The absence of video call manners is frustrating for everyone

I'm working remotely full-time, and video calls with coworkers are 50% of my time. Working from home (or remote work in general) can trick us into being in too relaxed mode.

This is my list of DO's and DONT's

- Don't message someone while I'm talking to you.

Your eyes are wandering around. You're typing. It's obvious and impolite. I'd rather stop talking and let you finish.

If there is some urgency, just say it: Excuse me, I need one minute to respond to some urgent messages.

- Mute your microphone, all the time.

You're drinking coffee or having some snacks. It's pretty impolite chewing out loud to everyone's ears.

Make a "unmute to talk" habit. Video call apps usually support some "hold key to unmute" feature, which is quite efficient.

- Turn on your camera.

It's so hard to have a decent conversation without looking at body language. If you're nodding your head while I'm talking, it tells me a lot.

Otherwise, explain why you cannot turn on the camera, but make it an exception.

- Dress appropriately.

Sitting in a beach cafe doesn't justify showing up on a call in a bikini. Yes, I've seen those as well.

Rather turn off the camera in this case.