NCET Biz Tips: Communicating Inside the Box – Social Distancing Meets Zoom
by Christina Nemec, founder of SimplyWorded.com
For the foreseeable future, human interaction has been confined to “staying out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance.” If that sentence sounds sterile to you, it should. It’s the CDC’s language defining the parameters of social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. And though social distancing does wonders for keeping communities healthy, it can also effectively wipe out the magic of face-to-face interactions. There goes the firm handshake—right down the drain—along with mirroring, leaning in, and the good old-fashioned pat on the back. So what do we do?
The thing is, we can’t think outside the box since we’re all stuck inside of it — a collective gallery of talking heads — trapped in one big computer screen. So, while we have the chance, let’s take a look at improving our video conferencing skills.
Lights. Camera. Action!
Honestly, I’m not a big fan of watching myself during a video conference. There’s something distracting about seeing myself talk. But there are ways of minimizing the discomfort while creating authentic connections.
For hosts: Make sure you address accessibility for your guests prior to the meeting. You may include closed captioning, automatic transcripts, and videotaping to share afterwards.
Greet attendees as they populate the meeting. (Think of this as a handshake.)
Offer a short tutorial using a screen share if needed.
Establish participation expectations and explain how participants can join in.
Mix things up with breakout rooms.
Allow for silence. Let participants think.
For all:
Ditch the snowflake jammies and bunny slippers. Dressing adds ethos to your words. Studies show we communicate more professionally when dressed and pressed (and not just from the waist up).
First, mute your microphone. Turn off your camera. Review notes.
When ready to roll, don’t hide behind your name or a funny cat meme. Allow others to see your expressions and encourage conversations.
Break the silence. Most hosts appreciate productive interaction.
Pay attention. Take notes. Don’t check texts.
Listen actively. Smile. Speak back another’s ideas before voicing opinions.
Use manners. Some platforms allow you to “raising a hand.”
Keep the mute on. Barking dogs and crying babies can distract others.
Be discrete. Chat silently with another party if appropriate.
When the meeting is done, express a sincere “Thanks!”
It’s a wrap!
Yes, we’re spending more time apart, but we’re not doomed to disconnect. Let’s use this time to reflect and connect more deeply.
Learn about communicating effectively at NCET’s online Biz Cafe on at 3 pm on April 15, 2020. NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology. Find more info at www.NCETcafe.org
Christina Name
Christina Nemec is the founder of Simply Worded, www.simplyworded.com. Christina’s mission is to help business professionals navigate the complex world of face-to-face and written communication with elegance, confidence, and purpose.