Basic rules of etiquette, plus advance planning, can help you get the most from "face time," even if the faces are a thousand miles apart.

In today's decentralized, global business environment, videoconferencing is a cost-effective way to communicate with geographically distant clients and colleagues. But everyone who has sat through an hour of extraneous noises, meandering agendas and "Can you repeat that?" knows that using the technology requires discipline–and etiquette.

If you're unfamiliar or uncomfortable facing a camera and microphone, the Emily Post Institute offers these suggestions:

• Mind Your Manners. The essentials of a good meeting are even more crucial in a videoconference. Limit participants to those who need to attend. Discourage the use of cell phones, Blackberrys or other distractions. Create, circulate and stick to an efficient and well-designed agenda and schedule. And be on time.
• Avoid Glitches. Make sure your system is working optimally prior to the meeting. Use the "self-view" window or a test call to make sure the camera angles permit "eye contact" with participants–and remove visual distractions from the background. Check sound quality with a short test call to the remote location.
• Don't Fidget. Keep your range of motion natural but limited. Moving forward and back makes for inconsistent audio, while side-to-side motion can take you out of video frame. Maintain the eye contact you established previously. Avoid multitasking or turning away from the camera.
• Be Considerate. Remember that the microphone captures everything, irrespective of importance or clarity. Avoid side conversations, and use the mute function when you are not speaking. Don't speak over people or interrupt. Speak clearly and loudly.

For more details, view the full Emily Post Institute list online. Also, if you are presenting or being interviewed by videoconference, consider speaking to an image consultant to be sure your outfit does not distract those watching you onscreen (color combinations and jewelry tips that apply for television appearances serve as solid guidelines).

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