Do you dream of a relaxing vacation, far from the hustle and bustle and curious looks? Discover discreet tips to enjoy your getaways in peace, without attracting attention. Follow the guide for smart advice and enjoy some well-deserved moments of calm during your next vacation.
Whether you call it quiet vacation, hush trip, Or workcation, the objective remains the same: work remotely while enjoying a pleasant destination without your employer noticing. While some employers encourage this type of flexibility, others may be less inclined to accept you joining a meeting from a paradise beach.
Use a virtual background to remain discreet
Taking your laptop to an exotic location while still maintaining a productive work flow may seem difficult to hide, but the virtual backgrounds of Zoom are a godsend. Many remote workers disguise their location by using a picture of their home office. Make sure your photo is of good quality and in a compatible format (GIF, JPG, PNG, MP4 or MOV) for successful integration.
Here are some simple steps to set up a virtual background:
- Upload a photo or video from your desktop.
- Verify that the file is in the correct format and size.
- Update your Zoom preferences to include this virtual background.
- Optional: Use a green screen for a sharper effect.
Other tips for going unnoticed
Besides using virtual backgrounds, there are several clever techniques that can help you stay inconspicuous:
- Use a VPN to match your location to your office location.
- Change your computer’s time to match your regular time zone.
- Attend all meetings and submit your deliverables on time.
In addition to technological tips, a few simple actions can make the difference:
- Take your favorite mug for your video meetings.
- Close the curtains and adjust the lighting to simulate your usual work environment.
- Use headphones with a built-in microphone to avoid background noise.
The importance of connectivity
Make sure you have a strong internet connection and good mobile services where you are staying. Nothing like unstable WiFi or a lack of signal to alert your colleagues that you’re out of the office! Before you leave, test the connection where you are staying and have a plan B, such as a mobile hotspot, in case of problems.
