In today’s remote-first world, virtual meetings have become the norm. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to online collaboration, following virtual meeting etiquette can make a significant difference in ensuring effective communication, building strong professional relationships, and minimizing misunderstandings. This guide will walk you through the essential dos and don’ts to make the most out of every online meeting.
Before you join a virtual meeting, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring things run smoothly.
Ensure the meeting has a purpose and an agenda. This helps participants understand what to expect and prepare accordingly. Circulate the agenda ahead of time, highlighting key points or topics that require input.
Technical difficulties can disrupt a meeting, so make sure your equipment (camera, microphone, internet) is working correctly. Test your setup before the meeting, and if you’re presenting, ensure that all files and applications are ready to go.
Background noise can be distracting. Choose a quiet, well-lit space to join your meeting, ideally with minimal interruptions. If you're in a shared space, consider using a pair of headphones with a noise-canceling microphone.
When it’s time to join, a few best practices can help set a professional tone right from the start.
Punctuality shows respect for others’ time. Aim to join a few minutes early to handle any last-minute technical issues and ensure a prompt start.
Even though you’re working remotely, dressing professionally helps set a positive tone and communicates respect for your colleagues. If the meeting is more casual, make sure your attire is still appropriate for work.
Joining the meeting with your full name (instead of “iPhone” or “User123”) helps everyone know who’s who, especially in larger meetings. It also gives you a more professional appearance.
Once the meeting starts, your behavior and communication can significantly impact its effectiveness and flow.
Keep your microphone muted when you’re not talking to avoid background noise. Unmute yourself only when you’re ready to speak, and remember to mute again afterward.
When speaking, try to look at the camera rather than the screen. This helps create a sense of eye contact, making your message feel more personal and engaging for others on the call.
It can be tempting to check emails or finish other tasks during virtual meetings. However, multitasking can lead to misunderstandings or missed information. Focus on the discussion at hand to show respect for your colleagues and stay engaged.
Body language matters even in a virtual setting. Nod to show you’re listening, sit up straight to project attentiveness, and avoid fidgeting or looking away from the screen too often.
Clear communication is crucial in virtual meetings, where non-verbal cues are limited.
Speak at a moderate pace and volume. Virtual meetings can have slight delays, so pause occasionally to allow others to respond. Avoid jargon or overly complex language, especially if attendees are from different backgrounds.
Sharing your screen or using slides can help clarify complex points, but avoid overloading participants with too much text or information. Stick to key points and use visuals to enhance, rather than distract from, your message.
Virtual meetings can feel impersonal, so try to create opportunities for interaction. Ask open-ended questions, invite feedback, and acknowledge participants’ contributions to keep everyone engaged.
Despite the best efforts, distractions happen. Here’s how to handle them gracefully.
If someone accidentally speaks over you, address it politely. A simple “I think there’s a bit of a delay” can help smooth over interruptions. Try to avoid monopolizing the conversation and give others a chance to share.
Technical issues are inevitable in virtual meetings. If someone is facing connection problems, remain patient and offer solutions, like turning off video to save bandwidth. If issues persist, consider scheduling a follow-up or recap to catch everyone up.
Ending on a positive note can leave a lasting impression.
At the end of the meeting, briefly summarize the key points discussed. This helps reinforce the purpose of the meeting and clarifies any action items.
If the meeting requires follow-up actions, clearly assign tasks to specific people. This ensures accountability and helps prevent misunderstandings.
Expressing gratitude for everyone’s time and input is a simple yet effective way to conclude. This leaves attendees feeling appreciated and more likely to engage in future meetings.
The meeting doesn’t end when you log off. Effective follow-up can help cement the meeting's outcomes.
Sharing a recap or minutes can help reinforce what was discussed, especially for those who couldn’t attend. Include action items and deadlines if relevant.
If the meeting was recurring or part of a series, consider offering constructive feedback to improve future sessions. For instance, you might suggest time management strategies if the meeting consistently runs over.
Virtual meeting etiquette is more than just a set of rules; it’s a way to demonstrate professionalism, respect, and consideration for your colleagues. By following these guidelines, you can contribute to productive, engaging, and enjoyable virtual meetings that make the most of everyone’s time.