LinkedIn video calls allow you to conduct online meetings and interviews directly through the LinkedIn platform. With LinkedIn video calls, you can easily connect face-to-face with your professional network without having to leave LinkedIn. This makes it a great option for conducting informational interviews, screening job candidates, meeting potential clients, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about starting and joining LinkedIn video calls so you can take advantage of this powerful LinkedIn feature.
Prerequisites for LinkedIn Video Calls
Before you can start or join a LinkedIn video call, you’ll need:
- A LinkedIn profile – Make sure you are logged into your LinkedIn account.
- The LinkedIn mobile app – LinkedIn video calls can only be done through the LinkedIn mobile app, which is available for iOS and Android. You cannot access LinkedIn video calling through the desktop site.
- An up-to-date version of the mobile app – Check that you have installed the latest version of the LinkedIn app to ensure access to video calling.
- A steady internet connection – You’ll need a minimum of 2 Mbps upload and download speed for an uninterrupted call. Wifi is recommended for optimal connectivity.
- Allow access to your camera and microphone – The LinkedIn app will ask for permission to access your camera and microphone. Be sure to allow access so the app can detect your audio and video during the call.
As long as you meet these requirements, you should have no trouble starting or joining a LinkedIn video meeting. Keep in mind you can only conduct one-on-one video calls, not group video conferences, through LinkedIn’s platform.
Starting a LinkedIn Video Call
If you want to initiate a video call with someone through LinkedIn, follow these simple steps:
- Open the LinkedIn app and tap on the “My Network” tab at the bottom.
- Find the profile of the person you want to call. This can be a 1st-degree connection or anyone else on LinkedIn.
- Tap on the “Message” icon to open up your messaging thread with that person.
- In the message field, tap on the phone icon with the plus sign to start a new video call.
- The person you are calling will receive a notification inviting them to join the video call. Wait for them to accept the call.
- Once they accept, your video feeds will connect and the call will begin! Chat away.
You’ll also see options to toggle your microphone and camera on/off during the call. When you are finished, tap the red phone icon to end the call.
Tips for a Successful Video Call
Here are some tips to ensure your LinkedIn video call goes smoothly:
- Test your internet connection speed ahead of time using a site like speedtest.net.
- Make sure there is plenty of lighting on your face so the other person can see you clearly.
- Minimize background noise by choosing a quiet spot or using headphones.
- Speak clearly and pause frequently to allow for lag time.
- Mute yourself when not speaking to reduce ambient noise.
- Position your camera at eye level or slightly above for the most flattering angle.
Following basic video call etiquette will create the best experience for you and the person you are connecting with via LinkedIn’s platform.
Joining a LinkedIn Video Call
If someone sends you a LinkedIn video call invite, here is how to answer it:
- When someone tries to call you, you will receive a notification saying “[Name] wants to video call.”
- Tap on the notification or open the LinkedIn app. Go to the Messaging section.
- Find the message from the person calling you. Tap “Join” to accept the video call.
- Allow LinkedIn access to your microphone and camera when prompted.
- Once you accept, both video feeds will connect and the call will begin.
- Chat for as long as you want! Tap the red phone icon when finished.
You can also decline a LinkedIn video call if now is not a good time. The person calling will receive a notification that you declined or missed the call.
LinkedIn Video Call Limitations
While LinkedIn video calling provides a convenient way to conduct video chats through the platform, there are some limitations to be aware of:
- You can only make one-on-one calls, not group calls.
- There is a maximum call duration of 30 minutes per call.
- You cannot share your screen or make a call using a desktop. Mobile app only.
- Call quality depends on each person’s connection speed and device.
- There are no recording capabilities or call transcriptions.
If you require more advanced video conferencing capabilities, you may need to use a dedicated tool like Zoom or Skype. But for quick one-on-one calls, LinkedIn’s video chat function can be very convenient.
Using LinkedIn Video Calls for Business
LinkedIn video calls open up powerful business applications. Here are some of the best ways to use LinkedIn video calling:
Conduct Informational Interviews
Schedule video call meetings with connections in your industry to learn more about their career path, company, and industry insights. It’s a great networking tool.
Screen Job Candidates
Conduct preliminary video interviews with qualified candidates to screen them before an in-person interview.
Meet Potential Clients
Discuss project details, ask qualifying questions, and start building a relationship through an introductory video call.
Collaborate with Remote Team Members
Touch base with remote employees or freelancers through quick video check-ins.
Follow Up After In-Person Meetings
Continue the conversation and strengthen the relationship through follow-up video chats after meeting someone at a conference, event, or company visit.
Share Visual Information
Show designs, products, samples, presentations, or anything else visually through your video screensharing capability.
The applications are endless! LinkedIn video calling removes geography limitations, allowing you to connect face-to-face with your network from anywhere.
Video Call Etiquette Tips
To keep your LinkedIn video calls productive and professional, follow these essential etiquette tips:
Be Punctual
Join the call on time, just as you would for an in-person meeting. Avoid making the other person wait on you.
Minimize Distractions
Find a quiet, distraction-free spot for the video call with proper lighting and minimal background noise.
Mute When Not Speaking
Cut down on ambient noise by muting yourself when you are not talking. This helps keep the call clear for both participants.
Maintain Eye Contact
Look at your camera when speaking, not at the screen. This mimics natural eye contact.
Dress Professionally
Dress as you would for an in-office meeting, even if just visible from the shoulders up on camera.
Be Mindful of Your Background
Make sure your visible background is tidy and professional. Use a virtual background if necessary.
Avoid Multitasking
Refrain from checking emails, texts, etc. Focus fully on the video call so you remain engaged.
Following these tips will ensure you come across as polished, professional, and considerate on any LinkedIn video call.
Conclusion
LinkedIn video calls provide an easy way to conduct face-to-face meetings directly within the LinkedIn platform. With just a few taps in the LinkedIn mobile app, you can connect via live video with your professional connections for calls, interviews, meetings, and more.
To get started with LinkedIn video calling:
- Make sure you have the LinkedIn mobile app downloaded and that your profile is set up.
- For outgoing calls, tap the phone icon in any messaging thread to start a new video call.
- For incoming calls, accept the notification to join the video chat.
- Conduct one-on-one video calls for up to 30 minutes per session.
- Use best practices like proper lighting, minimal noise, and professional dress to put your best foot forward.
With the convenience of built-in video calling, LinkedIn provides powerful new ways to network, interview, meet, and collaborate. So next time you need to conduct business over the web, turn to LinkedIn video calls for an easy face-to-face connection.
