A signature brand can be a color that is recognized as belonging to an item or person. Take McDonalds, for example. McDonalds’ signature colors are red and yellow. Apple’s signature is the apple with a bite missing. For Anna Wintour of Vogue, it is her hair cut. Eyewear has now become an easy way to make a statement and be a brand. For Simon Sinek, it is his colorless eye frames. Consider choosing a color or jewelry pieces that can be worn constantly.

Humor goes a long way towards helping to relax difficult situations and to put everyone at ease. I am by nature a serious person, but I find adding a dash of humor makes the day and a meeting easier. Humor is not always about telling jokes; it is also smiling and looking at the lighter side of things. A laugh once a day makes life a lot easier. “Humor is mankind’s greatest blessing,” said author Mark Twain.

It is easy to be misunderstood in virtual meetings. Facial cues and tone of voice are more difficult to discern. In order to avoid misunderstandings and potential conflict, try to ask questions without making judgements. When differences in opinions or viewpoints arise, offer another point of view as a way to create like thinking. Keeping these tactics in mind during virtual meetings will help to create a strong team.

Most individuals don’t like to see themselves on camera. However, today’s business and social worlds are now being conducted on Zoom, Go to Meeting, and WebEx – just to name a few vehicles. To best prepare for being on one of these platforms, it is important to practice. Set the camera on your phone to video. Record a minute or two of you speaking and presenting your talking points. Record the video in the main location that you will use. Background is important. Watch different programs individuals are making from their homes. Model the ones that would work in your situation. Entertainers are being shown in home situations (kitchens and living rooms). Professional experts on different subjects are presenting from their home offices. Tom Ford has two tips. He suggests having a lamp beside your computer for light and using high definition power to reduce glare on your face.  Always remember to put your best (virtual) foot forward.