Are you currently working remote or working with colleagues across the globe? Videoconferences are a great way to bring together a team or group of people to discuss upcoming projects, strategies and deadlines when you can’t be together in one place. As compared to a conference call, videoconferences have their own set of dos and don’ts that you will need to familiarize yourself with to find success.
Do get dressed, and not just waist up
It may be tempting to put on a nice shirt and jacket or blouse and stay in sweatpants on the bottom but be sure to get dressed fully. During a videoconference, you may need to stand up and get something, or the camera angle might shift, exposing your casual choice of pants. Of course, there is no need to be in a full suit, depending on the occasion of course, but being dressed in something you would be comfortable going to work in on a casual day is appropriate for most videoconferences. Also be sure to brush your hair, wash your face etc. as you would before going out in public (no bed head here).
Don’t take the call from bed
Before your videoconference, find a quiet place in your house where you can take the call (we advise against sitting on your bed). Whether you choose a corner in your living room, your kitchen table, or even utilize your dresser as a standing desk, find a place with a clean background that looks professional and promotes good posture. Get creative with it without showing your colleagues your bedroom.
Don’t wait until the last minute to log in
Technical difficulties can pop up at any second. Be sure to log in at least 2 minutes prior to the videoconference call to ensure you have the correct username and password and link to join. This will also give you enough time to alert someone in the meeting if you are experiencing issues and reach out to IT.
Do make sure that your audio is properly hooked up
If you are planning on using headphones for videoconference audio or a speaker, be sure that they are setup prior to the meeting. You wouldn’t want to miss a question or opportunity to voice an idea because you were in the meeting but couldn’t hear or be heard.
Don’t slouch
There are a few things seen in the box of your camera, and your posture is one of them. Sit (or stand) up straight and make sure that the camera is set up at a flattering and appropriate angle. This will also help you to look into the camera rather than looking around, which can make it seem like you are not paying attention.
Do mute yourself when not speaking
At home there can be unforeseen sounds or background noise that interrupt your videoconference. Be sure to mute yourself when you are not speaking as to not have distractions during the call. Just be sure to remember to unmute yourself when you are about to speak!
Do speak clearly
Our last piece of video conference etiquette is speak clearly! Enunciating has never been more important than when it comes to videoconference etiquette. Carefully articulate your words and speak clearly so that even if the internet connection is poor, your team can hear you. Speaking clearly will also help keep others from interrupting you and vice versa.
24 Seven Can Help You
Is your company utilizing more video technology? Have they recently adopted a remote work model? Click here for our full guide to working from home.We hope these tips have helped you think about your approach to videoconferencing, and we have many other articles in our blog about professional issues that you will find useful. If you are searching for a job, as a full-time employee or freelancer, 24 Seven can connect you with top-notch companies looking for your skills and experience.