CedarVia’s Zoom Rules in Plain English: Written, Spoken, and Sung
This Zoom Policy outlines how we prefer to present ourselves in virtual meetings and serves as a practical example of how CedarVia communicates policy in a clear and accessible way. It reflects our commitment to respectful, consistent practices while also showing how policies can be turned into helpful learning tools that support both our team and our values.
"Look sharp, sound clear, and bring your best Zoom self."
Quick List: Our Zoom Rules
What Each Rule Means
1. Use the cedar grove background (green screen on)
CedarVia meetings use a peaceful grove of cedar trees as the standard background. It's part of our brand and gives a calm, natural feel. Turn your green screen ON and make sure the virtual background is working before the call starts.
2. Use the Razer camera — always
We’ve invested in high-quality Razer webcams so you can look your best. No grainy laptop cams, no weird angles — just clear, steady visuals. Plug it in, check the angle, and let it do its magic.
3. Center yourself and sit tall
Position your face in the center of the frame, with a bit of space above your head. Sit up straight like you’re talking to someone in person. It helps others read your face and body language better.
4. Mute when not talking
Even the quietest background noise adds up. Mute your mic when you're not speaking, and unmute when it's your turn. It keeps the meeting smooth and focused.
5. Camera on, unless there’s a reason
We prefer seeing each other. It feels more human and helps build trust. If you’re off camera for a good reason, no problem — just let the group know.
6. Look into the lens (not the screen)
When you speak, try to glance at the camera — not your own face or others on screen. Looking into the lens feels like eye contact to everyone else. It builds connection.
7. Light your face, not your back
If your face is in shadow or you’re backlit by a window, people can’t see you well. Use soft front lighting — a desk lamp or natural light from a window in front of you works great.
8. Wear solid colours (no stripes or green!)
Stripes and patterns can glitch on camera. Green clothes mess with the green screen. Stick to solid colours like blue, grey, or cedar-bark red. Look calm, clean, and clear on screen.
9. Show up 3 minutes early
Open Zoom a few minutes ahead of time. That gives you a chance to check your mic, camera, and background before the meeting starts.
10. Use headphones or a quiet room
Headphones stop sound from echoing or feeding back. If you don’t have them, be in a quiet room. Background noise distracts everyone — including you.
11. Close other apps — Zoom likes full attention
Shut down email, browsers, or anything else that might ping, buzz, or slow things down. Zoom works best when it has your computer’s full attention — and yours.
12. Smile — you’re in the forest now!
Even in tough meetings, bring a warm spirit. The cedar grove is a place of respect, reflection, and care. Let that show on your face.