David Thacker
Online meetings have become the new norm in our “iso” work routines. Distractions at home, along with technical difficulties, can make it hard to have meaningful and productive meetings.
Our team of public relations professionals at Adoni Media have been meeting every morning (virtually of course!) to boost team morale and ensure everyone is on the same page with the tasks that need completing. Here are some of our top tips on how to master online meetings.
Prepare your workspace
Make sure you have a dedicated workspace at home where there is natural lighting. Decorate your workspace with your favourite things to boost your productivity and creativity.
Check your technology works
Test your camera before your meeting begins to make sure you are in frame and the camera is at eye height so viewers will see you straight on. Make sure you tidy up your background or blur it out on video. Also check your microphone works and compare devices to see which one is the best for video conferencing. Ensure you are in a good position in relation to your internet connection to avoid it cutting out mid-way through the meeting.
Preparation is key
You should treat online meetings like they’re face-to-face. Whether it’s a casual team catch up or an important meeting with the executive team or a client, you need to make sure you are prepared. Have notes in front of you to guide you through the meeting. If you are having any issues, make sure you communicate these with your team and find a way to work around them.
Watch your tone & body language
Combat any nerves with a few simple breathing exercises and shake out your entire body so you can remain calm and focused. Although you are on camera, your posture and body language is important. Remember to look into the camera rather than watching yourself on screen.
Check-in with your colleagues
In these difficult circumstances, consider breaking the ice with a mental health check and asking your colleagues how they are coping. It’s also important to focus on outcomes rather than activity. Everyone is facing different personal and family pressures at home, so be considerate of people’s time and focus on goals and outcomes. That might mean flexible hours, as long as the work is still being completed.
