If your time in quarantine has been anything like mine, then you found yourself constantly participating in a myriad of online meetings. In my case, the past several weeks revolved around a whirlwind of Zoom meetings, birthday parties, happy hours, and graduations.
GenZers call themselves “Zoomers,” but don’t forget us original Baby Boomer and Generation X Zoomers!
Who remembers sending snail mail to: ZOOM, Z-double-O-M, Box 3-5-0, Boston, Mass 0-2-1-3-4?
ZOOM
“Zooming” took on a new meaning when offices and schools across the country closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The world went virtual and people connected from their homes through phones calls and video conferencing. Here are a few tips for a smoother Zoom experience from an original Zoomer.
Tips for Better Videoconferences
Use Mute: Host with authority and mute yourself when participating in meetings if you are not speaking. Muting eliminates background noise and prevents participants from talking over each other.
Test Your Tech: Now that everyone knows how to join a call and use the webcam, don’t waste time checking audio during the Zoom session. Test before the time of the webinar and wait for the delay before you respond to a question or make a comment.
Unmute In A Snap: Simply tap or hold down your computer’s space bar to unmute yourself – one of the best Zoom tricks out there.
Look Your Best: Place a light source in front of you to highlight that fabulous face. Lamps or windows behind you will only illuminate your background and create shadows.
Manage Body Language: If your camera is on, so are you. Use body language instead of words to communicate. Nod, give a thumbs up, smile. A simple smile and nod communicate understanding to participants. Remember that we’re all human, even when we Zoom.
For 37 years, we have helped organizations see what they were missing, hear who they were overlooking, and communicate with the people who matter most.
Keep it simple and try my Two for Two approach: Focus on adopting two new resolutions and releasing two practices or ideologies that no longer align with your values or serve your bottom line.
This year let’s do something different. Let’s make Black history. Diversity weaves a sustainable economic fabric for the communities within which employees, suppliers, and customers live.
Have you ever wanted to ask a prospect or a client that infamous question: “Can you hear me now?” If you’re like me, the answer is a resounding YES. Effective communication matters.
