Professional meetings, whether online or in-person, follow a set of unspoken rules. Mastering meeting etiquette shows respect for others' time and contributes to a more productive environment.
Key Aspects of Meeting Etiquette:
- Punctuality: Arrive on time. If you are going to be late, inform the meeting organizer in advance.
- Preparation: Review the agenda and any pre-reading materials before the meeting. Come prepared to contribute.
- Active Participation: Stay engaged. Listen to what others are saying, and contribute your ideas constructively. Avoid interrupting.
- Concise Communication: When you speak, be clear and to the point. Don't dominate the conversation.
- Voice Modulation: Vary your tone, pitch, and pace to keep listeners engaged. Avoid speaking in a monotone. Emphasize key words to add impact.
- Dress Code: Dress appropriately for your company's culture and the nature of the meeting. If it's a meeting with an important external client, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
- Technology: Put your phone on silent and away. If in an online meeting, mute your microphone when you are not speaking to avoid background noise.