Slay the Virtual Meeting Game: Etiquette Do's and Don'ts

03 Sep 2024

Zoom Online Meeting Rules at Shawn Williams blog

Darling, gone are the days of boardroom pow-wows and endless cups of lukewarm coffee. We're in a digital age, where business deals are struck and brainstorming sessions sizzle, all through the magic of a screen. But before you hit that "join meeting" button, let's dish about the new rules of engagement. Because, honey, just like that LBD you wouldn't dare wear twice in a row, there's an art to acing those virtual meetings.

Remember when video calls were this futuristic thing we only saw in sci-fi movies? Now, they're as common as a morning latte. This shift to a digital workspace has brought about a whole new set of social graces. We're talking about virtual meeting etiquette, the digital equivalent of remembering to say "please" and "thank you". It's about putting your best (digital) foot forward and making sure you're coming across as polished, professional, and oh-so-chic, even if you're rocking your silk pajamas off-screen.

Think about it. In the digital realm, first impressions are everything. Your background is your new corner office, your internet connection is your handshake, and that rogue pet photobombing your conference call? Well, that's just a modern-day faux pas waiting to happen. Navigating this brave new world of virtual meetings is all about understanding the nuances – knowing when to mute, when to unmute, and how to make sure your voice (and your ideas!) are heard loud and clear.

So why is this digital decorum so important? Let's be real, a virtual meeting faux pas can be just as cringeworthy as a fashion disaster. Imagine accidentally leaving your mic on during a confidential discussion, or worse, having your cat walk across your keyboard and type gibberish in the chat. Not exactly the impression you want to make, right? Virtual meeting etiquette isn't just about avoiding embarrassing situations; it's about respect. It shows your colleagues, clients, and collaborators that you value their time, you're taking the meeting seriously, and you're committed to creating a productive and enjoyable virtual environment for everyone.

Mastering this new world of virtual communication can feel like learning a new language. But fear not, because with a few insider tips and tricks, you'll be navigating those online meetings like the digital diva you are. So grab your virtual notepad, pour yourself a glass of something bubbly, and let's dive into the do's and don'ts that will have you owning those virtual meetings, one pixel-perfect moment at a time.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Meeting Etiquette

Advantages	Disadvantages
Improved communication and understanding	Technical difficulties can disrupt the flow of the meeting
Increased productivity and efficiency	Lack of non-verbal cues can lead to misinterpretations
Enhanced professional image and credibility	Can be challenging to build rapport and relationships remotely

Remember, just like that perfectly curated Instagram feed, acing virtual meeting etiquette is about presenting your best self online. By mastering these simple yet significant guidelines, you'll not only make a lasting impression but also ensure your ideas are heard, your presence is appreciated, and your virtual meetings are nothing short of fabulous.