Background Information
Doing a video call online can sometimes be a daunting experience. Many people are not sure of the best etiquette to follow during a video call, or what is considered rude and what is not. One question that many have wondered is: is it rude to drink coffee on a Zoom call?
Various opinions on this topic exist. Some people think it is rude to drink coffee or any beverage during a Zoom call, especially if you are expected to engage in important business discussions. On the other hand, some people believe it can be alright, as long as you keep it to a minimum.
To understand the different sides of this debate, we need to look at all perspectives, the relevant data, and insights from experts.
Expert Opinions
Many experts agree that it is common courtesy to be mindful of the other person when participating in a Zoom call. This includes not drinking coffee or any other beverage while the other person is speaking. As professional etiquette expert, Diane Gottsman says, “It’s easy to become distracted by the sound of slurping or sucking and shift the focus away from the conversation.”
It is important to remember that if the person on the other end of the call can see and hear you, then you need to exhibit proper manners and behave professionally. Professional etiquette expert, Rachel Platte recommends “treating your zoom conversation as you would an in-person conversation…it’s courteous to not be doing anything else but focusing on the conversation.” So if you’re doing something like drinking coffee, you may be sending the wrong signal, which can be distracting for the other person.
Relevant Data
There is some data to suggest that drinking coffee during a Zoom call can be alright. A recent survey found that more than 80% of participants thought it was ok to take a sip of coffee while someone was speaking, as long as they did not make too much of a disturbance.
It’s worth noting that drinking coffee during a work call is more inclined to be acceptable as opposed to doing so in an informal setting. Furthermore, the survey also found that most people think it’s rude to take a sip of coffee while someone is speaking in a remote interview.
Analysis
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the answer will depend on the context of the conversation and the people involved.
If you are attending a business call, it is probably best to avoid drinking coffee, as you may come across as unprofessional. It is also important to remember that drinking coffee or any other beverage during a video call may be distracting for the other person.
However, if you are attending a more informal call, it is probably okay to take a sip of coffee – just make sure to be mindful of the other person and not make too much noise.
Non-Verbal Cues
It is worth remembering that while drinking coffee during a call may be considered rude on its own, the nonverbal cues you give can also send a message. For example, if you are drinking coffee while the other person is speaking, it can give the impression that you are not paying attention or are not interested in what is being said.
To avoid giving off a negative impression, it is important to give the other person your full attention and maintain good eye contact. Smiling, nodding, and engaging in the conversation are also important.
Is Coffee Consumption Necessary?
To avoid giving off a negative impression, it is important to give the other person your full attention and maintain good eye contact. Smiling, nodding, and engaging in the conversation are also important.
Is Coffee Consumption Necessary?
The most important point to consider when deciding whether or not to drink coffee during a call is whether or not you actually need to drink it. If it is important for you to have a cup of coffee during the call, then you should go ahead and do so. However, if it is not necessary, then it is best to avoid.
Interacting with Colleagues
If you are in an environment with colleagues, then it is important to be mindful of how your behavior is received. Drinking coffee during a call with colleagues may be seen as unprofessional and disrespectful. It is also important to remember that drinking coffee during a call can be distracting for others, so it is best to do so if it is absolutely necessary.
Other Etiquette to Follow
There are other etiquettes to follow when attending a Zoom call. It is important to make sure you are dressed appropriately, have a good background, and that the sound is clear. As well as avoiding distractions, you should also make sure not to talk over the other person.
Know Your Audience
Different levels of etiquette and politeness apply in different contexts, so it’s important to consider who you are speaking with before deciding whether or not to take drinks onto your Zoom call.
If you are participating in a business call, then it is probably best to avoid drinking coffee. However, if you are speaking with a friend or family member, then it may be alright to take a sip of coffee while they are speaking – just remember to be mindful and not to make too much of a disturbance.
Attitude and Manners
Regardless of the context, it is important to remember to be polite and courteous. Even if you decide to drink coffee during a Zoom call, it is important to do so with a respectful attitude and maintain good manners.
It is also important to remain mindful of the other person and their feelings. Being respectful and attentive can go a long way towards making the conversation more enjoyable and productive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not it is rude to drink coffee on a Zoom call depends on the context and who you are speaking with. When attending a business call, it is probably best to avoid drinking coffee as it can be distracting and unprofessional. However, if you are speaking with a friend or family member, then it may be alright to take a sip of coffee – just be sure to do it with a respectful attitude and remember to be mindful of the other person.
