Top tips for online success
While video conferencing definitely has its advantages, it can be a dry and disconnecting experience if not managed well. With most of our interactions now taking place over online platforms, it’s important now more than ever to get the online dynamic right for your teams.
TIP 1 Preparedness
Know your tools, there are so many platforms to be familiar with but there’s also some great tutorials available. Here are the official tutorials from Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
Even if you’re a pro at video chats, it’s worth considering assigning a virtual admin to help out if you hit a technological bump in the road. Having someone assigned to manage adjustments and ensure that all of the audio and visual needs are working appropriately leaves you and the team free to focus on the meeting.
Consider the purpose of the meeting. What do you need to communicate? Does it need to be online?
Send out your agenda as you would any other meeting so your team are able to contribute.
TIP 2 Connection
Create a supportive and team focussed environment by checking in at both the start and the end of each meeting. Remember to introduce new members to the group and explain their roles.
At The Experience Lab we like to liven up our video meetings with an icebreaker to allow participants to feel involved and part of the team. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn where we will share some of our favourites soon.
TIP 3 Collaboration
Online meetings may be unavoidable, but they don’t need to be dry and boring. Communication and collaboration are essential for a productive meeting. Having some ground rules or meeting etiquette can help attendees understand how to communicate and share.
Make sure you leave room for interesting activities. Prepare flip charts, share whiteboards, use group brainstorming, display images, share screens, invite guest speakers and use break-out rooms to transform meeting monotony.
TIP 4 Seek Feedback & Adapt
Seek feedback to gain insight into how your team is dealing with change and if they are enjoying the new way of working. Consider different ways you can involve your team and remember different team members will respond differently to working online and where possible – look to diversify your opportunities to engage.