Top Tips for Online Meeting Etiquette

Discover the key rules of online meeting etiquette to improve your virtual interactions and build exciting new digital friendships.

Let’s face it — polishing up your online meeting etiquette is the ultimate 21st-century vibe. Whether connecting with someone across the globe or catching up with a friend two blocks away, one-on-one video chats are here to stay.

But if you want to nail effective virtual meetings, you've got to play the game. Keeping things cool, cozy and light ensures every conversation feels less like an awkward “uh, your mic is off” moment and more like a fun hangout.

From setting up your space to keeping conversations fresh and exciting, we’re bringing you the top tips for good virtual meeting etiquette that’ll make you a video chat legend on platforms like Azar. Ready to level up your chat game? Let’s dive in!

Setting the Scene: Make Your Space Pop

If you think setting up for a video call is just about opening your laptop and sitting in front of a blank wall, think again. Vibes matter — even in the digital world. You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy backdrop, but creating a fun and comfortable environment makes all the difference. Here’s how to do it:

1. Personalize Your Screen (Without Going Overboard)

Sure, nobody’s asking you to give an MTV Cribs-style tour of your room, but putting a bit of thought into what’s in the background can spice up your virtual etiquette. Add a few personal touches that scream ‘you.’ String up fairy lights, show off your plant collection or feature your favorite posters. Make sure your laundry isn’t visible (unless mismatched socks are your aesthetic).

2. Face Filters: Because Why Not?

You’re not always going to feel camera-ready (hello, Monday mornings). Luckily, that’s where face filters come in handy. On Azar, you can add some subtle face-tuning features, like a flick of mascara, color in your cheeks or smoothing out your skin. You’ll be ready to chat any time of day.

3. Light It Up Like a Pro

Good lighting = instant glow-up. You don’t need a Hollywood production, just try these quick fixes instead:

• Natural light: Sit by a window and let the sunshine do its thing. You’ll look refreshed and full of life — even if you’ve just rolled out of bed.
• Ring lights: If you’re extra (and we respect that), invest in a ring light. You’ll always be perfectly lit.

Also remember, quality audio means you can be clearly understood in your video calls. Make sure nothing is resting on your mic, and consider even using an accessible pro mic to make your voice extra smooth and crisp.

4. Comfy Is Key

You might be chatting for a bit, so you may as well get comfortable. Make sure the temperature is alright, grab a pillow, pour yourself some tea (or coffee, no judgment) and settle into your chat space. Bonus points if you’ve got a blanket within arm’s reach.

Etiquette for Casual Conversations

We’ve all been there — awkward silences, someone talking over you and that one person who’s clearly multitasking while pretending to listen. Don’t be that person. Here’s how to keep your chat etiquette on point and avoid common video chat pitfalls.

Know When To Chat and When To Chill

Online conversations should flow like a good table tennis match: You serve, they serve, and back and forth it goes. Give your chat partner space to talk, and when they’re speaking, give them your full attention. Don’t just wait for your turn to say something — actually listen and ask follow-up questions to show you care.

Multitasking? Major Nope.

Sure, you could scroll social media feeds while chatting, but this doesn't mean you should. Non-verbal cues like distraction can convey you're not interested and might take away from the connection you're building. Proper virtual meeting etiquette is about being present: No one likes feeling like they’re competing with your notifications. If you really need to check something mid-chat, be upfront about it — “Hang on a sec, I need to check a message” — but try not to make it a habit.

Mistakes We’ve All Made (But Should Avoid)

We're only human and we all deserve some grace. But there are a few best practices to keep in mind to avoid the major no-nos nobody likes to be confronted with. Keep things peachy with these tips:

• Avoid talking over the other participant: A slight delay in video chats can make conversations tricky. Wait a beat before responding to avoid that awkward “no, you go — no, you go” situation.
• Don't forget you’re on camera: We’ve all zoned out and grabbed a snack, only to realize mid-bite that we’re still on camera. Stay engaged and aware.
• Good mic etiquette: Make sure your microphone is clear, and if you’re in a noisy environment, consider muting yourself when you’re not talking.

The Art of Ending a Chat Gracefully

No one likes that weird limbo where you’re not sure if the conversation is over or not. Good virtual meeting etiquette to make the exit smooth is saying something like, “This was fun! Let’s chat again soon” or “Hey, I’ve got to run, but I’ll catch you later!”

It’s all about leaving the door open for future chats while staying as cool as an emperor penguin.

Keeping Conversations Engaging

We all want to have engaging and inspiring connections with new people — and you can! You don’t need to be a stand-up comedian or a philosophy major to keep chats lively. Here’s how to make sure your online meetups never hit the snooze button:

Use Icebreakers That Actually Work

Using icebreakers is your secret etiquette guideline for breaking that first barrier of awkwardness. If you're going for something more out-of-the-box, try answering the questions yourself first. This creates a reciprocal space and can help ease your chat partner into the convo. Here are a few that’ll get people laughing, thinking and talking:

• What’s the weirdest food combo you’ve ever tried?
• If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
• What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to learn?

Ask Fun, Thought-Provoking Questions To Keep Things Going

Once the ice is broken, keep the momentum going with the other participant. Questions that make us think have a way of alleviating stress and building connections. Plus, they take us out of serious realms and into more goofy, natural vibes. Try these out:

• Would you rather: Always have to sing instead of speak or only be able to whisper for the rest of your life?
• What’s your dream travel destination: If you could go anywhere, with no budget limits, where would you jet off to?

It’s all about mixing lighthearted questions with those that get a bit deeper, sparking conversations that stay engaging and fun.

Talk About Things That Matter to You

Want to know the secret to a killer conversation? Be genuine. Instead of fishing for “interesting” topics, talk about what genuinely excites you. Whether it’s your new favorite show, that one time you accidentally locked yourself out of your house or your dream of becoming a professional bubble-wrap popper — if you’re into it, it’ll show and people will respond to your enthusiasm.

Remember, authenticity is the key to effective communication, so express yourself and let your light shine.

Spark Engaging Conversations on Azar

Now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to put those etiquette skills to the test. Azar is a great virtual meeting platform for discovering new people, building friendships and keeping conversations exciting.

And hey, if you’re feeling a bit nervous about diving into a new conversation, remember: Everyone’s in the same boat! A little bit of humor, a dash of listening and a sprinkle of good audio are all you need to stand out.

Online meeting etiquette is your ticket to having fun, meaningful conversations without the cringe. Whether making new friends or reconnecting with old ones, being polite, fun and engaged will leave a lasting impression. So go on, fire up that video chat and bring your A-game. May your virtual communication be ever interesting!

Start Chatting now!