When you gain some focus, address the technical breakdown openly with your audience. Look at the camera and speak in a casual tone as if talking to a friend. "I just want to let all of you know that my screen just went black..."

If you own that you are experiencing a technical issue, that it is out of your control, and that technical problems are acceptable, you will come across as more human and someone people can relate to.

When a personal connection has been made with your audience, a little lighthearted joke is a perfect way to make the situation less awkward.

The goal is to break the tension. For example, if your roommate strides into the background playing his invisible guitar, say, "He'll be taking questions and signing autographs. Next slide, please."

There may be times when you can't solve a technical problem, and you simply need to end your meeting.

In this case, apologise for the situation that is out of your control and explain that you will email everyone to reschedule once the issue is resolved. If it can't be rescheduled, consider some form of compensation.