Whether you are waiting for a media interview to begin or even a client meeting via zoom – always assume the mic is hot.
A “hot mic” is a live microphone – it is actively recording or broadcasting whether or not the user is aware.
As is often the case today, it is typical to find yourself waiting for a virtual call, meeting, or interview to begin.
It’s good practice to assume the mic is ALWAYS live. Forgetting can lead to embarrassing gaffes. Just this morning, Senator Tom Carper of Delaware was broadcast using expletives after experiencing technical difficulties.
If you are waiting for a video conference to begin act as if you are being recorded – don’t do or say anything you wouldn’t want anyone on the other end of the camera to hear.
Need tips to help you prepare for those meetings and/or interviews? Download our e-book, A Whole New World: Tips for Great Meetings & Interviews from Home.