Six simple virtual meeting etiquette

ETIQUETTE

Virtual meeting etiquette is a completely new ball game compared to physical meetings. As the Coronavirus continues to spread, few industries remain intact and virtual meetings have become an essential part of how modern businesses maintain productivity and continuity. To help you keep your meetings productive and professional, follow these six simple virtual meeting etiquette.

Leave the keyboard alone and look at the camera

Whether you’re diligently taking notes like a model employee or sneakily chatting with your work bestie, the sound of your typing is distracting. It’s not only distracting everyone else in the meeting (because your laptop’s internal microphone is inches away from your keyboard), it’s also preventing you from devoting your full attention to the meeting. Opt for a quality headset or pick up your notebook and pen to take meeting notes instead.Look at the camera not your own face or theirs so you seem like you’re making eye contact. Dress appropriately One of the magical things about working remotely is the freedom to wear anything to work. It’s the dream, right? Still, there’s no reason to show your co-workers your pyjamas and bed head. Take a few minutes to throw on a clean shirt and brush your hair. The best part of actually getting ready while working remotely is that you’ll put yourself in the right head space to be productive.

Be aware of surroundings

Your coworkers won’t be able to hear your ideas or take you seriously when there is your a pile of dirty clothes in the corner behind you. You also want to avoid looking like you work from the inside of a cave because of bad lighting. Adjust your work setup so that you face a window or are expose to plenty of light. Make sure your background is professional and work appropriate. This means: No beds (unmade or made) in the background. No messy rooms or open closets where everyone can see your clutter.

Mute your microphone when you’re not talking

There’s nothing more frustrating than hearing that alien echo noise from conflicting microphones. Save everyone from the ear-splitting sound by joining the meeting while on mute! Muting your microphone when you’re not speaking gives other participants the ability to chime in and share their thoughts without distraction or frustration. No food allowed Try to eat a snack before your virtual meeting. No one wants to see you stuff your face with chips while discussing important business matters. Not only is it distracting to others, you won’t be able to focus on the task at hand because you’ll be worrying about dropping crumbs all over your keyboard. Stay seated and stay present It may be tempting to check your inbox or carry on a side conversation during a dull moment in a meeting, but don’t do it! You might missa key information or an opportunity. If you’re using your webcam, use attentive body language: sit up straight, don’t make big extraneous movements, and don’t let your eyes wander too much.