Webinars Etiquette

If multitasking is allowed, declare it

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

Sets expectations and avoids missed responses.

Participant

Light 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.

Interview candidate, Presenter / speaker

Minimize fidgeting and swiveling

Avoid constant chair swivels, tapping, or bouncing that pulls attention.

Camera amplifies small movements.

Participant, Presenter / speaker

Hosts should set chat rules at the start

State how chat will be used (questions, links, off-topic policy) at the beginning.

Prevents chaos and sets expectations.

Host / facilitator, Moderator

Use reactions to reduce interruptions

Use reactions (raise hand, thumbs up) for quick signals instead of interrupting.

Improves flow and reduces cross-talk.

Participant

Acknowledge chat questions verbally

Acknowledge relevant chat questions verbally when possible.

Shows attentiveness and keeps chat aligned with discussion.

Ask questions using the agreed method

Follow the host’s Q&A process (chat, Q&A tab, raise hand).

Helps moderators manage time and prioritize.

Participant

Avoid side conversations in public chat

Keep public chat relevant to the meeting; move side topics to private messages.

Prevents distraction and confusion.

Participant

Use chat for clarification, not debate

Use chat for short clarifications, links, and questions—not extended arguments.

Keeps the meeting focused and readable.

Participant

Use concise messages

Keep chat messages short and single-topic.

Improves readability and moderation.

Participant

Announce when you’re recording

If audio is being recorded, announce it clearly at the start.

Supports consent and compliance expectations.

Host / facilitator, Moderator

Mute your microphone when not speaking

Keep your microphone muted unless you’re actively speaking.

Reduces background noise and interruptions.

Participant

State your name before speaking in large calls

In large meetings, say your name first before your question or comment.

Helps everyone track who’s speaking, especially with audio-only attendees.

Participant, Presenter / speaker

State retention and access for recordings

If you record, state who will have access and how long it will be kept.

Builds trust and supports compliance.

Host / facilitator, Moderator

Avoid sharing meeting links in public channels

Don’t repost meeting links publicly unless the event is explicitly public.

Reduces risk of unwanted attendees.

Host / facilitator, Participant

Get consent before recording

Ask for consent before recording and explain the purpose and retention.

Supports privacy expectations and legal compliance.

Host / facilitator, Moderator

Avoid busy patterns on camera

Avoid stripes and high-contrast patterns that flicker on video.

Improves visual clarity and reduces distraction.

Participant, Presenter / speaker

Match 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.

Interview candidate, Presenter / speaker, Sales rep

Use consistent branding as a host

Hosts should align appearance with the event brand and audience expectations.

Builds credibility and a cohesive experience.

Host / facilitator, Presenter / speaker, Sales rep

Consider accessibility in visuals

Avoid small text on clothing and low-contrast visuals that strain viewers.

Supports accessibility and readability on small screens.

Presenter / speaker

Use a professional display name

Set your display name to your real name (and team/company if relevant).

Helps identification and reduces friction in large groups.

Participant, Presenter / speaker

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.

Interview candidate, Participant, Sales rep