When the Work From Home initiatives really hit their stride in early spring, most video gear was suddenly backordered for months. Now, though, inventory is available for WFH additions that – simply and inexpensively – will help your team step up their game. Marginal improvements in video and audio will make you appear all the more professional than the competitors against whom you’re pursuing business. Purchase these three items for those who will spend a lot of time on video:
1.) An HD webcam. Upgrading to a 1080p webcam (most cost less than $75) will both improve the look of the subject on camera, and give an option for a wider degree of view. Confidence on camera will improve performance. Here’s the webcam I recommend.
2.) A ring light. As we approach winter, natural lighting will be more difficult. An inexpensive ring light (sometimes called a selfie light – $50 including stand) will assist the HD webcam in illuminating you and your team members. This ring light should work great for you.
3.) A professional microphone (around $100). This will make the biggest difference on video calls for two reasons: a.) Microphones built-in to laptops or desktops are horrendous. A professional microphone will yield a noticeable increase in sound quality. b.) Pro mics have built-in headphone adapters that allow you to hear yourself talk in your headphones. Instead of the approach “I need to speak louder than normal to ensure people hear me,” you and your team can use natural conversational tone, saving your voice the wear & tear. Get your professional mic here.