I have been on so many zoom and Webex meetings and it has been so interesting to see not only the backgrounds but also the facial expressions of everyone. If someone is not speaking, at times, they seem to look sad or depressed. At least that’s how they come across on the screen. I can also always tell if someone is just working on their computer and not paying attention to what is happening.

Here are 10 etiquette tips on how you can elevate your game during these video meetings:

1. Angle is everything: First things first, make sure you log on to the meeting a few minutes before and test your camera. You should never turn off the view where you can see yourself on the screen as well. I have seen some people who do not center their camera or place it at the top of their computer where you see the person’s forehead first. I have also seen situations where the person places the camera on their desk where it is low, and you see their chin and everything else you would see on a person’s face when you look from the bottom up.
2. The Power of Mute: If you are not speaking, always make sure you are on mute. And please for god’s sake learn how to unmute your devices.
3. Privacy: When you have things to do, your dog is barking, your cell phone is ringing or your baby is crying, make sure you turn off your camera so people do not see you speaking on your cell phone or attending other business during the meeting.
4. Smile and nod: Instead of looking like you’ve been taken hostage, try to smile and nod as the speaker speaks.
5. Lighting: Do not sit in front of a window or bright light. A lot of people are using a video conference lighting kit or ring light you can place on top of your screen or behind their computer to fix the lighting issue.
6. Dress code: Try to dress the part. Do not go on the video call with wet hair where it is apparent you just showered before your 10 am videoconference and do not dress so casual. I try to at least put a jacket on or a sweater that looks professional.
7. Color: Do not be afraid of wearing a piece of fashion that is bright or colorful that will make people pay attention to your square.
8. Name: Make sure your name is properly noted on Webex or zoom under your picture, and it doesn’t just state your initials or first name. I have seen cases where people use it as an advertising opportunity on major video meetings as well and have their company name instead.
9. For all the women reading, makeup for the video meeting is a-okay: I really have not used much makeup in the past few months other than my videoconference. It is good to use some highlighter, blush, and mascara. Our faces generally look very pale on the video and it is good to jazz things up a bit.
10. Background: Background is important but remember that it slows down your connection. You have to make sure you have a strong internet connection when you use a background. I recently saw a person who took a picture of their own office and use that as their background which I think is brilliant.