Never has a video call has been more irritating than in 2020 and beyond...
I hate zoom calls with work colleagues, managers (esp. managers!), friends, even relatives. So many reasons that the word 'Zoom' now fills me with dread. Urghh...my hair, my face, do I need to turn on the camera, I'd rather be asleep, must I contribute to he discussion, do I have to listen to what's actually being discussed, does my room look like a tip.....To make Zoom life less traumatic, here's a quick guide on Zoom etiquette.
Scheduled video calls only
Last year, I kept being video called by a colleague without notice. I'd answer and there she was all dressed and looking pretty and here I was, hair a state, no make up and a face that looked like a smacked arse! Video calls are pretty awful at the best of times but without a head's up....it's a nightmare! Zooming is a very standard thing of working from home but definitely one that needs for the person being called to have a head's up. If you see someone keeps video calling you without notice, don't pick up. Instead, send a text a few minutes later (I'd give it 10 minutes as you don't want them to know you deliberately did not pick up) and ask if everything is okay and you are free later to have a video call and then schedule something in.
Group calls
A group video call usually means one person is taking lead. Avoid taking over from the person unless you've specifically been asked a question or there is something that you need to contribute to the discussion. When more than one person talks during Zoom calls, it's too many voices and it all ends up sounding somewhat muffled.
Screenshots
Would you take a picture of your colleague who was sat across from you in the office? If the answer is no, then don't take a screenshot of you all in your pjs without letting them know first. That's just plain rude (and slightly creepy!)
Mute
If you are in a house that is exceptionally loud, then hit mute. The sound travels....nothing more to say on this.
Boundaries
I am big on keeping professional boundaries. Work and and private life should be kept separate. Of course, I will socialise with colleagues but only if it's a work function and sometimes my friends have met me outside my work place. But that is as far as it will go. If this is something that you can relate to, then make sure your colleagues and managers understand that you have boundaries and don't share too much of your life on video calls. No need to show them your partner, your pets, your children, etc.. Share as much as you are happy and comfortable with and never feel you have to share more than you are willing to. It's okay to be a bit 'square' sometimes.
Video on/ off
For the most part, I like to keep the video option on. I think it is borderline rude to turn off the video. However, there will be times when I think video off is more appropriate. Thinking of my previous point of unscheduled video call.....in this case, I will be the black screen and a woman of mystery. For all other video call sessions, I will be there in my full pj attire. Take me as I am...
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