Virtual Meeting Etiquette for Job seekers
Essential virtual meeting etiquette rules tailored for job seekers. Learn best practices to present yourself professionally in online meetings.
Attention & Multitasking Rules
Use notes, not a script
Use bullet notes rather than reading a full script.
Sounds more natural and improves eye contact.
Read moreAvoid eating in small-group discussions
Don’t eat during small-group discussions unless it’s a known working session.
Eating reduces clarity and can feel inattentive.
Read moreClose unrelated tabs before joining
Before joining, close unrelated tabs and silence notifications.
Prevents distraction and accidental screen-share leaks.
Read moreCamera Etiquette
Use a tidy, neutral background
Choose a clean background with minimal movement and no sensitive items visible.
Reduces distraction and protects privacy.
Read moreAvoid virtual backgrounds in high-stakes calls
Avoid glitchy virtual backgrounds for high-stakes conversations unless they look stable.
Visual artifacts can be distracting and may reduce perceived professionalism.
Read moreTurn camera on for interviews
Keep your camera on for interviews unless you’ve agreed otherwise.
Helps build trust and improves communication cues.
Read moreFrame at eye level
Position the camera at eye level and keep your face centered with head-and-shoulders framing.
Creates a natural, professional presence and reduces distraction.
Read moreLook at the lens for key moments
When making a key point, glance at the camera lens to simulate eye contact.
Signals confidence and attentiveness.
Read moreLight your face from the front
Use front-facing light (window or lamp) so your face is evenly lit.
Improves clarity and makes you easier to read.
Read moreCheck video before joining
Do a quick self-check (lighting, angle, background) before clicking Join.
Prevents avoidable distractions at the start.
Read moreNo eating on camera in formal meetings
Avoid eating on camera in formal meetings unless it’s explicitly a working meal.
Maintains professionalism and reduces noise/distraction.
Read moreChat & Reactions Etiquette
Be cautious with emojis in formal settings
In formal meetings, use reactions sparingly and avoid ambiguous emojis.
Different people interpret emojis differently.
Read moreMeeting Preparation
Dress appropriately for the meeting context
Choose attire that matches the importance and audience of the meeting.
Visual appearance influences credibility and first impressions.
Read moreMicrophone & Audio Etiquette
Do a 10-second audio check
Test your mic and speakers before important calls.
Prevents avoidable delays and awkward troubleshooting live.
Read moreUse a stable connection or dial-in
If your internet is unstable, use a wired connection or dial-in audio.
Audio reliability matters more than HD video.
Read moreProfessional Appearance
Minimize distracting accessories
Avoid loud jewelry, noisy bracelets, or anything that catches the mic.
Prevents audio and visual distractions.
Read moreMatch formality to the meeting type
Dress one level more formal than your everyday baseline for the same audience.
Signals respect and professionalism without being distracting.
Read moreKeep grooming camera-ready
Do a quick grooming check (hair, face, visible clothing) before joining.
Small details influence first impressions on video.
Read moreKeep your camera view stable
Avoid handheld devices; use a stable surface for your camera.
A steady image looks more professional and reduces motion sickness.
Read moreKeep workspace visible area tidy
Ensure the visible workspace looks orderly and professional.
What’s in frame shapes perceived competence.
Read morePunctuality & Time Management
Join 2–5 minutes early
Join a few minutes early to resolve audio/video issues before the meeting starts.
Protects the first minutes for content, not troubleshooting.
Read moreAvoid last-minute reschedules
Only reschedule last-minute when necessary, and propose clear alternatives.
Shows respect and reduces coordination costs.
Read more