I have written about optimizing collaboration experiences before, but today I stumbled upon a good list of videoconference etiquette tips, that I wanted to share. I've learned all these lessons the hard way! I found this list at Rocky Northern Shepherd by Peter Levesque.
Be Prepared
- Test equipment in advance. Have a contingency plan.
- Allow participants a brief "practice session" to familiarize themselves with the equipment and setup.
- Run the video conference sessions according to a well thought out agenda
- Let paricipants know ahead of time what to expect and who will be present
- Set clear objectives regarding what will be accomplished in the session and communicate them to participants
- Appearance counts. Remind participants that they should dress as they would for an in person meeting.
- Eliminate stray noises in the room such as fans, ringing telephones, and other audio sources
- Avoid catered food in one location while others are without.
Lights, Camera, Action
- Begin and end on time
- Introduce all participants
- Identify yourself when you speak
- Speak clearly and loudly
- Make eye contact with the camera and with the other participants in your room
- Use names to direct questions to specific people. Consider using name plates.
- Don' speak over people or interrupt
- Don't be too close to the camera
- Avoid making excessive background noise, like rustling papers
- Turn off beepers, watch alarms and cell phones
- Don't leave the room unless absolutely necessary
- Avoid sidebar conversations
- Make sure everyone is aware that there is a delay in video and audio switching
- Be expressive, both facialy and vocally, but excessive body movements can be distractive
- Avoid frequent changes in the camera zoom or pan during the meeting
- Mute the microphone during a multi-point conference until you need to speak
- Do not zoom in full-face on a speaker.
