Effective communication is essential in business and life. Follow these 10 video conferencing etiquette tips to become a better communicator and leader!

Video conferencing is an integral medium of modern communication. It keeps people connected to their companies, co-workers, and family. This blog post discusses crucial elements of video conferencing etiquette that can make your online meetings more professional and productive. 

All of the most commonly used video conferencing apps have seen a drastic increase in their user base since 2020. Here are some of the video conferencing platforms or apps that became very popular among users:

• Zoom
• Webex
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Skype
• GoToMeeting

Regardless of the video conferencing app you use, these video conferencing etiquette tips will help you improve your overall communication. 

If you want to access more live video tools when using any of these apps, download ManyCam for free today. It connects to your video conferencing solution and allows you to add a lot more to your meetings and business presentations. 

Video Conferencing Growth

Statistics from last year reveal video conferencing has already taken over audio conferencing in professional capacities. In addition, 50% of the workforce was operating remotely, and during the lockdown, virtual communication was the only way to keep in touch with friends and family.

The video conferencing market is growing rampantly, with an estimated market share growth of 22.5 billion (USD) by 2026 and a compound annual growth of 19.7% during that period. 

Learning how to make the best use of this technology will help you optimize the experience. In this article, we will talk about 10 essential video conferencing etiquette tips. 

The Importance of Video Conferencing Etiquette

“Etiquette means behaving yourself a little better than is absolutely essential” – Will Cuppy

We understand that using technology can be overwhelming sometimes. We often lose touch with the human element in virtual settings, so here is what you need to know about carrying yourself more eloquently next time you are in a video conference. 

You can also share these tips with others who might need the extra nudge of information.

5 Tips on Video Conferencing Etiquette

Make sure everything works

Ensure that all your gadgets are charged and functional alongside a stable and high-speed internet connection before the meeting begins. We recommend testing all your equipment before the remote meeting and, if possible, always have a backup plan. 

Plan in advance

If you are hosting the virtual meeting, make sure to plan ahead of time. Have a set schedule and stick to it because it is very easy to go off topics or forget what you wanted to say because of the unnatural setting.

For business presentations, internal or for clients, you need to go above and beyond. It’s crucial to keep your viewers engaged. One way is to use different resources and switch between documents throughout your presentation. 

Also, as part of video conferencing etiquette, make sure you keep the discussion as concise as possible so that everyone’s time is respected. 

Limiting distractions

Set up the meeting in a secluded space where there are minimal distractions. Put your phone on silent mode and inform your family that you will be attending a meeting at the specified time.

Speak clearly

Speak slowly and clearly by enunciating your words. Due to a bad connection, your voice could be breaking for some participants, so pause to check if everyone can hear you.

Look at the camera

Looking at the camera will keep you focused and attentive during the meeting; otherwise, you could lose interest and be distracted.

Introduce Yourself

When you join the meeting, always introduce yourself unless someone is already speaking, then you can wait for your turn. In addition, it helps establish familiarity with your name for other participants and the host.

Wear appropriate clothing

Wear clothes according to the capacity of your meeting. For example, if it is a work meeting, wear something formal and look presentable.

Consider your background

It is best to have a plain background, so just set yourself up in front of a wall or solid color space. Or better yet, use ManyCam’s virtual background feature and select between amazing images or videos. Plus, you can even create your own virtual backgrounds for a branded video conferencing experience. 

Be on time

Ideally, we should always be on time for any meeting, virtual or in-person. But, if you are running late for any reason, it’s important to inform the host of the meeting or your participants if you are the host.

Focus

No matter how tempted you are to work on something else, don’t. It will affect your participation and attention. Moreover, it could potentially leave a bad impression.

Final Thoughts on Video Conferencing Etiquette

We have all been part of a poorly organized video conference, and the best that we can do is to ensure we are not causing any inconvenience for others because of our lack of knowledge on the matter. Although tech companies are constantly upgrading systems to facilitate our needs, we can also play our part.

At the end of the day, it’s all about effective and respectful communication, regardless of the medium. We hope you found these tips helpful! Feel free to share this article with your colleagues and friends.