Rules of Etiquette in Videoconferencing or as it is normally referred to as Vidiquette
Vidiquette is like etiquette, but for videoconferencing and collaboration.
- Before your Call:
- Polish your image Prior to the call, check to see how you will appear to those on the far end. The key… LEAP–Light, Environment, Attire, and Portrait.
- Light – be sure you have good lighting; natural side lighting is usually the best. Without proper lighting, you may either be ghosted out (too much light from the wrong angle) or too dark to see if there is not enough light in the room.
- Environment – Be aware of the condition of your surroundings. Messy piles of paper on your desk? Piles of laundry? Stack of dirty dishes? To the people on the other end of the camera, an untidy work area can cause a major distraction.
- Attire – Avoid wearing bright colours, all-light or all-dark clothing, or very “busy” patterns (such as small checks or narrow stripes). Light pastels and muted colours look the best on the screen.
- Portrait – Check the camera to ensure that you’re visible in the frame, with the right PORTRAIT. You don’t want the far side focused only on your forehead or up your nose. (Don’t be a Vidiot, Stop showing people your nose hair ????)
- Test your devices:
- Test your hardware and internet connection beforehand.
- Set up and test sharing your content, such as PowerPoints presentations, beforehand.
- During the Call
- Don’t talk over each other. Use the chat function to ask questions
- When you aren’t talking mute yourself
- Avoid looking at your computer display, talking on your cell phone or to someone off frame, typing on your keyboard and carrying on IM conversations.
- Smile when on camera.
- Be aware of body language.
- Chewing and video collaboration don’t mix
- Don’t forget to be yourself. – Just like texting, talking on the phone or walking over to your colleague’s desk and chatting in person, the video conferencing experience is about what’s being discussed. So, don’t fret when it comes to getting on camera — just be yourself!
Author: Keshnie Bhugwandin
