As a freelance artist, journalist and educator I conduct the majority of my meetings remotely. Although I use a range of different methods of communication, the most common tool I use is Skype. A voice-over-Internet Protocol service and software application originally created by Niklas Zennström, Skype is free to download. With over 660 million users worldwide, it is an incredibly popular method of communicating with peers via voice, video, and instant messaging over the Internet.

Here are my 10 useful tips for artists and freelancers using Skype:

1. Skype profile – Make sure any information included in this (your image, location, status etc.) is appropriate for your business.
2. Send a message first – It is polite to ask if someone is free to chat before starting a call. Quite often people forget to alter their status to ‘away’, ‘do not disturb’ or ‘offline’. A quick message is less disruptive than calling them.
3. Check before making a video call – Although video calls can enhance the sociability of a call, not everyone is a fan. Some people can find it a bit off-putting and prefer audio calls. If you plan on making a video call, make it clear beforehand. Otherwise you might get a nasty view of someone still in their pyjamas!
4. Keep it orderly – When in group conferences, designate somebody to chair the meeting. There is nothing worse than 3 or 4 people talking over one another trying to get their point across. Take it in turns and make sure everyone’s voice is heard.
5. Stick to your aims and objectives – Create an agenda and try not to deviate from it. Ask yourself: are we really here to talk about what we each had for tea last night?
6. Be time efficient – Assess what is the best method of communication. A query such as “What time does the event start on Wednesday” can probably be answered quickly using Skype’s Instant Message (or your own research!) rather than having a full-blown Skype call. Also, if you have agreed to Skype for one hour, stick to this time scale.
7. Dodgy internet connections – As much as we would like to claim that digital networks are efficient, how many times have you encountered a sudden drop in internet connection? If your Skype call gets cut off, simply re-dial and try again. If problems persist, consider re-scheduling. Also, do not assume someone is being rude if they suddenly hang up. Chances are the connection simply failed.
8. Multitasking – Skype is great at allowing you to perform a multitude of tasks at the same time as calling. However, be aware that most laptop microphones are quite sensitive. Common disruptive sounds include: typing, breathing heavily and slurping drinks. People may not be able to see you but they sure can hear you!
9. Use headphones – Skype sometimes struggles with noise loops (when noise from your computer’s speakers gets picked up by its microphone). An easy way of avoiding feedback is by plugging in a pair of headphones.
10. Cross promotion – Include your Skype address on your blog, Twitter feed and email. Make it as easy as possible for people to contact you. Remember – there might be paid work at the end of it!