They may not tell you, but at least some of your team members dread virtual meetings. As more workers come back to the office, there are likely to be fewer of these events. However, there will be times when they are necessary. To make them more productive and less stressful and monotonous, forget about cute gimmicks and ‘fun’ activities. Get back to the basics:
- Keep it simple. Have an agenda that is easily achievable and simple, clear goals for your time together. Don’t try to cram too much into a short period of time and make the meetings drag on.
- Focus on the meeting, not the technology. When tech glitches happen, deal with them and move on. For instance, send out PowerPoint programs or other resources in advance in case you can’t screen share.
- Involve employees early. Interact with them as individuals. Ask questions and pay attention to their answers.
- Add a leader. Have another person be a co-moderator.
- Maintain eye contact. Look at the camera lens, not your screen.
