Being mobile in a virtual business world probably means that you'll do some teleconferencing. For the most part, this is a good thing because it saves you time and money by not having to travel. However, there are some negatives, and they are typically related to not understanding proper etiquette for distance meetings. Never forget that a good professional relationship with coworkers and other business associates is essential to doing business.

Before the Call

Be prepared for the meeting. If you are the host, make sure everyone has an agenda far enough in advance to know what is going to be discussed. Encourage everyone to send questions in advance so you can have time to do whatever research is necessary. Attendees should read over the agenda and make notes on questions or comments to save time during the meeting.

Professional Environment

Set up your area as you would any professional office. Remove any distractions that might hinder your ability to be fully engaged in the meeting. If you have a noisy pet, get far enough away so the others in the meeting don't have to hear it. If you work from home with children present, make sure your spouse or the sitter knows that you are not to be interrupted unless there's fire or blood. Unless there is no other option, it's not a good idea to attend a teleconference from a coffee shop or other public place.

Timeliness

Always show up on time, just as you would any other business meeting. Being late is inconsiderate of others and shows that you don't take your professionalism seriously.

If you are the host or have a leadership role, be there early to greet attendees as they arrive. There may be a time when you can't get to the teleconference before it begins. Quietly join the group and only make an excuse if someone asks for it. Save the apologies for later and explain your circumstances privately with the host.

Background Noise

Turn off all background noise such as the TV or radio. Know where the mute button is and be ready to press it if a loud sound suddenly erupts. If you have to use it, remember to turn the sound back on before you speak, or no one will be able to hear you. Turn off call wait. You don't want to interrupt the meeting with beeps and buzzes as someone tries to get in touch with you.

Identify Yourself

Before you speak, identify yourself to prevent confusion. When you have a question or comment for another attendee, mention that person's name first. Remember that you don't have the advantage of meeting the gaze of others during this meeting. In order to avoid everyone responding at once, address each person by name when you have a question.

Brevity

Keep the meeting as brief as possible. If you only have a few things to discuss, there is no point in having an hour-long meeting, simply because that's what you've always done in the past.

As soon as you finish all the topics on the agenda, ask for questions that pertain to the group and then end the meeting when everything has been covered. Some issues may need further discussion, but if they only pertain to a couple of people, encourage them to have a separate meeting.

End the Teleconference

When everything has been said, end the meeting if you are the host. Thank the others for attending and encourage them to come back to you privately with questions.

If you are an attendee, thank the host and hang up. Send a brief thank you note to each person who responded to your questions.

Post Meeting

The meeting leader should send a follow-up message with the points that were discussed and decisions that the group made. At this point, you may want to do a survey of opinion on how well the meeting went. Ask for suggestions to make future meetings even better and thank everyone again for their attendance and participation.