With hybrid and remote working now firmly embedded in modern workplace culture, virtual social events have become part of the norm. Whether it’s a virtual quiz, birthday toast, or Friday afternoon check-in, many of us find ourselves wondering, what’s actually okay to have on camera? Is it fine to sip a soda, eat a sandwich, or even vape?
While there’s no universal rulebook, social expectations have evolved since the days of pandemic lockdowns, and it’s worth knowing what’s widely acceptable, what may raise eyebrows, and what’s best saved for another time.
Coffee and Tea Are Always a Safe Bet
Let’s start with the obvious. A mug of coffee or tea is generally welcomed in any meeting, social or otherwise. Hot drinks are ingrained in workplace culture, offering both comfort and familiarity. No one will question your choice to keep a warm cup nearby, and some organisations even encourage short coffee breaks as virtual sessions to boost morale and connection.
You’re also free to express yourself through your choice of mug. A branded cup or one with a fun slogan can be a great way to inject personality into a call, without overstepping any boundaries.
Snacks Are Fine, In Moderation
Light snacks are generally considered acceptable during social Zoom events. A bowl of fruit, a biscuit, or some crisps can make an appearance without too much fuss. In professional meetings, it depends on context. While a quick nibble between points might be forgivable, chomping through a packet of crisps while someone’s presenting probably isn’t the best look.
Many companies don’t have formal policies on snacking, but it’s still wise to mute your mic while chewing and opt for quiet, low-effort options if you need to eat during a call.
Vaping Should Stay Social
Vaping is another grey area, butit is usually reserved for social events. In more casual online settings, it may be completely fine, especially if others are doing the same or if your workplace has a laid-back culture. However, it’s rarely acceptable in formal or client-facing meetings, even when working from home.
Ultimately, internal policy will dictate what’s permitted, but if in doubt, it’s polite to ask or vape off-camera. For those who do enjoy vaping in social Zooms, Vape Town offers discreet and stylish vaping products that fit seamlessly into your day without drawing attention.
Alcohol Isn’t the Norm Anymore
Back in 2020, virtual happy hours were a common way to foster connection during long periods of isolation. However, times have changed. These days, most online social events are scheduled during working hours, and bringing alcohol to the camera is rarely encouraged.
Even in after-hours events, it’s a good idea to gauge the vibe first. If others are having a drink, feel free to join in, but be mindful that sipping a glass of wine on camera might not sit well with every colleague, especially in multicultural or intergenerational teams.
Soft Drinks Are Generally Acceptable
Fizzy drinks, sparkling water, or energy drinks are widely tolerated during both work and social calls. That said, some workplaces prefer you to hide branded packaging, especially during meetings that may be recorded or shared externally.
A neutral glass or bottle is a safe bet, and it avoids the awkwardness of your favourite energy drink becoming the unexpected centrepiece of the meeting. On the plus side, soft drinks can make for great conversation starters in social settings.
Full Meals Should Be Chosen Carefully
Eating a full meal on camera is usually frowned upon, unless the meeting is structured around it. For example, a “lunch and learn” or a casual Friday catch-up might come with the expectation that people will be eating while they talk.
In day-to-day meetings, eating a sandwich mid-call can appear unprofessional unless your schedule is genuinely packed back-to-back. If you need to eat during a virtual event, stick with food that’s neat, quiet, and easy to manage. If it takes two hands, makes noise, or diverts your attention, it’s probably not ideal for Zoom.
CBD Edibles Are Still a Grey Area
While CBD is legal and increasingly popular, there’s still a degree of social stigma attached to it. Eating a CBD gummy during a virtual hangout might not raise concern if you don’t make it obvious, but discussing it openly on camera can create tension, especially with colleagues who may not be familiar with its non-psychoactive properties.
Even in social settings, it’s best to keep it discreet. Judgement can vary widely depending on age, culture, and personal beliefs. If you feel uncertain, it’s often easiest to simply eat it without announcing it.
Online social events have their own etiquette, and while they tend to be more relaxed than traditional meetings, they still operate within certain professional boundaries. A good rule of thumb is this: if you wouldn’t do it in a meeting room, think twice before doing it on Zoom. Whether you’re sipping tea, enjoying a snack, or using a vape, it all comes down to being considerate of others while maintaining a sense of workplace decorum.
