Video Conference Etiquette

Jim Dines, January 19, 2023

By now, we’re all familiar with meeting online. Today, Zoom has 300 million daily meeting participants, a massive increase from the 10 million daily participants it had in 2019. Clearly, with many employees working from home at least some of the time now, video conferencing is here to stay. And, as we’ve all learned during that time, it comes with its own unique demands versus meeting in person.

Of course, it’s important to present yourself in the best possible light. So, dress the same way you would for an in-person meeting with the same participants (at least on top). Also, put some thought into your background. Nothing too busy! When in doubt, blur your background. Then keep your camera on throughout the meeting. People are more likely to engage when they can see you.

Show respect for your fellow participants by arriving on time. If you’re going to be late, notify them in advance. Don’t multitask during the meeting. You could miss important details. When others talk, listen to what they’re saying. Don’t interrupt or talk over them. It can be confusing when several participants talk at once. Instead, mute yourself when it’s not your turn to speak. Maintain good posture and send non-verbal cues when others are speaking, like nodding and smiling. This will show that you’re engaged.

If you’re leading the meeting, keep it efficient by only inviting team members who are essential, and share notes with the others afterward. Make sure everyone has the join link in advance. Be sure to introduce people who don’t know each other. It will help facilitate open communication. Then set the agenda and keep everyone focused.

See you online soon!