Video Conference Call Etiquette

|   FIND AN EXPRESS LOCATION   |   SEARCH EXPRESS JOBS   |   APPLY NOW   |   HIRING PROCESS   |  

Video Conference Call Etiquette

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, video conferences became even more prevalent in workplaces across the country. Online conferencing can be a great tool to get everyone together in one place despite busy schedules and varying employee locations.

However, video conference calls come with their own share of problems, from technical glitches and everyone talking at once to your dog deciding to bark during a major presentation. Here are a few tips to keep things rolling.

1. Test Your Tech

If you're new to video conferences, thoroughly test your equipment before your first meeting. Most video conferencing platforms allow you to test your microphone and speakers. You want your volume to be just right (not too soft or low), and your speakers (or headphones) to be functioning appropriately.

You'll also want to learn the ins and outs of whatever meeting software you're using. If you have any difficulties figuring out what all those buttons do, a quick online search can usually help out.

2. Prepare Your Space

Now that you have all the technical stuff out of the way, it's time to prep your space. If you have any pets, you'll want to put them in a different room so they don't end up interrupting the call. And if you're living with family or roommates, let them know when the call is in order to avoid any awkward interruptions. 

3. Be Attentive

This one sounds obvious, but it's harder than it sounds. It's tough to get distracted in an in-person meeting because there isn't really anything to do. But in a video conference, you're only a few clicks away from updating your social media or watching a hilarious YouTube video. Since you can't see your co-workers while you're engaging in those activities, you might think they can't see you either. But the camera catches all your reactions. 

Similarly, try not to disable your video sharing unless you absolutely have to-it can make it seem like you don't care enough to be present for the call. 

4. Use the Mute (and Unmute) Button

Muting yourself is important because you don't want the clickety-clack of your keyboard to interrupt someone's presentation. The same goes for unmuting before talking, since nobody wants to be the person talking at length for a whole minute when nobody can hear them. If you keep forgetting, consider writing a sticky note reminder and sticking it on your computer screen.

5. Dress Appropriately

Even though you might be working from home, you don't want to look like you just rolled out of bed. Keep a nice shirt handy and look your best. 

And that's that! Everything else is pretty much the same as a normal in-person meeting. Make eye contact, smile, be professional, etc. Have fun!