Mind Your Manners

However, just because Skype, teleconferencing or speakerphone meetings may be the appropriate medium, participants must begin and end the meeting on time and be aware of their appearance, demeanor and behavior.

“The same rules apply,” Reddick says. “Dress appropriately. If the meeting is started on the phone, ask permission before going to the speakerphone. Don’t fidget or move unnecessarily—it’s hard for people to sit still.”

Bonati advises to hold in-person meetings when possible. “Doing it in person is better,” she says. “People can understand more.”

In all cases, Reddick says failure to exhibit proper etiquette can have severe consequences.

“Lost sales, lost trust, lost revenue can result from not following these rules,” she says. “They are all reflections on you and your company.”