In my most recent blog post on my other site, Integrative Holistic, I took you through how to choose the best internet video chat software for online collaboration and connection in this time of social distancing. While there is a huge range of options out there, Zoom made the top of the list for me with its easy-to-use platform and intuitive interface. But in this new era of online video conferencing, a user-friendly platform only goes so far in creating a conducive environment for networking and conducting business. To ensure a positive experience for all meeting attendees, there are certain unspoken online etiquette guidelines you should follow. Read on for my top Zoom meeting best practices!

Turn on your video

Certainly, there are valid reasons why someone may choose not to use the video option, but if at all possible, my advice would be to keep your camera on. Not only does it allow people to see that you are actively engaged, but it can also help to provide context when you are speaking. Don’t underestimate the power of facial expressions and delivery to help convey meaning!

Dress as you would in person

It can be extremely hard to motivate yourself to put on “professional-looking” clothes when working from home on a consistent basis, but I can’t stress this point enough. Not only will changing out of your pajamas get you into a working mindset, but it will also show other attendees that you take your meeting, and their time, seriously.

Stage your video background

Keep in mind that when you log onto a Zoom meeting, other attendees won’t just be able to see you, they’ll also be able to see whatever is behind you! With this in mind, be sure to tidy up your background before you jump on a call. No one wants to stare at your unfolded pile of laundry for an hour.

Mute when you’re not speaking

Whether a car passing by or a dog barking in the distance, background noise can be distracting and steal focus. When you’re not speaking, keep yourself on mute until you have something to add. This will help keep everyone on task and ensure a more productive meeting!

Eliminate unnecessary distractions

Before your meeting starts, mute all pop-up notifications on your phone and desktop so you can create an interruption-free environment! Additionally, take care of other personal items prior to jumping on the call, from filling up your water bottle to using the restroom. By eliminating all possible distractions, you’ll be able to keep a laser-sharp focus on the meeting at hand.

Bonus: If you’re the host, act like it

Just as you would if you were hosting an in-person meeting or networking event, you should always be the first to arrive and the last to leave! This way, no one is waiting around or feels rushed on the way out the door. Additionally, curate an agenda, even for more loose social events. With a structure in place, you can mitigate potential awkward pauses and help keep the meeting flowing.

However you choose to run your Zoom meetings, above all remember two things: be professional, and be courteous. You should want to be as professional as possible to get the most out of collaborating and discussing, but try to be reasonable and understanding of other’s individual circumstances. Video lag happens. Interruptions happen. How you deal with these things is key, and will set you apart as a Zoom pro among amateurs.

My Zoom Meeting Best Practices, Guidelines, and Etiquette Tips