Yesterday CNN reported that a top executive at NY Times lost his job. He was fired because of inappropriate conduct. He was doing some unmentionable things during a zoom meeting.
It just goes to show that common sense is not so common. Your coworkers and clients don't want to see you smoking and drinking. They don't want to hear you yelling at your kids or going to the bathroom. They don't want to see your underwear or your husband's shirtless body.
Think of it this way: the things you wouldn't do during a meeting AT the office you shouldn't do during a virtual meeting either.
Here are a few tips to make your virtual meeting as professional as possible:
B – Background. An empty background (such as a blank wall) is
better than a cluttered or busy background. Try to make sure there is no
movement in your background, if possible.
L – Lighting. An easy way to improve lighting is to take the
shade off a lamp or two and place it behind your computer. You will look
better and it will fill out shadows. Note that bright sunlight from windows can
cause lighting issues.
E – Elevate (or eliminate) your behavior. Don’t leave abruptly. Don’t do things that are distracting to you
or others. Think about what you would
and wouldn’t do if you were in your boss’ office or sitting in a conference
room with others.
N – Noise. Improve sound quality by connecting a set of
headphones that have an integrated microphone to your computer. Headphones that
come with smartphones work well. This eliminates echoes and improves sound
quality when you speak. They can also drown out background noise.
D – Dress. Always dress professionally to portray leadership, commitment, and presence for your audience and participants. You are still making an impression, even if
it is a virtual impression.
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