Daiv Russell

Video Teleconference Etiquette is Your Key to Successful Video Conference Calls



Posted: Sunday, January 27, 2008

by
Envision Web Marketing

If you are familiar with the business world, then you already know the importance of manners and propriety. (If you're not currently familiar with those rules, then you're going to need to learn them quickly!) Managing a successful business - whether it's a law office, an investment firm, a service provider, or any other organization - is a complex task, but one critical skill set for any working professional is an awareness of conference call etiquette.

In business, image is everything. In the past, it was possible to maintain good relationships with your clients by a traditional meeting that involved face-to-face interaction. But the rapid technological developments of the past few decades have changed everything. Instead of relying on a customer base that is in your area, you will be reaching new customers that might be based far away. To reach them effectively, you will often hold video conferences.

A virtual meeting like this is sometimes called a teleconference. These occur when multiple groups of people, no matter how far away, come together through a video connection. The dynamic is very similar to those of more traditional sessions: both groups of people discuss problems and exchange ideas in real time, and both groups of people can see one another.

Because conference calls are similar to older forms of communication, much of the same rules of propriety apply. Using proper conference call etiquette, for example, you should never interrupt when a colleague is speaking. This is a particularly important rule to keep in mind, because sometimes, the limitations of technology can lead to a short "time lag." If you are aware of this problem, you will know to make sure that your colleague is finished speaking before you start.

You should also follow other traditional rules of decorum. Do not chew gum, which can be viewed as disrespectful. You should also avoid eating or drinking. These activities might be part of conventional interaction, but due to differences in cultural norms and time zones, you should know that your colleagues may not expect this behavior.

Dressing appropriately is another key component of conference call etiquette. Your long-distance co-workers will be presented with a literal picture of you, and because they will not be able to shake your hand or interact with you physically, they may judge you based on your appearance. Make sure to look clean and neat. You may also want to avoid "loud" or ostentatious patterns, as these can sometimes be distorted by the equipment used in conferencing.

As a general rule, remember that conference call etiquette is generally the same as using good, common sense. Always be respectful of your colleagues. Remember that they may have different cultural expectations than you, and understand how your behavior might be interpreted differently. When you act appropriately and respectfully, you're sure to win your customers' confidence - and their business!
 
Daiv Russell is a management and marketing consultant with Envision Consulting in Tampa, Florida. To learn more about teleconference etiquette, check out audio-conference-calling.info. While organizing your team, you might want to consider our Team Building tips.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Marianne
from NY 3 years 357 days ago.
This is so true, even in telephone conferences, proper etiquette is absolutely vital to success.
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