In the new world of Zoom, WebEx, Teams, it is more important than ever to ensure you present yourself with highest level of professionalism and attentiveness. Online meetings and online learning are likely here to stay for a while. Many companies have shifted to fully remote workforce, colleges are doing all virtual classes, and for Northwest AHEC all live in person learning has shifted to online webinars. View our upcoming events and programs here.

We've put together some helpful tips and expectations for virtual meetings and activities, and thought we would share with you today!

1. Dress appropriately – While remote in meeting, this is still work time – please be fully and appropriately clothed.
2. Maintain a proper posture – Lying down is inappropriate. Please either be sitting or standing to actively participate.
3. Be present in the meeting – Remove as much as possible any potential distractions (i.e. family, pets, cell phones, other tablets/computers)
4. Video must be on – If you are on a Webinar, it is not a conference call – your full attendance is appreciated and expected.
5. Mute your microphone – Unless you have a question or are contributing to the discussion, please keep your microphone muted to cut down on the unnecessary distractions/background noise.
6. Create a conducive work space – Be mindful of and control the setting behind you – items in your background can distract others and/or send improper messages to those viewing your screen.
7. Test your technology before the start of the meeting – Being ready for the meeting is important, please work out the bugs, test your volume and adjust the camera angle before start time to ensure that you are ready to participate.
8. Be on time – Meeting for a few moments each day/week means every minute is important – as the saying goes, if you are early, you are on time.
9. Be prepared to engage – Like a face-to-face meeting, have the material read, any tasks completed and talking points ready – participation is vital in this digital space.
10. Speak up – You might have a great connection and a high quality microphone, but that might not be true for all – speak clearly and fully.

View Printable PDF of these Expectations

Do you have any other tips and tricks in navigating this new world of virtual learning and meetings? Please share below in the comments section.