Following Virtual Team Meeting Etiquette (Noise)

Minimizing Noise and Using the Mute Button
Nothing is more frustrating than hearing that alien echo noise or high-pitch screech from conflicting microphones. If you’re working in a noisy cafe, an airport, or anywhere that has a lot of background noise, always keep your microphone muted when you’re not speaking. It gives everyone else the ability to chime in without distraction. In large meetings, it’s a good idea to keep your mic muted until you need to speak, even if your office is quiet.

Video meetings have enough background noise, so don’t add to it. Make sure you’re in a quiet room; close the windows, turn off music, cell phones, and TVs; relocate pets; and make sure your roommates, spouse, and kids know you aren’t to be disturbed. Minimize the use of your keyboard because the sound is distracting and it also highlights that you may not be fully engaged. Also, mute any alert tones on your computer.

Depending on the noise level in your home, you may want to consider getting noise-canceling headphones to truly tune out the distractions of traffic and sounds within your home. Here are some factors to consider:

» Decide if you want ear buds, earpads, or full-size headphones that fit around your entire ear. Full-size headphones can do a great job canceling out noise, but you may feel self-conscious on camera with them on.

»  Think about how you’ll use your headphones most often. Wired headphones can save you some money, but wireless headphones will allow you to be hands-free, which comes in handy.

» Check the battery life. A good set of headphones usually lasts 25 hours on one charge.

» Try on the headphones in the store if possible, to check for fit and sound. Have someone talk to you or play music to see how well they drown out the noise.

» Consider how much you’re willing to spend. You’ll use them every time you’re on a call and they’ll impact noise levels and distractions significantly. Invest in headphones that work for you and present you in the best way possible.

» Don’t expect headphones to be perfect at canceling out noise. They can’t block out everything, but they can get close.

Source: Working From Home by Tara Powers, MS, et al.