Zoom Meeting Etiquette | Virtual Manners With Smart Glasses

In recent years, we have all become far more familiar with Zoom calls than we ever expected was possible. You may have never even met your colleagues at this point, making your online impression your only one.

There have been plenty of funny mishaps on Zoom in the last few years, from snoring students to pantless professionals. While these have been truly funny, these blunders indicate that this change has taken some getting used to. If you’re still not sure how to act or what is expected of you, this guide is for you.

In this post, we will look at Zoom etiquette for professionals, so that you can make a great impression and connect with your colleagues and boss. Keep reading for our top tips.

What do you need for a good zoom meeting?

Let’s start with the basics - your gear and setup. In order to follow proper zoom etiquette for adults, there are a few things you will need. Here are the most important things you need for a successful virtual meeting:

1. Good internet connection: First things first, ensure that your internet speed is good, and there is no lagging. There is nothing more frustrating than waiting for the screen to load, paused video, and interrupted explanations.
2. Lucyd smart glasses: Having a pair of Bluetooth glasses makes Zoom calls so much easier and more efficient. Check out more here.
3. A neat background: There is just something about a pile of laundry heaped onto a chair that screams unprofessional. While you may choose to generate an automatic background on Zoom if you’re having a messy day, a clear and clean background is the best option. A good home office environment would be ideal if you have the space for one.
4. Professional clothing: As previously mentioned, someone rising from their chair in a Zoom meeting and realizing suddenly that they didn’t put pants on that morning is undoubtedly funny. However, none of us want to be that person, and Zoom protocols call for pants. If you know for sure that your bottom half won’t be spotted, a smart shirt may just do the job.
5. A working camera: Of course, all of this would be rather futile if you cannot be seen by your colleagues. A working camera is crucial for connecting with your co-workers, as facial expressions are more important than ever.

Zoom meeting etiquette - What to avoid

Now that we have the basics, let’s take a look at what to avoid doing when in a virtual meeting. These protocols will ensure that your meeting goes smoothly, without interruption or awkwardness.

Note: Some companies are more relaxed than others. If you’re unsure if certain behavior is acceptable or not, ask your boss or team leader.

1. Do not type or talk to others during the meeting: Both of these actions indicate that you are not paying attention to the meeting. Plus, you wouldn’t type or talk when attending a meeting in person, so it sets a bad precedent in virtual meetings.
2. Do not eat, drink or smoke: Of course, having a sip of tea is perfectly acceptable, but popping open a beer may not be appropriate.
3. Don’t leave the frame without saying why: Disappearing without mentioning it can put your team in a tricky position. If anyone asks you a question or takes a vote and you’re not there, this can lead to an uncomfortable situation.
4. Do not leave yourself unmuted: If you would like to add to the conversation, unmute yourself until you have finished speaking or interacting, and then mute it again. There is nothing as frustrating as having the sounds of ten different people rustling, coughing, sipping, and moving around in their chairs. These might sound like small things, but they add up to irritation.

Zoom etiquette tips - What to do

Knowing what not to do is not enough. Let’s take a look at the protocols and manners that are acceptable and appreciated in Zoom calls. These manners will ensure that your colleagues feel heard and respected.

1. Be friendly and attentive: When joining the meeting, greet your team warmly and respond to their salutations with enthusiasm. 
2. Look and sound sharp: As previously mentioned, your gear is important. Make sure that there are no smudges on your camera, ensure that the lighting is good, and use a microphone if necessary. This will ensure that everyone sees and hears you clearly, making your points all the more impactful.
3. Show that you’re listening: To indicate that you are attentive and listening, nod your head, smile, and use your facial expressions to show that you are engaged. If your surroundings are quiet and the meeting is interactive, you may also choose to unmute yourself so that you can respond verbally.

Conclusion on Zoom Guidelines

Since some of us only ever meet up with our colleagues on Zoom after Covid, we want to put our best foot forward. Following these guidelines on Zoom etiquette will make sure that you do just that, and connect with your team members in a professional, friendly manner, without frustrations or mishaps.