All Etiquette Rules

Use accessibility features when needed

Use captions, transcripts, or slower pacing to support comprehension.

Why it matters: Improves inclusion across accents and hearing needs.

If multitasking is allowed, declare it

If you’re joining as a listener while multitasking, be transparent when relevant.

Why it matters: Sets expectations and avoids missed responses.

Applies to: Participant

Use notes, not a script

Use bullet notes rather than reading a full script.

Why it matters: Sounds more natural and improves eye contact.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Sales rep

Avoid typing while others speak

If you need to type, stay muted and keep it brief.

Why it matters: Typing noise and divided attention reduce meeting quality.

Applies to: Participant

Avoid eating in small-group discussions

Don’t eat during small-group discussions unless it’s a known working session.

Why it matters: Eating reduces clarity and can feel inattentive.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Participant

Avoid phone calls during meetings

Don’t take phone calls during a meeting; if urgent, excuse yourself.

Why it matters: Split attention harms group coordination.

Applies to: Participant

Close unrelated tabs before joining

Before joining, close unrelated tabs and silence notifications.

Why it matters: Prevents distraction and accidental screen-share leaks.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Participant, Sales rep

Signal active listening

Use brief acknowledgments (nod, short 'yes', reaction) to show you’re engaged.

Why it matters: Reduces uncertainty in remote conversations.

Applies to: Participant

If interrupted, communicate quickly

If something interrupts you, briefly state it and propose how you’ll re-engage.

Why it matters: Keeps the meeting moving without oversharing.

Don’t do parallel work in small meetings

In small meetings, avoid multitasking unless explicitly agreed.

Why it matters: It reads as disrespect and lowers trust.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Participant, Sales rep

Ask for a recap instead of guessing

If you missed something, ask for a short recap at an appropriate moment.

Why it matters: Prevents misunderstandings and wrong follow-through.

Applies to: Participant

Be present when you speak

When it’s your turn, stop other tasks and speak clearly and briefly.

Why it matters: Shows respect for everyone’s time.

Applies to: Participant

Pause briefly before responding

Allow a short pause before speaking to avoid interrupting others.

Why it matters: Prevents accidental interruptions caused by audio delay.

Use a tidy, neutral background

Choose a clean background with minimal movement and no sensitive items visible.

Why it matters: Reduces distraction and protects privacy.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Participant, Presenter / speaker

Avoid virtual backgrounds in high-stakes calls

Avoid glitchy virtual backgrounds for high-stakes conversations unless they look stable.

Why it matters: Visual artifacts can be distracting and may reduce perceived professionalism.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Participant, Sales rep

Nod and use natural cues

Use small visible cues (nodding, brief smile) to show you’re following along.

Why it matters: Replaces missing in-room feedback and reduces awkward pauses.

Applies to: Participant, Presenter / speaker

Turn camera on for interviews

Keep your camera on for interviews unless you’ve agreed otherwise.

Why it matters: Helps build trust and improves communication cues.

Applies to: Host / facilitator, Interview candidate, Interviewer

Ask before requiring cameras

If you want cameras on, state it in the invite and allow opt-outs when reasonable.

Why it matters: Balances engagement with privacy, bandwidth, and accessibility needs.

Signal when stepping away

If you need to step away, briefly message in chat or use a status indicator.

Why it matters: Prevents confusion and missed questions.

Applies to: Host / facilitator, Participant

Frame at eye level

Position the camera at eye level and keep your face centered with head-and-shoulders framing.

Why it matters: Creates a natural, professional presence and reduces distraction.

Applies to: Interview candidate, Presenter / speaker, Sales rep