Mastering Video Call Etiquette

By now, we’re probably all masters at how to set up and receive video calls. Video call software has made it so easy and user-friendly, even your grandmother can join in the video call bandwagon.

- Jennifer Lee

But when it comes to video call etiquette, we’ve all committed at least one faux pas that we still cringe at. Perhaps the children came running into the room unannounced, or you accidentally let out a fart that the mic picked up.

Unlike office etiquette which has had decades of refinement, we’re still in the early stages of developing proper video call etiquette. Nevertheless, with a bit of common sense and empathy, we can navigate this minefield safely.

This week, SME takes a look at some common video etiquette issues.

DO I TURN ON THE CAMERA?

The background may be messy, and we’re dressed in our pyjamas – hence the reluctance to be seen on camera is understandable.

But Judith Martin, author of the Miss Manners column unequivocally states that your camera should be turned on. She asks, “If your meeting were live, would you turn your back on the speaker? Would you be in your pyjamas? Would you conduct unrelated business without leaving the room?”