5 Tips for Providing Effective Video Help Sessions

Connecting with someone via video to provide assistance is a uniquely rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re helping someone troubleshoot technical issues, teaching a new skill, or providing professional consultation, these five tips will help ensure your video help sessions are effective and enjoyable for everyone involved.

1. Prepare Your Environment

Before starting a video help session, take a moment to prepare your physical space:

  • Check your lighting - Make sure your face is clearly visible without harsh shadows
  • Minimize background noise - Find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted
  • Consider what’s visible - A neutral, non-distracting background helps keep the focus on you and your guidance
  • Test your equipment - Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working properly

A well-prepared environment helps establish professionalism and eliminates distractions that might interfere with the help session.

2. Listen First, Solve Second

When someone reaches out for help, they often want to explain their situation before receiving advice. Practice active listening:

  • Let them fully explain their problem without interruption
  • Ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand the issue
  • Repeat the problem back to them to confirm your understanding
  • Only then begin offering solutions

This approach ensures you’re solving the actual problem rather than making assumptions about what help is needed.

3. Use Visual Aids When Possible

One advantage of video help is that you can show rather than just tell. Utilize:

  • Screen sharing to demonstrate digital processes step by step
  • Physical demonstrations for hands-on tasks
  • Annotation tools to highlight important elements
  • Reference materials that you can display during the session

Visual learning is powerful and often helps information stick better than verbal instructions alone.

4. Check Understanding Frequently

Throughout your session, regularly check that the person you’re helping understands what you’re explaining:

  • Pause after explaining major concepts and ask if they have questions
  • Have them summarize what you’ve explained in their own words
  • Watch for non-verbal cues that might indicate confusion
  • Encourage them to try tasks themselves while you observe

This prevents the frustration that comes when someone pretends to understand but is actually lost.

5. End With Clear Next Steps

Always conclude your help session with clarity about what happens next:

  • Summarize what was accomplished during the session
  • Outline any steps they should take after the call ends
  • Provide resources for further learning or assistance
  • Make it clear how they can reach you if they have follow-up questions

Clear next steps ensure that the help you’ve provided translates into real results after the call ends.

Ready to Start Helping Others?

Effective video help sessions create valuable experiences that can lead to repeat sessions and positive reviews on the Wizelp platform. By implementing these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a highly sought-after helper in your area of expertise.

Have your own tips for effective video help? We’d love to hear them in the comments below!