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Zoom Etiquette

Greetings Young Professionals,

I hope this email scares you- I know what you did on your last Zoom call.

Zoom etiquette is a crucial skill as a Young Professional. Since Covid, remote/hybrid work environments and connection through technology have become increasingly important. Zoom is now a leading platform for interviews, closing deals, and connecting with mentors. I am here to remind you of the rules and best practices that are guaranteed to make you a Zoom pro.

Zoom etiquette starts before the meeting even begins. 15 minutes before joining the meeting, make sure the lighting is appropriate, your camera works properly, your outfit and hairstyle are appropriate, and that there are no distractions behind you. If you can, sit with your back against a wall, versus having your back to a room. It is very easy for a pet, family member/roommate, or even a ceiling fan, to distract from a meeting. Make sure you have a notepad and multiple working pens nearby. One important thing to note, your camera should be on! We no longer believe you “don’t have a camera” or your “camera isn’t working”. Turn the camera on and make sure the entire setting is professionally curated.

When the meeting starts, immediately mute yourself. Then, adjust your camera angle, blur or pick out your background, and check your mic and speaker. Only unmute yourself when you are called on, or intend to speak up. When you’re done speaking, kindly mute yourself again so there’s no feedback on anyone else’s speakers. Even if you’re hosting the meeting, it is polite to mute when others are speaking so the mic doesn’t pick up on any extraneous noises.

When logged in to a Zoom meeting, make sure you stay focused. We can tell when you’re checking email and typing. We can see when you’re opening and closing tabs. You should not snack during a Zoom meeting, but If you must, politely do so off-screen and take small bites. If you need to get up for any reason, turn your camera off while you’re away.

And for the love of all things professional, please do not start your Zoom meeting with the phrase “Can you hear me?”.

When in doubt, imagine you’re in the office in a real conference room.