Etiquette is always about being gracious and making others feel great. That can so easily get lost in this distanced virtual work environment. Here are a few simple things you can do today to exercise great workplace etiquette and show other people that they matter.

1. Listen without distractions. You could be checking email, proofreading reports, or playing Candy Crush on your phone during your videoconferences. But whether your eyes are all over your screen or you fail to answer when you are called on, it shows when you are a distracted listener. Give the gift of your time and undivided attention.
2. Remember names. It’s always surprising how few people remember names these days, like everyone has suddenly gone anonymous in this online “collective.” When you meet someone, study their face and repeat their name (even if just to yourself, because this might sound weird in a video meeting). Do your best to remember key players in videoconferences. It will make someone’s day when you remember their name.
3. Remember birthdays. A step way beyond remembering someone’s name is remembering their special day. Keep a log of the birthdays of your close coworkers, clients, and other constituents (and if you don’t know, ask!). Celebrate them with a little note, a birthday card (mailed or emailed), or a fruit basket.
4. Pick up the phone. It’s nice to see someone’s face at the virtual all-staff meeting, but how often do you really get to interact? When you can’t catch up at the water cooler, try making a phone call instead of sending an email. Phone calls have this lovely way of being more fluid and unpredictable than a laser-focused email. Calls allow for the spontaneity to ask about someone’s family or their weekend plans, to generally build greater rapport, and to get a little something extra out of your human interaction for the day.
5. Send hand-written notes. Anything that is not done virtually will stand out as being different and special. Send hand-written thank-you notes. Mail cards to celebrate birthdays, weddings, births, and promotions. When a coworker experiences loss, send a sympathy card. The recipient will feel great to know that you thought about them enough to sit down with a pen and paper and to actually put something in the mail.