Your first video chat with a stranger: 10 tips

By the Otrigal team · Updated 6 November 2026 · 5 min read

What will actually happen

Knowing what to expect takes away most of the nerves. After you sign in and press Start, your browser asks to use your camera and microphone. Then you wait a few moments while Otrigal looks for someone. When you are matched, the other person's video appears, and you can both see and hear each other right away.

Many first chats are very short. Someone may skip you within seconds, and you may do the same. That is simply how random chat works, and it is not a judgment on you. After a few chats you will stop noticing it. Every so often you will meet someone you really enjoy talking to, and that is what makes it worthwhile.

Set up

1. Check your background. Remove anything private: mail, photos, ID cards, a window with a street view.
2. Use good light. Face a window or lamp so people can see you.
3. Test camera and microphone. Use headphones if you can, so there is no echo.
4. Keep your details off screen. No name tags, uniforms or school logos.

Start the chat

5. Smile and say hello. Then ask one easy question, like "Where are you from?"
6. Say it if you are nervous. "It is my first time here" is honest, and most people respond kindly.
7. Listen more than you talk. Follow up on what they say.

Need ideas? See 50 conversation starters.

Handle awkward moments

8. Silence is fine. Ask a new question or change the topic.
9. Skip any time. You do not owe anyone a long chat. Click skip and move on.
10. Report anything wrong. If someone is rude or makes you uncomfortable, skip and report.

What you may see, and what to do

It is better to know this before you start. Rules forbid nudity and sexual behavior, and automated checks look for it, but no system catches everything. If you see something you did not want to see, do not stop to think about it: skip, then report. That takes two seconds and helps protect the next person. Here is how reports work.

Remember too that the other person could record the call, even though you cannot tell. Show only what you would be happy for a stranger to keep.

After your first few chats

Do not judge it by your first five minutes. Try a few chats, and try different times of day. Evenings are often busier. Once you feel comfortable, the small things start to make a difference, like how you say hello and whether you ask a second question. Our guide to random chat etiquette covers these in a few minutes.

Not ready for video?

You can start with text chat and move to video chat when you feel ready. There is no rush. Our video vs text guide can help you choose, and if your camera will not start, here is how to fix it.

Keep it safe

Do not share your full name, address, school, workplace or phone number. Never send money. Do not click links from people you just met, and do not agree to meet in person. Read the full safety guide.

Frequently asked questions

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