Just because we’re online doesn’t mean it is ok to show up late, interrupt people, or ignore others. In fact, as we’ve moved to an increasingly online model for communication and socialising, it’s never been more important to be kind to one another! Below we’d like to share with you some easy ways you can ensure that you’re respectful to others in online spaces.
Top 8 Tips for Online Etiquette
1. Introduce yourself and turn on your video
When you start an audio or video call first turn on your video and introduce yourself so everyone
knows who’s speaking and can address you by name. When you’re done, turn off the sounds (i.e.
mute) so everyone can hear each other clearly without background noise, but don’t turn off your
video.
2. Mindful of your speaking voice
It can be frustrating if someone is speaking too softly or speaking too loudly. Try to speak as you
normally would if you were speaking to someone in front of you and ask others if they can hear your
properly.
3. Avoid interrupting other speakers
Online calls can be challenging because we have less body cues to let everyone know when someone
else wants to speak. Try to be mindful of people’s facial expressions and let everyone finish speaking.
If you want to say something but can’t find the right moment raise your hand or type in the chat that
you’d like to share something.
4. Maintain eye contact
Just because you are on an online call does not mean you play on your phone or appear distracted to
others. Keep your focus on the camera and let others know you are respectfully listening.
5. Check your group chats regularly
There is nothing worse than asking someone a question and waiting for a long period of time to hear
back. So please avoid this behaviour by regularly checking the chat and activity function and actively
engaging in the conversation.
6. Avoid unnecessary noise
If you are not speaking, it’s always a good idea to mute yourself so there’s no background noise.
When you are speaking also try to minimise background noise in your surroundings, such as kitchen
equipment, noisy jewellery, or chatty housemates!
7. Be on time
You wouldn’t be late to an in-person meeting or class (hopefully!) so don’t be late to an online one
either. Even better, try to log in a few minutes before and check your video and audio are working.
8. Maintain professional etiquette
You should think of Microsoft Teams as an extension of your Learning Managing Systems (LMS).
Please be mindful of the language you use and treat others with respect.