I have been working remotely for over 10 year. However, as we all embrace the use of video/audio conferencing during the COVID-19 pandemic, I would like to remind all users the best practices and online meetings etiquette.

1. Use a Headset when possible: Wearing a headset in noisy, closed, crowded spaces can virtually eliminate distracting echoes and help other participants hear you more clearly. Even using a regular headphone (such as the one you use for your iPhone/Android) helps to minimize the echo and provide a better experience for all participants.
2. Mute yourself when you are not speaking: Mute yourself when you are not speaking (especially if you are on a call with more than two participants). This will significantly reduce background noise for everyone on the call. Learn where the mute button is in the Teams app or the phone.
3. Join only once the audio conference:  If you are using the Teams App for audio, refrain from dialing from your phone into the conference call at the same time. The audio will still come out via the computer speakers and feeding back into the phone creating a feedback loop.
4. Use the Phone Audio when needed: If you are on the road with no internet access, or if you are experiencing slow internet connections, or simply the computer audio system is not working properly during a video conference. Remember to use the dial-in options using your phone or get the Teams app to call your number to join the audio portion of the conference. But please, don’t join the audio conference twice.
5. Check you backlight and position: Having any backlight on a video call can negatively impact the quality by giving you a harsh silhouette effect. Whenever possible, try sitting with your back to a wall rather than a window or try lowering the shades.
6. Test your internet connection and hardware ahead of time: Every attendee should make sure that they can log on properly using the app and test the microphone, camera and equipment in advanced.
7. Resist to multitask: During a call, avoid multitasking at all costs. It’s professional video/audio etiquette to give all colleagues or participants your complete attention. Avoid the urge to check your email or phone while listening.

I personally use Microsoft Teams for all my conference calling and video conferencing. However, these best practices are applicable to any type of video conference system.