Upon completing the Sending Forth song, do not immediately turn away from the congregation to start packing up your space and stuff. Please stand there and look toward the congregation for a few moments to acknowledge their (inevitable) applause.
It is a sign of respect to your fellow St. Michael's community members of their appreciation for your efforts and willingness to present your talents for the Mass. If you've ever been in the congregation to give applause for a music ministry who performed the music very well for the Mass, it may have felt slightly futile if the music ministry had already turned away to start packing up. Let us provide the congregation that opportunity.
Alternatively, you can stand there for a few moments and simply give thanks to God. Just face the congregation when you do!
