(Amanda Boyce @ ibf.com) China, Mexico, Italy, Brazil, Australia. Not a day goes by when I don’t communicate with friends or peers in those countries and more. From Tweets to Instagram to Chats, the world is literally at your fingertips and for those of us who have loved ones all over the globe, we couldn’t be happier. Which is why we jumped at the chance to learn how to use Skype, the leading video chat platform, more effectively in our everyday lives.

In between demonstrating video-chats in the kitchen with top chefs and learning how an industry leader like Pamela Love uses Skype, it was pretty clear that connecting with friends in our digital world has never been easier. Need to collaborate with a blogging peer? Skype him/her in and get to planning. Working with a brand on a campaign and need to show your pictures/post? You can share your collateral through Skype, no matter the file size.

Embracing Skype into your daily life isn’t hard and with a few tips, you can create conversations that are seamless and productive, regardless of where you and your fellow chatter are.

1. Always run a test for your test Skype calls. There is nothing worse than showing up for your video chat five minutes before showtime and having a major video fail. Like the WIFI won’t work or the background is too busy or the cafe you’re in is way too loud. Prepare yourself by running a test video chat the night before and make sure your settings are adjusted accordingly. You can run a test video chat by clicking on Contacts. The Skype Test Call option is listed in your contacts page so all you have to do is hit call. This test will gauge your video and audio settings, making for a seamless Skype call.

2. Use natural lighting. Forgo the awful fluorescent lighting and set up shop next to a window, if possible. Natural lighting makes your skin tone look more natural and even.