Video calls are essential in today's remote world. This post provides 10 tips to perfect your video call etiquette through professional appearance, ideal setup, engagement, communication clarity, limiting distractions, and follow-up.
Introduction
- Video calls enable remote collaboration
- Challenges of good impressions through a screen
- The following etiquette for the polished, thoughtful presence
Dress for Success: Look Sharp and Neat
Your appearance influences perceptions. Follow these clothing tips:
Wear Neat, Wrinkle-Free Attire
- Opt for pressed shirts, blouses, trousers, blazers, skirts, and dresses
- Avoid wrinkled, stained, or ripped clothing with holes or fraying
- Keep accessories simple - avoid loud jewelry or hats
Project Professionalism
- Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns over loud prints
- Prevent wardrobe malfunctions with well-fitting clothes
- Show only professional personal branding/logos
Follow Dress Code Expectations
- Align with company culture and manager expectations
- Formal business attire for client presentations
- Smart casual for internal video conferences
| Professional | Business Casual | Smart Casual |
|---|---|---|
| Suit jacket | Blazer with dress shirt | Polo shirt |
| Button-down shirt | Blazer with a dress shirt | Nice jeans |
| Trousers | Khakis | Skirts |
| Leather shoes | Loafers | Casual shoes |
Set the Stage: Optimize Your Space
Your environment impacts perceived professionalism. Implement these setup tips:
Choose an Appropriate Room
- Pick a private, quiet space with no distractions
- Close doors and windows to minimize ambient noises
- Face a solid wall with professional decor
- Ensure adequate lighting on your face
Position Your Camera Properly
- Place camera at eye level for natural eye contact
- Frame yourself from the chest up with hands visible
- Angle camera to capture your best angle
Address Visual Distractions
- Remove clutter from the background
- Minimize visual noise and text behind you
- Add plants or art for subtle personalized flair
| Good | Bad |
|---|---|
| Simple background | Messy background |
| Direct lighting | Harsh overhead lighting |
| Eye level camera | Low camera angle |
Engage Through Eye Contact
Maintaining eye contact fosters deeper connections:
Look at Your Camera When Speaking
- Stare directly at your camera lens
- Avoid looking at yourself or your screen
Use Facial Expressions
- Smile, nod, and use affirming gestures
- Convey reactions through your face
Take Visual Notes
- Jot down key points to show focus
- Doodle relevant images or ideas
Speak to Be Understood
Adjust your speech patterns for clarity:
Enunciate and Modulate Tone
- Speak slowly and clearly
- Vary tone and inflection for emphasis
Summarize and Invite Questions
- Recap important points and next steps
- Pause to allow others to ask questions
Avoid Filler Words and Interruptions
- Cut down on "ums", "likes", and nervous tics
- Don't speak over others or interrupt
Filter Out Distractions
Minimize disruptions with these tips:
Eliminate Onscreen Clutter
- Close unneeded windows, apps, and browsers
- Disable pop-up notifications during meetings
Create a Distraction-Free Zone
- Add a "Do not disturb" sign to your door
- Silence mobile devices and exit extra apps
- Use a headset for optimal sound
Remain Focused
- Avoid multi-tasking or wandering attention
- Mute yourself when not speaking
