
🕒 Time: 5:30 ET
💲47

In this power-packed session, you'll learn:
🔹 How to set up and navigate Zoom like a pro
🔹 Tips for hosting engaging and productive meetings
🔹 Advanced features to enhance collaboration and presentations
🔹 Essential security practices to protect your business

Whether you're a startup founder, a small business owner, or a seasoned entrepreneur, this master class is designed to provide actionable insights and hands-on experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to revolutionize your virtual communication skills! 🌟

📈 Register now and take the first step towards mastering Zoom: https://lnkd.in/gZiaTurZ

08/07/2024

🌟Free Zoom Q&A Session! 🌟

Are you eager to gain valuable insights and clarity on using Zoom? Join us for a dynamic and interactive Q&A session during my free monthly office hours!

Date: July 11, 2024
Time: 5:30 EDT
Platform: Zoom (Link will be provided upon registration)

This exclusive session will delve deep into Zoom settings, exploring key strategies, addressing common challenges, and answering your burning questions. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills or a newcomer seeking guidance, this session is tailored just for you.

Why attend?
1️⃣ Gain Expert Insights: Learn about the latest functions and features.
2️⃣ Interactive Discussion: Engage in meaningful conversations, share your experiences, and network with like-minded individuals in your field.
3️⃣ Get Your Questions Answered: Do you have pressing questions? This is your opportunity to have them answered.
4️⃣ Expand Your Network: Connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering new connections and potential collaborations.

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to elevate your understanding and connect with peers in the industry. Reserve your spot now and mark your calendar for an enriching experience!

Register here: https://bit.ly/CCC_Office_Hours

Please invite friends and colleagues who might benefit from this session. Let's empower each other to thrive!

Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting, conference, or webinar.

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30/05/2024

27/04/2024

Office Hours: Learn and grow your Zoom Skills

My first training gig was accidental. The actual trainer didn’t show, so the manager turned to me and said, “You’re training on the basics of MS Word in 15 minutes.” I had been hired to design websites and network configurations. The training went well. And every IT job from that point forward included training. Helping people gain comfort and confidence with technology is fun!

Date: June 6, 2024, 2024
Time: 5:30 EDT
Platform: Zoom (Link will be provided upon registration)

This exclusive session will delve deep into Zoom settings, exploring key strategies, addressing common challenges, and answering your burning questions. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills or a newcomer seeking guidance, this session is tailored just for you.

Why attend?
1️⃣ Gain Expert Insights: Learn about the latest functions and features.
2️⃣ Interactive Discussion: Engage in meaningful conversations, share your experiences, and network with like-minded individuals in your field.
3️⃣ Get Your Questions Answered: Do you have pressing questions? This is your opportunity to have them answered.
4️⃣ Expand Your Network: Connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering new connections and potential collaborations.

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to elevate your understanding and connect with peers in the industry. Reserve your spot now and mark your calendar for an enriching experience!

Register here: https://bit.ly/CCC_Office_Hours

Please invite friends and colleagues who might benefit from this session. Let's empower each other to thrive!

Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting, conference, or webinar.

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19/04/2024

Working the mid-day shift at Michigan Public! What does that mean? I'll be there for the programming breaks during and between shows. I'll keep the listeners informed of news, weather and schedules. At the top of the hour, I'll provide the call letters and frequency.

How can folks listen?

Michigan Public is WUOM 91.7 Ann Arbor /Detroit, WFUM 91.1 Flint, WRSX 91.3 Port Huron, WLNZ 89.7 Lansing and WVGR 104.1 Grand Rapids.

Online at https://www.michiganpublic.org

What time / what programs?
9:00 BBC News Hour
10:00 1A
Noon Fresh Air
1:00 Here & Now
2:30 Today Explained

30/03/2024

🌟 FREE Zoom Q&A Session! 🌟
Are you ready to dive deep into Zoom?
🚀 Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with industry experts!
📅 Date: April, 4, 2024
🕒 Time: 5:30 EDT
📍 Where: https://bit.ly/CCC_Office_Hours
In this interactive session, we’ll tackle critical challenges, share insider tips, and answer YOUR questions live! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or starting out, this event is for YOU.
Why attend?
1️⃣ Expert Advice: Learn from the best in the biz.
2️⃣ Networking: Connect with like-minded professionals.
3️⃣ Q&A: Get answers to your burning questions.
4️⃣ Growth: Elevate your skills and knowledge.
Reserve your spot now! Click the link in our bio to register. Spread the word and bring your friends along for this incredible opportunity!

Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting, conference, or webinar.

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Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Office Hours. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.

15/03/2024

Do “Soft Skills” matter when working remotely?

The short answer is yes! A recent Harvard Business Review article by Rebecca M. Knight notes that “soft Skills” are essential. I agree. The question is how to practice in a virtual setting. Rebecca suggests we begin with a soft skills audit to understand where we are.

Five ways you can practice soft skills on Zoom are:

✅ Communication: Virtual communication tools such as video conferencing, email, and instant messaging provide ample opportunities to practice clear and concise communication. One can focus on articulating ideas effectively, active listening, and adapting communication styles to different audiences.

✅ Adaptability: Embrace new software tools, test out features and updates. Navigating virtual workspaces, and adjusting to remote work dynamics can enhance adaptability skills.

✅ Collaboration: Virtual collaboration tools like project management software, shared documents, and online whiteboards facilitate teamwork across geographical locations. Engaging in virtual team projects, coordinating tasks, and providing timely feedback can strengthen collaboration skills.

✅ Problem-solving: Virtual settings offer opportunities to tackle challenges through online brainstorming sessions, troubleshooting technical issues, and finding creative solutions collaboratively. Participating in virtual problem-solving exercises and simulations can sharpen problem-solving abilities.

✅ Networking: Virtual networking platforms, social media, and online communities provide avenues to connect with professionals globally. Engaging in virtual networking events, joining industry forums, and building online professional profiles can expand one's network and improve networking skills.

✅ Resilience: Remote work can present unique challenges like isolation and distractions. Developing strategies to manage stress, maintaining work-life balance, and staying focused on goals can foster resilience in virtual environments.

By actively practicing these soft skills in virtual settings, individuals can enhance their effectiveness and adaptability in the evolving world of remote work.

Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting, conference, or webinar.

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29/02/2024

Are you looking to stay ahead of the game in virtual platforms and streaming technologies? Look no further! Join us every first Thursday of the month at 5:30 EST for Office Hours, a collaborative space for sharing insights, troubleshooting challenges, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends.

During our sessions, you'll have the opportunity to share your latest projects, achievements, or challenges, participate in a Q&A session, and network with like-minded professionals from all industries. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, your perspective is valuable!

To join the call, mark your calendar and use the following Zoom link (see Comments). Let's spread the word and invite colleagues who might find this initiative beneficial.

Let's grow a supportive community where we can learn from each other and confidently navigate the virtual landscape! 🌐💼 See you there!

22/02/2024

Have you used Zoom Clips?

Here's a step-by-step guide.

Keep clips concise and focused on specific topics or highlights to maintain viewer engagement.
Experiment with different editing techniques, such as adding captions or annotations, to enhance the clarity and impact of your clips.

Please review and organize your clips regularly to ensure they remain relevant and valuable over time.

You can use Zoom's Clips feature to create and share customized video highlights from your meetings and recordings using these instructions.

Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting, conference, or webinar.

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01/02/2024

🚨Today’s Zoom Question:"Show Zoom windows during screen share" Any idea what this does?🚨

This is a setting that is off by default. It allows the Zoom Meeting to show Zoom settings to demonstrate a function/feature.

Should you enable this? It depends. If you need to show a demonstration it can be handy. I leave this on because I show clients where to look for various functions.

If you want to enable this on your account, here’s what to do.
1. Sign in to the Zoom web portal (Zoom.us).
2. In the navigation panel, click Settings.
3. Click the Meeting tab.
4. Under In Meeting (Basic), click the Showing Zoom windows during screen share toggle to enable or disable it.
5. If a verification dialog displays, click Enable or Disable to verify the change.
Note: If the option is grayed out, it has been locked at either the group or account level. You need to contact your Zoom admin.
6. Sign out of the Zoom desktop client and sign back in.
Alternatively, you can exit the client and re-open it.
7. Click your profile picture, then click Settings .
8. Click Share Screen.
9. Verify that the Show my Zoom Windows to other participants when I am screen sharing check box is selected.

What feature do you plan to demonstrate to your attendees?

I host a free Zoom Office hours on the first Thursday of the month at 5:30 Eastern. There’s a link in the comments to register.
Calm Clear Communications 🔗 connecting people and technology. Stay connected and curious.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting or webinar.

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Modernize workflows with Zoom's trusted collaboration tools: including video meetings, team chat, VoIP phone, webinars, whiteboard, contact center, and events.

26/01/2024

In our fast-paced digital world, mastering virtual platforms and streaming technologies is crucial for success. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this call aims to create a collaborative space for sharing insights, troubleshooting challenges, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends.
🗓 When: Every first Thursday of the month

🕒 Time: 5:30 EST
Agenda:
Community Updates: Share your latest projects, achievements, or challenges.
Expert Insights: Feature guest speakers and industry experts to provide valuable insights.
Q&A Session: Got burning questions? Bring them to the table for collective problem-solving.
Networking: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your virtual circle.
This initiative is open to professionals from all industries who leverage virtual platforms and streaming technologies. Whether in marketing, events, tech, or any other field, your perspective is valuable!
To join the call, simply mark your calendar and use the following Zoom link: (see Comments). Please spread the word and invite colleagues who might find this initiative beneficial.
Let's build a supportive community where we can learn from each other, grow together, and confidently navigate the virtual landscape! 🌐💼
See you on the first Thursday of the month at 5:30 EST!

02/10/2023

🚨Today’s Zoom Question: What are the features of Zoom polling? 🚨

There are new features in Zoom polling as of version 5.8.3. "hosts will be able to create polls that include single choice, multiple-choice, drop down, matching, short answer, long answer, rank order, and fill-in-the-blank questions. Hosts will also be able to set correct answers for quizzes." Users below version 5.8.3 cannot view or participate in advanced polls.

And you can create Breakout rooms based on poll results!

To enable advanced polling:
Log into the Zoom.us website. On the navigation panel on the left, click on Settings. The first section under the search bar at the top is Meeting, which should be highlighted. Below Meeting, click on In Meeting (Basic). Scroll down a bit and find Meeting Polls/Quizzes.

✅Allow host to create advanced polls and quizzes
✅Allow host to upload image for each question
✅Allow alternative host to add or edit polls and quizzes
Require answers to be anonymous
✅Allow host to create breakout rooms from poll results

Enable your choices and save!

But, just because it is possible does not make it necessary. What if it is a simple yes/no question? With Non-verbal feedback enabled on your account, you can ask participants to vote using either a green check or a red X. Additionally, attendees can indicate their comfort with the pace by requesting the presenter slow down or speed up.

To enable Non-verbal feedback.
Log into the Zoom.us website. On the navigation panel on the left, click on Settings. The first section under the search bar at the top is Meeting, which should be highlighted. Below Meeting, click on In Meeting (Basic). Scroll down a bit and find Non-verbal feedback.

From Zoom, "For versions 5.5.0 and later, users can send non-verbal feedback from the "Reactions" on the meeting toolbar, and the feedback persists until dismissed."

The Coffee Cup icon (indicating I'm Away) is only visible on versions 5.7.3 and above.

Consider your objective and decide whether you need a poll or a yes/no question.

Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next conference presentation.

16/08/2023

“Please Mute Yourselves”

This is how a Zoom meeting I recently attended began. The host / co-host can mute all participants. If done individually, this would be a game of whack-a-mole. There is a better way - Mute All. This button for host/co-host does exactly what it says.

Slightly better
During a meeting, as host / co-host, at the bottom of the Participants side panel, and select Mute Attendees Upon Entry

Even better, Help your attendees.
Set your meeting up for success by making the default, guest muted upon entry.

Log into your Zoom.us account and go to Settings in the left navigation panel. Scroll down until you see “Mute all participants when they join a meeting”

This will automatically mute all participants when they join the meeting. During the meeting, the host controls whether participants can unmute themselves.

Best, Attendees set their default
Log into the Zoom app as if you were joining a meeting or webinar. On the menu bar, click on Zoom.us | Preferences.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting or webinar.

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05/08/2023

Let me draw your attention to the screen I am sharing

Annotation is a great tool when setup correctly. When it is setup correctly, unintentional drawing is minimized. Have you attended a meeting where an attendee beginnings drawing (accidentally or intentionally)? Here’s how to prevent that.

🚨Security alert 🚨

Login to your zoom.us account, go to Settings | In Meeting (Basic), and scroll down to Annotations.

Enable “Allow host and participants to use annotation tools to add information to shared screens”

✅Allow saving of shared screens with annotations

✅Only the user who is sharing can annotate

What if you want to allow multiple attendees to draw on the screen?

Uncheck “Only the user who is sharing can annotate”

To remove annotations during a live meeting,

If you are the host (or co-host), click on Annotate | Clear

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting or webinar.

19/06/2023

Raise Your Hand to be Called Upon

The Raise Hand feature in is wonderful. It allows participation and interaction. It also maintains order. People remain in the order that they raise their hands. You can look either in the Participant panel on the right side or in the upper left of the Gallery view.
I’ve instructed people countless times to “Click on Reactions. Below the six emojis, you will see the green check, red X, Slow Down, Speed Up, Away, and Raise Hand. No more!

🚨New feature alert 🚨

In version 5.12.9 or later, you can Show Raise hand in the toolbar. This moves it from the Reaction button into the main toolbar.
Now, calling on individuals is even easier! And they will still stay in the order that they raised their hand.

To update the application on your computer, log into the Zoom app as if you were joining a meeting or webinar on your computer. On the menu bar, click on Zoom.us | Check for Updates.

To update Zoom on your mobile device, go to the appropriate application store on your and check for updates.

Notes:
How often should you check for updates? Once a quarter should keep you reasonably up to date.

When should you avoid an update? Right before your significant/important meeting. Give yourself time to see if the features/functions you intend to use have changed. Give yourself time to practice with a new version.

If all of this seems like a lot to keep track of, let me know. I'd be happy to work with you on your event.

Does your organization host a regular meeting on Zoom? Are you getting the most out of Zoom? Let me know how I may help you or your team prepare for your next meeting or webinar.