7 Best Practices for Live Video Training

With the onset of COVID-19, there has been an unprecedented increase in the use of video communication tools. In fact, as per Statista, “Zoom saw its revenue skyrocket throughout the fiscal year ended January 31, 2021. Following a 169-per cent revenue increase in the first quarter, year-over-year revenue growth accelerated to 355, 367 and 369 per cent, respectively, in the second, third and fourth quarter.”

Why? As much of the world has been working from home and relying on technology to stay in touch with colleague amid national lockdowns, video apps, inclusive of video training tools, have witnessed a massive surge in usage. Despite this enormous change, not all organisations have refined their skills when it comes to video training best practices. For instance, if you think about a webinar, live class, or online instructor-led training session, it can be quite challenging to present yourself perfectly on the screen. This inability to present yourself accurately is a significant issue faced by trainers all across the globe. And our article will help you in tackling this problem with ease!

7 Best Practices for Video Training

1. Punctuality

When it comes to corporate training platform, one of the most coveted soft skills is punctuality. Whenever there is a slot for a video training session, ensure that you log in on time. Currently, a considerable chunk of the meetings gets done remotely. Hence, punctuality is easier. How? You do not have to drag your way through endless traffic. Neither do you have the issue of losing your way if the session is offsite. Or, you do not have to spend additional minutes running from one location to the training room. Additionally, you have to make sure that your set-up is working. Test your mic beforehand and check if your camera is functional. When you start delivering the training, double-check to see that your mic is not on mute. Also, press the mute icon when you are listening or are in the waiting room.

1. Introduction

We have all attended telecon sessions in the past. But do you recall how confusing it was when we did not understand who was speaking? This unintended confusion can be an issue in the video training, too, when there is more than one instructor. Of course, video training offers many benefits over other ways of connecting live, and one of those benefits is knowing everyone’s name and seeing their face. Ensure that you enter your full name when you sign in for a corporate learning session. You can think of incorporating other relevant information as well. At times, it is also a great idea to include your name or organisation.

1. Appearance

Do you attend your classroom training sessions in your home or informal clothes? No, right? Therefore, you should not look like someone who has just woken up in the morning — even in the case of remote video training sessions. Mainly, this applies to trainers — they should never look unkempt. Dress professionally and keep in mind that grooming is vital to engaging people visually, even in a video session. And please don’t forget to put on trousers!

Additionally, give a check to your background. The best way is to keep your back against a wall, a bookcase, or some other background that won’t be distracting. The right location ensures that there is no unrequired interference from a family member. If you don’t have access to an appropriate surrounding, learn how to use a virtual one.

1. Lighting

Video training instructors should make sure that they are visible before everyone. You can opt for a ring light or another diffused light source so that your trainers can see you. You do not need a fancy lighting setting, but enough light sources to enhance the overall clarity and appearance. For instance, if you are seated with your back to a window, you will look like a silhouette. Again, if sunlight falls directly on the face, you will appear too bright. On the other hand, if the room is too dark and there is only a table lamp, you might seem like an entity from another world! Hence, test your camera before the session and adjust the lighting accordingly.

1. Preparation

One of the upsides of remote training is that you do not need to print copies of handouts. However, you still need to prepare yourself well ahead of time, especially when you conduct the session. Please keep all your materials in one place to be handy when you have to share your screen. Otherwise, you will end up wasting valuable time in locating the materials. Clear your device so that learners do not see your social media interactions while delivering the class. A great idea is to email the materials out ahead of the session. Many trainees want to go through the materials before seeing them on your screen.

1. Features

When you are an instructor, you get completely involved in the training session. Therefore, you may miss out to check the waiting room or the chat. However, these are essential features that can help you communicate with your audience. Certain trainees may only be able to communicate via chat since they are on mute. Others may be a bit shy to talk. Hence, if you’re a trainer, keep a lookout for any comments posted there and address them. Additionally, remember the other features that you have at your disposal. For instance, some of these features include polls or raise-hand icons — and several other LMS (Online Learning Management System).

1. Security

It is nearly impossible for an outsider to access what is going on inside the room in an offline training session. However, the same does not apply to video training. Anyone might try to log-in (unauthorised) to the meeting. Therefore, keep private learning classes private. Never share your sessions’ sign-ins openly. Also, make sure that your audience cannot record the materials. You do not want to create opportunities for your competitors to use your content!

Conclusion

You can easily integrate video training into the rest of your training program. By including video training tools provided by a solution like PlayAblo, you can make remote learning a regular piece of your training strategy. Video training is a great technology from the L&D toolbox. It enables you to connect and interact with your workforce from any location. Follow the steps mentioned above and make it a full-fledged practice!