How To Use Zoom: It’s Like The Brady Bunch Opening But with Your Actual Family

Remember the good old days when “zooming” meant putting on your favorite pair of polyester bell bottoms and grooving to disco?

Well, times have changed, and now “Zooming” means something entirely different – but it’s just as groovy, baby!

Welcome to the 21st century, where ZoomZoom is a versatile video conferencing platform that enables users to connect and collaborate remote... More can mean sitting in your favorite recliner, wearing your comfiest slippers, and suddenly you’re face-to-face with your grandkids from across the country.

No, it’s not magic (though it might feel like it at first). It’s Zoom, the video chatVideo chat is a communication method that enables real-time, face-to-face interactions between indiv... More appAn app, short for application, is a type of software designed to help users perform specific tasks o... More that’s taking the world by storm faster than you can say “far out!”

So, let’s dive in and get you Zooming like a pro!

What is Zoom and Why You Should Use It?

Zoom is a video conferencing app that’s taken the world by storm. Originally popular for business meetings, the COVID pandemic helped make Zoom a favorite for families and friends to connect virtually.

Think of it as making a telephone call, but instead of just hearing voices, you can see the beautiful faces of your loved ones right on your screen.

It’s like having a family reunion without the hassle of cleaning the house or cooking for an army.

Getting Started with Zoom: It’s Easier Than Learning the Macarena!

Downloading the Zoom App

First things first, you need the Zoom app. Don’t worry; it’s easier than getting through a holiday without at least one family argument.

On a Laptop or Computer:

1. Open your web browser and go to zoom.us.
2. Click on “Sign Up, It’s Free” in the top right corner. Enter your birth year (because apparently, Zoom likes to know you’re old enough to drive), then your email address, and click “Sign Up.
3. Check your emailEmail, or electronic mail, is a digital communication tool that allows users to send and receive mes... More for a confirmation message from Zoom. Click the linkA link, or hyperlink, is a tool used in electronic documents and websites to jump from one online lo... More in the email to create your account.
4. Visit zoom.us/download and click “Download"Download" is a term used to describe the process of copying files from the internet or another remo... More” under Zoom Client for Meetings. Once downloaded, open the file and install it.

On an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the App Store and search for “Zoom.”
2. Tap “Get” or “Install” next to the Zoom Cloud"The cloud" refers to storage and services that are accessed over the internet instead of being stor... More Meetings app. Authenticate with your Apple ID or Face ID.
3. Open the app and either sign in or sign up if you don’t have an account.

On an AndroidAndroid, developed by Google, is a versatile and user-friendly operating system that powers billions... More Device:

1. Open the Google Play StoreThe Google Play Store is an online marketplace for digital content, including apps, games, movies, m... More and search for “Zoom.”
2. Tap “Install” next to the Zoom Cloud Meetings app.
3. Open the app and either sign in or sign up if you don’t have an account.

Congratulations! You’re now officially a Zoomer. No, not the kind that races around on a mobility scooter (though those are pretty cool too).

Now that you’ve got an account, it’s time to make your first Zoom call!

Your Zoom First Call: Lights, Camera, Action!

Starting a Call:

1. Open the Zoom app on your device.
2. Click on “New Meeting” to start a call. Make sure your camera and microphone are on – we want to see and hear you!
3. To invite others, click “Participants” and then “Invite.” You can send the meeting link via email or text.

Joining a Call:

1. Click on the meeting link sent by your host, or open Zoom and click “Join.”
2. Enter the meeting ID and passwordA password is a string of characters used to verify the identity of a user during the authentication... More if prompted. Voilà! You’re in.

Using Key Zoom Features

Turning on Your Camera: Make sure you’re not just a mysterious black box on the screen. Click “Start Video” at the bottom left corner so everyone can see your smiling face.

Muting/Unmuting Yourself: Got a noisy background? Click “Mute” to avoid sharing the sound of your neighbor’s lawnmower. Just don’t forget to unmute when you’re ready to speak.

Chat Feature: Want to send a quick message during the call? Click the “Chat” button and type away. It’s like passing notes in class but without the risk of detention.

Ending the Call: When you’re ready to leave, click the red “End” button. It’s as simple as hanging up the phone but with fewer tangled cords.

Tips for Effective Zooming

1. Find a Quiet Spot: Background noise can be distracting. Choose a quiet area for your calls.
2. Good Lighting: Sit facing a window or light source. We want to see you, not a shadowy figure!
3. Camera Position: Place your camera at eye level. No one wants to look up your nose.
4. Mute When Not Speaking: It helps to avoid background noise and makes the meeting smoother for everyone.
5. Test Your Equipment: Before the call, check your camera and microphone to ensure everything works.

The Zoom World Is Your Oyster

So there you have it, folks – your ticket to the wonderful world of Zoom.

It’s time to connect with your loved ones, join virtual bingo nights, or even start that online knitting club you’ve always dreamed of.

The Zoom world is your oyster, and you’re about to become the pearl of video chatting. Now go forth and Zoom with confidence, you tech-savvy senior, you!

Happy Zooming!