Tools, Tips & Professional Presence
Video calls have become the new boardroom. Whether you’re meeting with clients, team members, or potential employers, how you show up on Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or even FaceTime matters. As a work-from-home mom, video calls can feel overwhelming with little ones in the background, but with the right setup and strategies, you can look polished, sound confident, and keep your meetings productive.
Choosing the Right Video Call Platform
The three major players—Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams—are essential for virtual assistants and remote professionals:
- Zoom: Ideal for large meetings, breakout rooms, and webinars. Great if you need to record sessions.
- Google Meet: Seamlessly integrated into Google Workspace. Simple for one-off calls and lightweight meetings.
- Microsoft Teams: Best if your client’s company is already on Microsoft 365. It combines chat, file sharing, and video calls in one hub.
And don’t forget FaceTime and apps like WhatsApp Video or Messenger Rooms for more casual or quick check-ins. Clients may prefer these if they’re less tech-savvy.
Your Background Matters
Most platforms let you add a digital background or blur your surroundings. While convenient, these can sometimes glitch—blurring out your hands or making you look like you’re floating. A real, professional backdrop is always best.
Consider:
- A clean wall with framed photos or cute wallpaper.
- Bookshelves or plants to create depth.
- Degrees, certifications, or motivational quotes in frames.
Need inspiration? Check out my Home Office Vibes on a Budget Idea List for simple décor and organization finds to create a background that feels professional without breaking the bank.
Lighting & Camera Setup
Good lighting makes a huge difference in how professional you look. Facing a window is a great start, but investing in a light/webcam combo can take things to the next level.
The camera I use is the GUSGU G920 2K Quad HD Webcam. It includes a microphone, adjustable lighting, autofocus, and a privacy cover—everything in one.
Another high-end option worth noting is the iContact Camera, which is designed to help you look directly into the lens while still reading notes or looking at your screen—perfect for client calls and interviews.
If you’re still using your laptop or phone’s built-in camera, they work fine for casual calls. But when professionalism counts, upgrading to a dedicated webcam is worth it.
Quiet Space & Sound Quality
Background noise can ruin even the most well-planned meeting. Whenever possible:
- Schedule calls during nap time.
- Take calls in a closed room away from distractions.
- Avoid coffee shops when possible (they’re often noisy). Libraries or bookstores like Barnes & Noble are much better alternatives.
When it comes to tech, your audio setup makes or breaks a call. A scratchy mic or echoey sound can be distracting. Two of my favorite solutions:
Logitech Logi Dock – This all-in-one docking station is a game-changer. It’s not just a USB-C hub; it’s a certified speakerphone for Zoom and Google Meet with noise-canceling mics and Bluetooth. It keeps your desk organized by replacing multiple devices while ensuring crystal-clear sound during calls.
Beats Studio Pro Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones – When you can’t guarantee silence at home, these are a lifesaver. They block out background noise and keep your voice crisp, so you always sound professional.
Together, these tools ensure that no matter where you’re working, your clients will hear you clearly—and only you.
Dressing the Part
Even when you’re working from home, your appearance matters. You don’t need a full corporate outfit, but a blazer, simple jewelry, and a professional touch go a long way.
I also love wearing blue light glasses—they protect my eyes and instantly make me look more polished. For more inspiration, check out my blog on Work-From-Home Style.
Final Thoughts
Video calls don’t have to be stressful. With the right platform, a professional backdrop, good lighting, reliable audio, and polished appearance, you’ll show up with confidence every time.
Keep an eye out—I’m creating a course dedicated to mastering video calls, especially the tech side, to help work-from-home moms look and feel their best while staying professional.
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