New research confirms bad behavior runs rampant during virtual meetings

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done during a virtual meeting?

A new survey of 1,000 full-time, part-time, and self-employed U.S. workers reveals that almost three-quarters of them have texted a friend, nearly 30% have left the room and gone for a walk, 21.9% have taken a nap, and more than 13% have even engaged in sexual activity.

Some also participate in virtual meetings from bathrooms, gas stations, and gyms, and many have difficulty paying attention, making eye contact, and not focusing on themselves.

Such a dramatic lack of engagement suggests it’s time for a reset regarding virtual meeting etiquette.

“The survey results speak for themselves,” Joseph Toma, chief executive officer of Jugo, a global leader in immersive virtual experiences that sponsored the survey, told BenefitsPRO. “[They] underscore that a significant number of people feel the current video conferencing landscape falls short, often allowing a lack of accountability and engagement. In the pre-pandemic era, we had well-defined etiquette for in-person meetings. However, when we moved into the remote work scene, it was like the Wild West. We found ourselves navigating uncharted territory where workplace decorum and respect got lost.”

That’s why Jugo partnered with corporate and social etiquette expert Elaine Swann to provide a free online tactical guide to improving virtual meeting behavior. Titled “Jugo Virtual Meeting Etiquette 101,” it focuses on “conveying politeness, respect, and kindness toward others,” according to Toma.

Tips include keeping your camera on, connecting with others by looking directly at the camera when speaking, taking meetings in a quiet place that suggests professionalism, refraining from drinking a beverage when speaking, and avoiding eating on camera (even if muted). Being late and failing to mute yourself in an environment with background noises are two big no-nos.

More than 53 years after the first commercial video call was made on July 1, 1970, it’s more evident now than ever that the communication method is here to stay — and will be a key component of the post-pandemic work environment.

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“Sure, we need people to get their act together on video calls, but it is equally important for companies to provide the right tools and platforms that bridge the hybrid gap and promote inclusive behavior,” Toma adds. “Companies need to implement conferencing platforms that are designed with real people in mind to create an immersive experience where everyone feels seen and heard. Embracing all kinds of communication styles doesn’t just make people feel good, it fundamentally boosts overall productivity and fosters a culture of inclusivity — making the workplace a more collaborative and effective space for all.”