Adjusting to a new normal isn't easy, and spiralling out of control can become the easier option. That's what happened to Chris Platzer, a city official from Vallejo, California, who was spotted drinking beer during a city planning commission meeting. But that wasn't the only inappropriate thing he did. After telling the other members that he'd like to introduce his cat, he lifted the feline and threw it with an audible thud. After several city leaders called for his resignation, Platzer gave in his resignation saying, "I did not conduct myself in the Zoom meeting in a manner befitting of a planning commissioner and apologise for any harm I may have inflicted." While virtual meetings will continue to be a crucial part of our work lives for the foreseeable future, here's how you should be conducting yourself for them.

Prepare in advance

Nidhika Bahl, a city-based internationally certified success coach, says that preparation is a must. "A meeting on Zoom is as good as any other meeting," she says. You need a designated work space and it cannot be your dining table. The background behind you shouldn't be too busy as it will be distracting. Always dress for the context. If you're going to be doing an audio call that displays your profile picture, then set a professional image, not one where you're on a vacation or doing something silly. Keep your family and pets out of the space; lock the door if you can. Also, test your audio and video connection beforehand.