With more and more folks working from home during the pandemic, I have to be honest – it’s about time some of you learned some basic etiquette and common sense when it comes to video conference calls.  Now I realize that this technology is new to some of you, but still – there are some basics you need to understand before displaying your mug on that important phone call with the company president or key client.

Be On Time (and Maybe Even a Little Bit Early)

Don’t be the straggler that comes in five minutes late or doesn’t seem to know how to use the video conferencing tool.  Just like in “real life”, its unprofessional, crushes your credibility, and if you’re a stickler for on-time and short meetings (like I am), will garnish the hatred of a thousand blazing suns from your co-workers.  Five minutes early to a video conference won’t kill you, and you’ll be sure that you are set-up and ready to go.

Be Aware of Your Background

Always be aware that the camera not only picks up your smiling face, but also the room around you.  I’ve seen some folks that look like they are trapped in a well, being held hostage, or should be hearing off-camera comments like “it puts the lotion on its skin, or else it gets the hose again”.  Sheeesh.  Make sure your area is well lit with a neutral or professional background.  Now is not the time for folks to see your prized collection of erotic Japanese anime art hanging proudly on the wall behind your head.

Present Yourself Professionally

Yes, you need to shower, shave, and have on a casual/professional outfit (at least from the waist up).  That “Iron Maiden” hoodie or the “I got laid at Senor Frog’s” T-shirt from that cruise to Cancun?  I’d rethink those fashion choices.  Also, try to aim the camera so that it’s not pointing directly up your nose or as if you are bent over everyone else and searching for a cavity in their back molars.

Know Where the “Mute” Button Is Located (and How to Use it)

Nothing is worse than trying to listen to a conference call and everyone sounds like Gary Cooper portraying Lou Gehrig in “Pride of the Yankees” (“Today [today, today, today], I feel [I feel, I feel, I feel], like the luckiest man alive [alive, alive, alive]”).  Mute when you’re not speaking, and make sure to un-mute before charging into your big presentation speech.  Yes – you.  It’s not that hard.

Watch Your Expressions

Remember, everyone can still see you, so you can’t roll your eyes when Karen from HR starts spouting off about some off-topic pet peeve or flip off the camera when your boss starts throwing you under the bus for that project that went late due to his incompetence.  Pretend they are all sitting in the room with you and act accordingly. 

With social distancing and tele-work becoming a greater part of the employment landscape, I hope these tips will help you be the star of your next video conference call (for the right reasons).