When the Covid 19 pandemic hit the globe, several companies resulted to work from home, and connect with one another online, as we strived to prevent a spread of the virus. Many of us resulted to the global virtual apps so as to enable work to continue without any disruptions.
However, during the virtual meetings, a lot of participants tend to lose focus as a result of distractions from the surroundings, leading to under performance.
Most of us may not be aware that atking small steps to ensure that we are present during the zoom meetings can make a world of difference. Not only can staying focused and engaged improve our performance and productivity, but it can also help strengthen our bonds with co-workers.
What hence are the go-to tips for staying present and attentive in your virtual calls and conferences and Which of these strategies would you add to your workday routine?
- Ground yourself
One of the go-to practice for staying present on a virtual call happens before the call. Always ensure that you take a minute to get present by feeling your feet on the ground, closing your eyes, and taking in a few deep breaths.
2. Put away your phone
With so many back-to-back virtual calls these days, it’s hard not to get distracted. You may find that closing your email is beneficial for focus. That way, you are not distracted by the ping of new messages. You can also place your phone face down for the same reason.
3. Take a minute to settle in
To achieve this, you may use a tool called ‘A Minute to Arrive’. You could invite all the participants to take a deep breath and let go of the day’s activities, irritations, and stresses, and give themselves permission to be fully present in the video call. It gives everyone the opportunity to get their headspace in the right place and let go of the frustrations of the last meeting or previous activity.
4. Use the two-questions rule
Always ask questions as they lead to discussions, brainstorms and conversations.
5. Grab a pen and paper
Jotting notes on a notepad or whiteboard is essential in the virtual world. It can be helpful to avoid typing on your keyboard when doing a virtual call as its such an easy way to get distracted, and awful if you forget to mute your mic and all you hear is the click-clack of your fingers on the keyboard. This could also allow your eyes to disconnect from the screen, giving them a much-needed break.
6. Go full screen
When in a meeting and want to stay fully focused, always set up in a quiet room with a door that closes. Turn your camera on, and most importantly, put your settings to full screen. If you have it minimized so that you can see other tabs, you will start to multitask, check emails, or take care of other work. Not having those visual distractions will keep you focused.
7. Decline calls that are “low value”
Virtual fatigue is real. But one thing that can help you stay present is a simple thought: ‘Be in, or out.’ If you attend a call, give it your full attention.
When you are curious, focused, and all-in, you automatically notice more things and get more out of the call. It’s a bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy. You can also do your utmost to avoid calls that have a history of being low-value. This will allow you to better preserve and manage your attention.
