Virtual Meeting Etiquette

Professional work requires virtual presence skills.

During client meetings we expect you to keep your web camera on
to maximize presence and participation.

Set up

• Select a quiet place, with few distractions. Move pets to another space.
• Sit at a table or desk where you can type and take notes easily.
• Ensure your background (virtual or real) is professional-looking.
• Avoid backlights such as windows and bright lamps behind you.
• Place your web camera at eye level.
• Disconnect from VPN and turn off programs or applications that might consume bandwidth to ensure good video quality.
• Test Zoom’s “view options” to find settings that allow you to see both the shared screen and the tiles of the participants.
• Check for Zoom software updates prior to the class start time.
• Set your first and last name to appear on your tile.

Conduct

• Prepare with rigor.  Plan to participate actively.
• Dress and behave as you would in an in-person meeting (think business casual).
• Do not do anything you would not do in a face-to-face meeting.
• Mute your microphone when you are not speaking.
• Use nonverbal icons: thumbs up/down, applause, and nodding in agreement.
• Keep these meetings private.Do not record, post, or share them with others.

Speech

• Remember that you are talking to non-native speakers.  Slow down!
• Have a team member remind you to slow down if you forget to do it (you will).
• Avoid business, technical, or academic jargon.