How do you participate in online meetings and webinars with proper etiquette?

1 Prepare in advance

Before the online meeting or webinar, make sure you have the right software, hardware, and internet connection to join the session smoothly. Check the agenda, the speakers, and the participants, and do some research if needed. Also, test your audio and video settings, and adjust your background, lighting, and appearance. Finally, review the meeting or webinar rules and expectations, such as when to mute or unmute yourself, how to ask questions, and how to use the chat or other features.

2 Be punctual and professional

Join the online meeting or webinar at least five minutes before the scheduled start time, and introduce yourself if necessary. Follow the etiquette norms of your organization and culture, such as using formal or informal language, addressing people by their titles or names, and showing respect and courtesy. Avoid distractions, such as checking your phone, browsing the web, or doing other tasks, and focus on the session. If you need to leave early or have technical issues, inform the host or the moderator politely.

3 Engage and contribute

During the online meeting or webinar, show your interest and attention by using appropriate body language, eye contact, and facial expressions. If you have a question or a comment, raise your hand, use the chat, or wait for your turn, depending on the format and the rules of the session. Be concise and clear when you speak, and use a positive and respectful tone. Listen actively to others, and acknowledge their points or feedback. If you disagree or have a different opinion, express it constructively and diplomatically.

4 Follow up and thank

After the online meeting or webinar, review the main takeaways, action items, and deadlines that were discussed or assigned. If you have any follow-up questions, comments, or suggestions, send them to the host, the speakers, or the relevant participants via email or other channels. Also, thank them for their time, input, or expertise, and provide any feedback or evaluation if requested. Keep in touch with them until the next meeting or webinar, or until the completion of the project or task.

5 Learn and improve

As an administrative assistant, you can always improve your skills and performance in online meetings and webinars. Seek feedback from your manager, colleagues, or clients on how you did, and identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Also, reflect on your own experience, and note what you liked and disliked, what worked and what didn't, and what you learned and what you need to learn more. Finally, look for opportunities to participate in or organize more online meetings and webinars, and apply your best practices and etiquette.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?