First American Equipment Finance has completed more than 30,000 web-based video meetings during the last 5 years; here is what we’ve learned

FAIRPORT, NY – March 16, 2020 – As millions of Americans shift to a work-from-home environment, First American is sharing best practices its 265 colleagues have learned while collaborating with clients and colleagues via video.

First American has long been a leader in equipping a mobile-enabled workforce. It operates a digital-first equipment finance operation and serves clients in all 50 states. In the past 5 years, First American has conducted more than 30,000 web-based video meetings with clients.

For people conducting the majority of their business meetings via video for the first time, First American offers these 7 tips for successful virtual communications.

1. Turn on your camera. Video communication is the key to making a human connection with clients and coworkers – a vital connection that is more important now than ever. In your next meeting, encourage your co-workers to enable their cameras, as studies show that 93% of communication is non-verbal.
2. Brighten the day. Make sure the lighting in front of you is brighter than the lighting behind you. If you have a window nearby, face the window instead of having it in the background. This will ensure your image is clear and crisp to the other participants.
3. Look behind you. Ensure you have a professional background for virtual meetings. If working from home, consider a background wall with pictures or shelves. Don’t take this too seriously, if co-workers have a glimpse into your home, it enhances the human connection.
4. Elevate your camera. Raise your camera and/or laptop to eye level for face-to-face communications, avoiding the awkward and unflattering low camera angles.
5. Lights! Camera! Action! Keep your energy level high and your speaking cadence natural. Remember that this is a person-to-person conversation. When listening, make an extra effort to nod or make non-verbal cues, instead of multi-tasking.
6. Speak into the dot. Many people struggle with this one. When speaking, look into the camera lens. The moment you begin your remarks, the rest of the meeting will look at your image. Enhance that experience for everyone by looking into the camera.
7. Take 5. Minutes, that is. Carve out time prior to your video meeting to prepare and test all equipment and connectivity, look at yourself on screen, critically examine your background, and make certain you have access to all documents and files you need to conduct business.

First American is nationally recognized as a Best Workplace, and the company grew new business volume from $330 million in 2014 to more than $1.37 billion in 2019. The company pioneered a truly digital end-to-end client experience, from initial video meetings to online project management. The company combines these digital experiences with expert service, delivered by client industry specialists.

ABOUT FIRST AMERICAN EQUIPMENT FINANCE

First American Equipment Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Los Angeles, CA-based City National Bank, an RBC Company. First American is ranked among the largest equipment finance companies in the United States and provides commercial equipment financing to the most creditworthy and sophisticated commercial borrowers in the country.

First American has been recognized by FORTUNE and Great Place to Work as a Best Midsize Workplace, Best in New York, Best in Financial Services, Best for Millennials, Best for Women, Best for Giving Back, and Best for New Grads. Entrepreneur Magazine named First American as a Top Company Culture, and Best Companies Group named First American as the #1 Best Company to Work For in New York for two years running.