Web Conference Etiquette

Overview

 Web based conference calls and video conferences present unique technical hurdles as well as difficulties with maintaining normal meeting etiquette. Here are some specific tips and considerations to help improve your online meeting experiences. 

Information

Participation 

  • Announce yourself when you join a meeting. It can be awkward to hear the “someone-just-joined” ding followed by silence.  

  • Speak clearly and towards your microphone. Avoid turning your head while speaking.  

  • Focus on the meeting. Avoid staring at your phone, tablet, etc. 

  • Do not eat while in the meeting. It is distracting both to see and/or hear 

  • Do not interrupt other people or attempt to speak over them. Multiple people speaking in a virtual room makes it difficult to understand anyone 

Background Noise 

  • Mute your microphone if you are not speaking

A screenshot of a cell phone Description automatically generated

  • Silence your mobile devices. Turn off all notifications and set your ringers to silent. 

  • Do not shuffle papers or type on the keyboard. Everything can be heard by the other participants.  

  • If you are connecting with two devices (computer and phone), ensure that audio is only enabled on one of the devices or one is muted. 

Video Quality 

  • Avoid having bright lights such as windows or a lamp in the background. These will become overly bright during the meeting. 

  • Make sure your background is professional and work appropriate. This applies to both the physical surroundings and the activities taking place 

  • Place the camera so that you are lit from the front and at a height that is as close to eye level as possible. 

  • If you are using a phone as your camera, keep it steady. Small movements become wild swaying back and forth for others. 

Additional Resources

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