By: Juan Carlos Sevilla
The COVID19 pandemic has changed the way we connect with the outside world. We might be physically distant with each other, but technology has kept us connected in many ways. Nowadays, we heavily rely on video conferencing applications to give us more authentic human connection virtually during the Enhanced Community Quarantine. But just like any other social activities we do before, like office meetings, class discussion, or even a simple one-on-one conversation, there are still proper etiquette we need to observe to create a meaningful connection.
We created a list on how to properly do video conferencing according to the people who often use video conferencing app during the ECQ.
1. Have a technical check
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Even if the meeting is just a click away, you don’t want to distract the meeting just because your microphone is not working properly. Check all the necessary applications and equipment you will need for the video conference. Check the microphone if it’s working, the clarity of the video and the angle of your camera, and the internet connection prior to joining the video conference – make sure everything runs smoothly. If there are major adjustments needed to be done, inform the group ahead. “The basic rule is to prepare an hour before the meeting, so you can prepare what’s needed ahead of the meeting,” said Tiger, an IT Consultant.
2. Be on time
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It is likely that the meeting organizer sends a meeting invitation at least a day before the video conference and people are expected to be on the call minutes before the meeting. Set an alarm if you must, because while you can sneak in late on a physical meeting your presence is more noticeable to the group if you come late for the video conference. “People might take online meetings or conference lightly and come in late, but this is really a concern for most of my clients and peers. I can read it through their reactions when someone is late for the online call,” said Drei Lovina, a real-estate agent.
3. Look into the camera
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Well, this one is just the online version of look into one’s eye when they are talking. If you’re feeling uncomfortable in looking to the camera, at least look at the screen, it’s the same level of contact when you look into the camera. It gives the speaker an idea that you are listening and when you do, give them your undivided attention when they are talking. Respect begets Respect! “You can easily notice if someone is doing other things while doing a video call. It’s a sign of lack of interest towards the person you’re talking to,” shared Jerome Sanguyo, a Financial Analyst.
4. Wear appropriate clothes
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Most of the people are guilty on this. The work-from-home environment may give you a relaxing vibe but we should keep in mind that everyone in the group see us as in our occupation. You don’t have to wear fancy clothes or look sharp as if you’re going to a job interview, you just need to look presentable in facing your colleagues. My dad told me when I was still a freshman in my undergrad, “The way you dress and look creates a good first and lasting impression.”
5. Make you presence felt
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Some video conferencing applications don’t show all the participants in the call. This give us more reasons to be more active in the group conversation. While doing so, one must learn when to speak and avoid interrupting the speaker. If you need to make a point, either ping in the group chat or start it with introducing yourself like “This is Juan – I suggest…”. According to Andrea, a middle school teacher, “I told my students to be more active in our online class. Everyone gets to share their own thoughts during the class but be polite in doing so, by calling my attention.” Making you presence felt is also a way to show your interest in the discussion.
Technology may shape how we connect with each other but we should keep the same etiquette just like how we do it in the real world. At the end of the day, being sensitive to everyone in the group is the key to a healthy discussion! Good luck to your succeeding videocons!
You have other ideas on video conferencing? Share with us in the comments below.