Video conferencing became essential during the pandemic, and it’s clear it’s here to stay. Post-pandemic, the use of video calls continues to expand. It’s now a key part of hiring processes and remote work, making proper video call etiquette a must for all professionals.

Here are five things you should avoid during a work video call:

1. Talk over someone

   Interrupting others not only comes across as rude but also causes audio issues for everyone on the call. Wait for your turn to speak, and if you must interrupt, say something like, “Sorry to interrupt, I need to add that…” Another option is to click on the “raise your hand” feature, or use the chat to ask for permission to speak. You can also type your message directly onto the chat.

   Pro tip: Keeping your microphone on mute upon entering the chat is a good habit. Keep it on mute when you’re not speaking to avoid unnecessary background noise disrupting the meeting.

   
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2. Multi-tasking

   How would you feel if the person you’re speaking to is doing something else and not looking at you? It’s disrespectful to multitask or appear disengaged during a video call. Personally, I feel that it’s more annoying when an attendee is multi-tasking during a video call because of the lack of context in a virtual environment. You don’t really know whether they’re disengaged or dealing with a real distraction, like an urgent client concern, for example. Unlike in-person interactions, where body language and facial expressions can provide clues, virtual meetings can leave you guessing. This can make it harder to address the issue or re-engage the person, leading to frustration and a sense of being dismissed.

3. Eating

   While some companies might allow eating during meetings, don’t assume it’s always okay. Eating can be distracting and appear unprofessional, especially if you’re presenting. It’s also risky; you don’t want food stuck in your teeth! Save snacks for casual calls or wait until the meeting ends (or if it’s understood that it’s a luncheon meeting).

   The same goes for having kids or pets on screen. Never assume that it’s acceptable. While this can be charming in informal settings, it might come across as unprofessional in more formal environments.

4. Recording the meeting without the knowledge of those in attendance

   Recording a meeting without notifying attendees isn’t just unethical, it could be illegal. In Canada, Section 184 of the Criminal Code states that recording a private conversation is illegal unless you are a participant in the conversation and have their consent. If you need to record a meeting, it is respectful to give notice to attendees in advance. This allows participants to have the option to turn off their cameras or mute themselves.

5. Leaving without warning

   Again, because of the lack of context in a virtual space, people who leave suddenly may be considered rude. It can also be worrying – did they leave because of an emergency? Were they mad or offended about something? Were they abducted by aliens (just kidding!)? If you need to leave a group, say something like “I need to step away for another meeting, thank you!” You can also leave a message in the chat. If you were disconnected due to technical issues, write a short note about what happened when you’re back online.

Bonus tip: Don’t start video calls without proper notice

Respect others’ time by scheduling calls in advance. But if you really need to talk to someone on short notice, a quick message to confirm availability shows consideration and gives the other person time to prepare. No one wants to be caught off-guard on camera!
 
Sources: 12 do’s and don’ts of successful video call etiquette, Alexa Nizam, Lemonlight; and 8 Things Not to Do When Video Conferencing from Home, ViewSonic.