Adjusting the settings on Zoom can significantly improve the quality of your virtual gatherings and increase their level of interaction. In this piece, I will provide a walkthrough on how to modify your view on Zoom and also share my own insights and observations.
1. Speaker View vs. Gallery View
By default, Zoom displays the video feeds of all participants in the gallery view, where each participant is represented as a thumbnail. However, you can switch to speaker view, which focuses on the person currently speaking and makes their video feed larger.
Personally, I prefer using the speaker view during large meetings or webinars, as it helps me stay focused on the main speaker. However, in smaller meetings or social gatherings, the gallery view allows me to see everyone and their reactions, creating a more inclusive atmosphere.
2. Switching Views During a Meeting
During a Zoom meeting, you can easily switch between speaker view and gallery view. To switch to speaker view, click on the “Speaker View” option at the top right corner of the screen. To switch back to gallery view, click on the “Gallery View” option.
I find myself switching between the views depending on the context of the meeting. When there are multiple presenters or panelists, the speaker view helps me focus on the person currently speaking. On the other hand, when the meeting is more casual or interactive, the gallery view allows me to see everyone’s reactions and easily engage with others.
3. Pinning a Participant
Another useful feature in Zoom is the ability to pin a participant’s video to the main screen, regardless of whether they are speaking or not. This is particularly helpful when you want to keep an eye on a specific person throughout the meeting.
To pin a participant, hover over their video feed and click on the three-dot menu icon. From the menu that appears, select “Pin Video.” The pinned participant’s video will now be displayed prominently on your screen.
I often use the pinning feature when I am collaborating closely with a teammate or when I want to closely follow someone’s reactions during a presentation or training session.
Conclusion
Changing your view on Zoom can greatly enhance your video meetings and make them more personalized and interactive. Whether you prefer the speaker view to focus on the main presenter or the gallery view to see everyone’s reactions, Zoom offers various options to cater to your needs. Additionally, pinning a participant’s video allows you to keep an eye on someone specific throughout the meeting.
Experiment with different viewing options in Zoom to find what works best for you in different meeting scenarios. Remember, adapting your view can significantly improve your overall meeting experience and help you stay engaged with the participants.