If you’re an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), you know how important video calls are. They’re your lifeline to home, your way to see your family’s smiles, and feel connected even when you’re miles away. But let’s be honest, sometimes those video calls can be a bit… frustrating. Dropped calls, blurry pictures, and muffled voices can make you feel even more distant. This article is all about how to make your video calls the best they can be, so you can truly connect with your loved ones back home.
Setting Up for Success: Your Tech Basics
Okay, let’s start with the basics. You can’t have a great video call if your tech isn’t up to par. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t try to drive a car with flat tires, right? Same goes for your gadgets and internet.
Choosing the Right Device
First things first: what are you using to make your video calls? Is it your phone, your tablet, or your laptop? Each one has its pros and cons. Phones are convenient, but the screen might be small. Tablets offer a bigger screen, which is great for seeing everyone’s faces. Laptops usually have better cameras and microphones, but they’re not as portable. The best choice really depends on what you prefer and what you already have. A newer device usually has better camera quality, so if you are budgeting for a new device, make sure this is a consideration. Many OFWs prefer tablets for video calls because they are easy to prop-up while they are cooking or busy. Also, consider the storage space to accommodate video call apps.
Internet is King (or Queen!)
Next up: your internet connection. This is the most important thing, hands down. A slow or unreliable internet connection can ruin even the best video call. Think of it as the road your video call travels on. If the road is bumpy, the ride will be rough. Test your internet speed regularly. You can use websites like Speedtest.net to see how fast your download and upload speeds are. For a decent video call, you’ll want at least 2 Mbps (megabits per second) upload and download speed but ideally 5 Mbps or higher is recommended. For High Definition video calls, you will want a stable 10 Mbps. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try to be as close to the router as possible. Walls and other objects can weaken the signal. Consider investing in a Wi-Fi repeater or extender if your signal is weak in some areas of your house.
Many OFWs rely on mobile data. Check your data plan and make sure you have enough data for your video calls. Video calls can eat up a lot of data quickly. Also, be aware that internet speed varies especially during peak hours in your location. It’s like rush hour on the internet highway. Try to schedule your video calls during off-peak times if possible.
Camera and Microphone Check
Once you have a stable internet connection, check your camera and microphone. Make sure your camera lens is clean. A smudged lens can make your video look blurry. Before your first call, do a test recording. Most smartphones and laptops have a camera app or recording feature. Use it to record yourself talking and moving around. Then, watch the recording to see how you look and sound. If the camera quality is not good, consider buying external webcam for your laptop or pc. If your microphone is not clear, try using headsets with built in microphones, typically these have active noise cancellation to ensure clear communication.
Choosing the Right App: Finding Your Video Calling Soulmate
There are tons of video calling apps out there. It can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But don’t worry! We’ll break it down into simple choices.
Popular Options and Their Perks
Some of the most popular video calling apps include:
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. WhatsApp is great for simple and quick calls with family, especially since many Filipinos already use it. Facebook Messenger is another popular choice, especially if you’re already active on Facebook. Viber offers features like Viber Out, which lets you call landlines and mobile numbers even if the other person doesn’t have Viber. For more professional or large group calls, Zoom and Google Meet are excellent choices. To save on data, you may want to find out which video call app uses the least amount of data, so you can maximize and extend your video call time. A 2018 study by the University of Manchester benchmarked various video call apps such as Skype, Hangouts, Facetime, WhatsApp, Line and found differences in the data consumption. The study can be found on ResearchGate.
Things to Consider When Choosing
When choosing an app, think about these things:
It’s a good idea to experiment with a few different apps to see which one works best for you and your family. After all, a video call is meant to be a shared experience; if one party continues to have problems with an app, find one that works best for everyone. Also, consider the data usage based on each app.
Tips for a Smooth App Experience
No matter which app you choose, here are some tips for a smooth experience:
By doing these things, you can ensure that you have a great experience with whatever video calling app you choose.
Creating the Perfect Environment: Setting the Scene for Connection
Now that you have the tech and the app sorted out, let’s talk about your environment. Where you are and what’s around you can make a big difference in how enjoyable your video call is.
Location, Location, Location!
Choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Background noise can be very distracting and can make it hard to hear each other. Think of it like trying to have a conversation in a busy market. Find a room or area that’s away from the noise. If you live in a shared accommodation, you may want to consider headphones for added privacy and noise reduction. If you have to be in a noisy environment, consider using headphones with noise-canceling features.
Lighting is Key
Good lighting can make you look better on camera. Natural light is usually the best option. Sit facing a window so the light shines on your face. Avoid sitting with your back to a window, as this can create a silhouette effect. If you don’t have access to natural light, use a lamp or overhead light to brighten up your face. Avoid harsh overhead lighting, which can cast shadows. If you have the budget, buy ring lights that are designed to give balanced light for video calls.
Background Check
Pay attention to what’s behind you. A cluttered or messy background can be distracting. Try to find a simple and tidy background. A blank wall is always a good option. You can also use a virtual background if your video calling app supports it. Be careful with virtual backgrounds, though, as they can sometimes look unnatural or glitchy.
Making the Most of Your Call: Communication is More Than Just Talking
So, you’re all set up and ready to go. Now, let’s talk about how to make the most of your video call.
Be Present and Engaged
Put away your phone or other distractions. Give your family your full attention. Video calls are a chance to connect emotionally, so be present in the moment. Listen actively to what your family members are saying. Ask questions and show that you’re interested.
Visual Cues Matter
Remember that your body language is just as important as your words. Smile, make eye contact (look at the camera), and use gestures to show that you’re engaged. Even though you’re not physically there, you can still communicate through your body language. And don’t forget to show your emotions. Let your family see how happy you are to see them. Show them that you miss them. Sometimes, a simple “I miss you” can mean the world. If you are video calling with small children, keep in mind of their limited attention span. Have a toy or some fun objects nearby to get their attention.
Plan Activities Together
Don’t just talk about the weather. Plan activities that you can do together during the video call. You can eat a meal together, watch a movie together (using a screen-sharing feature), or play a game together. This can make the video call more engaging and fun for everyone. Read a story to the kids. Sing a song together. Show them around your house or apartment. The possibilities are endless. According to Statista, digital activities that can be shared with your loved ones may include online games and events. You can read more about the digital activities that can be done together at statista.com.
Handling Technical Issues Gracefully
Let’s face it: technical issues happen. The video might freeze, the audio might cut out, or the app might crash. Don’t panic! Just stay calm and try to fix the problem. If the problem is on your end, try restarting your device or your internet router. If the problem is on the other end, be patient and understanding. Remember that everyone is trying their best. Often the simplest solutions–like restarting the video call or ending it and starting a new one–are the most effective.
Managing Time Zone Differences: Making Schedules Work
One of the biggest challenges for OFWs who make video calls is time zone differences. It can be tricky to find a time that works for everyone.
Understanding the Difference
First, make sure you understand the time zone difference between your location and the Philippines. You can use websites like TimeAndDate.com to easily convert times. Keep in mind that the Philippines does not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference will remain constant throughout the year.
Finding a Time That Works for Everyone
Be flexible and willing to compromise. If you’re working during the day, try to schedule your video calls in the evening or on weekends. If your family back home is sleeping when you’re awake, try to schedule your video calls early in the morning or late at night. Consider different family members’ schedules when you choose a time. Consider the ages of children and bedtimes.
Using Scheduling Tools
Use online scheduling tools to make it easier to find a time that works for everyone. Google Calendar and other calendar apps let you create events and invite other people. The app will automatically convert the time to each person’s time zone. If you have a large family or group of friends, consider using a group scheduling tool like Doodle. These tools let you create a poll and have everyone vote on the best time.
Being Mindful of Holidays and Special Occasions
Don’t forget about holidays and special occasions. Make sure to schedule a video call on birthdays, anniversaries, and other important dates. Even if you can’t be there in person, a video call can help you feel like you’re part of the celebration. With proper planning and consideration, you can ensure that you don’t miss out on these special moments.
Saving Money on Calls: Smart Spending for Staying Connected
Video calls can be expensive, especially if you’re using mobile data. Here are some tips on how to save money on your video calls:
Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi
Look for places that offer free Wi-Fi, such as cafes, libraries, or community centers. Many airports and train stations also offer free Wi-Fi. Just be sure to use a secure Wi-Fi network to protect your personal information. Avoid using public Wi-fi for video calls involving sensitive information.
Consider a Data Plan
If you’re using mobile data, consider getting a data plan that includes a large amount of data. Some mobile providers offer special data plans for international calls and video calls. Shop around and compare different plans to find the best deal. Calculate how much data you typically use for video calls and choose a plan that meets your needs. According to a report by Datareportal, average mobile data usage has increased. Check out more details on Datareportal.com.
Use Data-Saving Features
Many video calling apps offer data-saving features. These features reduce the amount of data used during the call, which can help you save money. Look for options like “low data mode” or “data saver” in the app settings. Understand that using data saving features reduces the video quality.
Talk with Your Family
Discuss together so everyone can share their best solutions. Perhaps plan a group budget. Talk to your family back home about ways to save money on their end as well. They can use free Wi-Fi or choose a more affordable data plan. It’s a team effort, after all.
By following these tips, you can stay connected with your family without breaking the bank.
Troubleshooting Common Problems: Solving Tech Headaches Together
No matter how well you plan, technical problems can still happen. Here are some common problems that OFWs face during video calls and how to fix them:
Poor Video Quality
If the video quality is poor, try these solutions:
Audio Issues
If you’re having trouble hearing each other, try these solutions:
Connection Problems
If you’re experiencing dropped calls or connection problems, try these solutions:
Remember that troubleshooting can be a collaborative effort. Don’t be afraid to ask your family members for help. They might have some ideas that you haven’t thought of. Together, you can overcome these technical challenges and enjoy your video calls.
Building Stronger Relationships: Beyond the Pixels and Sound
Video calls are a great way to stay connected with your family, but they’re not a replacement for real-life interactions. Here are some ways to build stronger relationships with your family, even when you’re far away:
Be Present and Engaged
When you’re on a video call, be fully present and engaged. Put away your phone and other distractions. Listen actively to what your family members are saying. Make eye contact and smile. Show them that you care.
Share Your Life
Don’t just talk about the weather. Share your life with your family. Tell them about your work, your friends, and your hobbies. Show them pictures and videos of your surroundings. Let them feel like they’re part of your life. It is important to continue sharing precious milestones with each other.
Listen and Offer Support
Be a good listener. Let your family members vent their frustrations and share their worries. Offer support and encouragement. Let them know that you’re there for them, even though you’re far away.
Plan Visits
If possible, plan visits back home. Even a short visit can make a big difference in your relationships. Start saving up for your ticket and plan your vacation ahead of time. Make sure the family knows that you are seriously planning a visit.
By following these tips, you can build stronger and deeper relationships with your family, even when you’re miles apart.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about video calls for OFWs:
What is the best video calling app for OFWs?
There’s no single “best” app, as it depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like ease of use, data usage, video quality, and cost. Popular options include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, Zoom, and Google Meet. Experiment with a few different apps to see which one works best for you and your family.
How can I improve my video call quality?
Ensure you have a stable and strong internet connection. Use good lighting, position yourself in a quiet environment, and clean your camera lens. Close any unnecessary apps running in the background that may be slowing down your device. Consider using an external microphone or headset for better audio quality.
How much data does a video call use?
Data usage varies depending on the app, video quality, and length of the call. Low-quality video calls typically use less data than high-quality calls. Some apps offer data-saving features that can help reduce data consumption. As a general estimate, a one-hour video call can use anywhere from 300MB to 1GB of data.
How can I save money on video calls?
Take advantage of free Wi-Fi whenever possible. Consider getting a data plan with a large amount of data. Use data-saving features in your video calling app. Schedule your calls during off-peak hours when internet traffic is lower. Talk to your family about ways to save money on their end as well.
What should I do if I’m having technical problems during a video call?
Stay calm and try to troubleshoot the problem. Check your internet connection, restart your device, and close any unnecessary apps. If the problem persists, try switching to a different video calling app or contacting technical support.
References
University of Manchester, Benchmarking Energy Consumption of Video Conferencing Applications on Mobile Devices (2018)
Datareportal, Digital Activities (2023)
Don’t let distance keep you from connecting with your loved ones. Start making amazing video calls today! Consider getting a new device if you need one, get data plan upgrades, and make sure to set the time for a fantastic video call with your family. Start connecting with the people who matter most.
