Here are some tips to prepare your PC for Video Conferencing so you do not experience common glitches that can ruin the delivery for yourself and others.
One of the outcomes of COVID-19, for better or worse, is video conferencing – like Zoom. It can be a life-safer, or significant pain in the you-know-what, especially if your computer is not ready. Glitches like the screen freezing, buffering, or disconnecting altogether. (Note: Preparing a MAC computer is entirely different and not covered here. I will cover that in next month’s post.)
Preparing your PC
I learned these from fellow Toastmaster coaching contestants on preparing their computers before they step onto the virtual platform and perform.
- Empty your temp Files.
- Using Search type %temp%
- Open the resulting folder
- Select all
- Hold SHIFT, press delete
- Skip all that are in use
Hint: if you do this as the first thing after opening your computer, it will have fewer “open, in-use items.”
- Empty your recycle bin.
- Check your desktop for PICTURE FILES, MUSIC FILES, AND FOLDERS (any that do not have the “shortcut” arrow
- Search Desktop
- Look at the List and check for the shortcut icon
- If there is no Shortcut icon, it is an actual file. It must be moved to a Document, Picture, or Music folder.
4. It’s always best to reboot your computer to be fresh and ready.
Be prepared for other JAMS
There are lots of other types of mishaps that can happen during your presentation, whether online or on stage. Best to be aware and prepare!
