Netiquettes Of Virtual Office

I can now say that I understand the true meaning of "my home is my universe"

Most of us are in self quarantine mode, taking one day at a time getting conditioned to our own new normal. One aspect that seems to have become more popular in personal as well as professional life is video conferencing. The rapid internet popularity in the last decade or so has enabled the wide spread of video equipment used in our day today lives such as mobile devices, cameras, surveillance, tabs, laptops, etc. This affordable technology has empowered organizations to create quick alternate ways of work during these unprecedented times. Individuals are encouraged to adapt setting up virtual offices as a part of company's disaster management strategy which not only helps in minimizing impact on overall business but also ensures safety of employees.

Did you know that Videophone technology was researched for over half a century prior to getting launched in 1927?

AT&T's Bell Labs created this "miracle" back in 1930s however it was a commercial failure. It was expensive and no one could afford it! This technology went through a long journey of significant improvements including video compression coupled with hi-speed internet to be where it is today.

Netizens of today are comfortable using video conferences to keep in touch with friends and family, how is it similar or different when you use it for daily work purposes? Here are some basic guidelines:

Certain things do not change, punctuality still remains fashionable

Be on-time for all meetings, show up few minutes early to ensure everything is well set up. Check Audio, Video and Internet for a smooth meeting/interview. In case you are running into challenges, you have a communication going out alerting the other participants in advance.

Dress Up Or Dress Down

Dress appropriately as per your audience. In order to be safe, try dressing up like you would if you were to be in your office or go for an in-person interview. Be welcoming and smile!

Pay Attention

If you do not have a home office set up, then you could get distracted easily. The cause of distraction could be the worry of someone walking in or someone being too loud at home while you are in a meeting. The easiest way is to get into a routine and find the quietest positive space for work. Soon enough your family/spouse/children/pets would also appreciate your routine. Mute yourself when you are not talking.

De-Clutter

Keep everything that you need organised and handy for the call. Get rid of everything else that you don't. I encourage having something personal close by which motivates you. It could be a photograph of a loved one, a quote that you admire, a picture of a place you would like to visit one day or even a car that you would like to own. Lastly, write down the points to be discussed during the meeting in advance and keep it ready during the meeting as a reference document.

Camera Distancing

Keep the camera at an appropriate distance so that you can be seen. The ideal distance should capture your face, shoulders and upper torso. Use ear phones if required to ensure that you are audible.

Do not panic and be yourself

There is no version of you that is better than yourself. Everyone understands that this is a unique situation and we are all in it together hence there is no reason to panic. Be professional, have gratitude and be yourself.