Video chat etiquette - or "netiquette" for video calls - is more important than ever as remote communication becomes the norm. Whether you're using RandomVideo for casual conversations or professional meetings, these manners will help you make a positive impression.
Before the Call
Test Your Technology
Nobody wants to be the person who wastes five minutes fiddling with settings while others wait. Before joining any video chat:
- Check that your camera and microphone work
- Test your speakers or headphones
- Close unnecessary applications that might cause notifications
- Ensure your internet connection is stable
Prepare Your Space
Choose a quiet, well-lit location. Tidy up visible areas - your background says something about you. If your environment is chaotic, use a virtual background. Inform others in your household to avoid interruptions.
Dress Appropriately
The rule: if you wouldn't wear it to meet this person in person, don't wear it on video. Business meetings require professional attire. Casual chats can be relaxed, but still presentable. Avoid distracting patterns or very bright colors that can flicker on camera.
During the Call
The Look-at-Me Rule
Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera, not at your own video feed or the other person's image on screen. This creates the illusion of eye contact. Position your camera at eye level if possible.
Mind Your Mute Button
When you're not speaking, especially in group calls, mute yourself. Background noise - keyboard typing, street sounds, breathing - is amplified and distracting. Unmute when you want to talk, then mute again.
Watch Your Body Language
Sit up straight, avoid excessive movement, and use natural hand gestures. Don't pace, rock, or fidget constantly. Nod to show you're listening, but don't nod so much it looks like a seizure.
Don't Eat on Camera
Unless it's a lunch meeting and everyone is eating, avoid food on video calls. Chewing with your mouth open, talking with food in your mouth, and the sounds of eating are universally unpleasant. If you must eat, mute and turn off video briefly.
Speak Clearly and at Appropriate Volume
Don't shout or mumble. Project your voice naturally. If your audio is poor, people will ask you to repeat yourself constantly - that's frustrating for everyone. Invest in a decent microphone if you video chat frequently.
Conversation Manners
Don't Interrupt
Video calls have slight audio delays. Wait a moment after someone finishes before you start speaking to avoid talking over them. If you do interrupt, apologize and let them continue.
Stay Present
Resist the urge to check your phone, look at other tabs, or multitask. It's obvious when someone's attention is divided. Give the conversation your full focus.
Manage Time Wisely
If the conversation has naturally run its course, it's okay to end it gracefully. "Well, it was great chatting - I should get going" is perfectly acceptable. Don't trap people in endless small talk if they're showing signs of wanting to leave.
Ending the Call
Signal when you're preparing to wrap up a few minutes before actually leaving. Thank the person for their time, say goodbye, and actually disconnect - don't just close the tab without a word.