Here are some small tips based on experience and common sense.
Let's start with a list of eleven points, which we'll discuss further. If you think something is missing, feel free to add it in the comments:
- Conversations are confidential—no spouses, relatives, friends, or third parties listening in. Of course, an exception can be made for parents caring for their children at home. Remember your confidentiality commitment regarding your relationship with the company or client, even in that case.
- It's a given that you should establish a start and end time.
- Punctuality at the start and end of the call is a must.
- It's useful to share an agenda or list of topics beforehand.
- If possible, avoid disruptive noises such as dogs, vacuum cleaners, kids, radios, TVs, phones, etc.
- With a good connection, keeping the "video call" function on is preferable. Since you can, it's nicer to see each other, don't you think?
- Ensure the lighting is in favour of the camera—avoid the "ghost" effect.
- Don't drink directly from the bottle.
- Don't eat or talk with your mouth full.
- Avoid responding to emails or incoming chats during the call.
- On Skype, be careful when sharing your screen.
Lastly, here's a question: "It's been years since the smoking ban was enforced in public places. How do you feel when you see a colleague or client smoking (hopefully a cigarette) during a call?"
Write your thoughts in the comments—it'd be great if we could build a useful guide for video calls together!
