In the world before COVID-19, the default way to meet was by phone. Within a few short months, that default has flipped to Zoom, MSTeams, GoToMeeting etc.
So strange. A colleague set up a phone meeting with me the other day – and it was so refreshing not to have to sit in front of my computer, laptop, or phone!
Since this video/audio conferencing is the new norm, I suggest your team set up some ground rules for team communication.
Seth Godin suggests these Zoom agreements:
“If you promise not to check your email while we’re talking, we promise to not waste your time.
If you agree to look me in the eye and try to absorb the gist of what I’m saying, I agree to be crisp, cogent, and on point.
If you are clear about which meetings are a waste of time for you to attend, we can be sure to have them without you.
If you can egg me on and bring enthusiasm to the interaction, I can lean into the work and reflect back even more energy than you’re contributing.
The purpose of a meeting is not to fill the allocated slot on the Google calendar invite. The purpose is to communicate an idea and the emotions that go with it, and to find out what’s missing via engaged conversation.
If we can’t do that, let’s not meet.”
Amen, brother!
For more information about how to lead your team in the virtual environment, use these resources.
KRISTIN ARNOLD, MBA, CPF | Master, CSP is a high-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator. She’s been facilitating teams of executives and managers in making better decisions and achieving greater results for over 20 years. She is the author of the award-winning book, Boring to Bravo: Proven Presentation Techniques to Engage, Involve and Inspire Audiences to Action.
Recent Articles:
How to Facilitate a Virtual Meeting: Roles, Tips, & Responsibilities
What to Look For When Hiring a Meeting Facilitator
Stretch your Leadership Team’s Ability to Think Strategically
