12 Technology Tips for Virtual Meet-and-Greets

Pulling off successful virtual meet-and-greets is critical to finding homes for animals during times of social distancing. Consider these tips to avoid technical difficulties.

Cell phone

• Make sure you have a strong cell signal at least 3 bars, but 4-5 is optimal.
• Connect to WIFI when possible, and make sure you have at least 3-5 bars of WIFI signal.
• Close all the apps you aren’t using (i.e., Facebook, browser, banking app, etc.).
• Make sure your device is fully charged and that you're close to an outlet with your charger in case you need it.
• Avoid walking around too much or making sudden movements.

Laptop

• Make sure you are close to your WIFI router or plugged into your router. Plugging in will give the most stable connection.
• Make sure your battery is fully charged and plugged into an electrical outlet if possible.
• Close all the apps and windows on your laptop, except what is needed.

General tips 

• Don’t get too fancy with the plugins (i.e., changing Zoom backgrounds).
• If possible, use a headset instead of a speaker, so it’s easier to block out background noise—and make sure you turn off all noise-making devices and notify anyone around you to refrain from being loud. 
• Use computer audio rather than phone, even if it's a landline—the sound quality and video sync are better. 
• Test your connection ahead of time – make a call to someone you know to test your physical location for good signal strength and if there’s any background noise you may not notice (i.e., construction outside your window, wind, keyboard typing, etc.).

Learn about technology resources to consider when doing virtual adoptions.