General Tips and Etiquette
Appearance Considerations
Avoid plaids, patterns, and prints
Preferred colors are blue, green, and purple. Pastel colors are preferred over white
The colors red and black "bleed" and should be avoided
Avoid large and flashy pieces of jewellery
No bangle bracelets
Because movement is compressed and decompressed in videoconferencing, it is important that
motion be minimized. (make sure the camera is facing a “still” background)
Orient the presenter(s) appropriately. Zoom in so that they can be clearly seen. Think of it as
framing a camera shot.
Just Prior to Your Conference
Arrive at least 15 - 30 minutes early to distribute materials and connect to all sites
Sort papers to avoid sound interference
Set the camera presets
Begin on time
During your Conference
Open by introducing all participants
Review procedures and etiquette
Review objectives and time allotted for meeting
Encourage participation by asking questions
Avoid coughing into microphones, drumming fingers, or carrying on side conversations
Identify yourself as necessary
Address people by name and site
Ask participants to raise their hand if they wish to speak (or a method introduced in procedures)
Limit verbal interruption (e.g., uh huh). Provide non-verbal feedback by nodding or shaking your
head
Allow for a two-second transmission delay when speaking; pause after the end of your comments
to allow time for remote sites to respond to a question or comment
Direct questions or comments to a particular person or site (especially important in multipoint
conferences)
Expect some technical issues - have patience when technical issues arise Ending the Conference
Allow a few minutes for wrap-up and good-byes
Conclude on time
General Tips
Always assume the microphone is on
Chat at the beginning and end of the session to build and maintain rapport.
Give participants time to think as well as position themselves to use the technology.
If your videoconference session is primarily a presentation/lecture, it is recommended that the
microphone on the "audience" end be muted. This minimizes interruption such as coughing,
sneezing, and paper shuffling.