Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Skype for Business, GoToMeeting. Many of us are using one or more video platforms for school, work or personal needs. Love it or hate it, we have to live with the technology.  But compared to in-person meetings, there’s less to go on in terms of body language, energy levels and individual quirks. So how do we get more accurate and thorough video-based connections? Bolster your focus and attention by:

• Creating a brief ritual prior to the call. A few breaths, or a couple minutes writing or centering to connect with who want to be on the call can help focus your intention.
• Making your surroundings comfortable for you as appropriate– with scent, color, material, sound, pictures. Be aware of what they can and cannot see as well as what is reflective of you..
• Watching the frequency of their eye contact with you. Of course, it is important to look at your colleague/client, but also be conscious of how often they look away or engage in other mannerisms while you’re on screen.
• Using earbuds or headphones to miminize external distraction and maximize professionalism. Needs to be mentioned.
• Every so often, taking a breath or two to clear your mind and be more present. Is your mind racing ahead to the next topic or question? Are you truly hearing what they have to say?
• Remembering the positive. We all have positive traits, we all have people and things that are special to us. Consider their strengths and uniquenesses and weave them into the conversation.
• Noticing words or phrases that they repeat throughout your interaction. Acknowledge or clarify as needed. “When you say x, do you mean [your interpretation]?
• Rolling with the technical glitches. The video doesn’t work, you lose the meeting. Sooner or later, it’s going to happen. Use a bit of patience and humor until things resolve or in case they don’t, always discuss a plan B.
• Finally, if you need to take a break from gazing at the screen while conversing, acknowledging your ‘video fatigue’. It takes a higher level of attention to stay on-screen for hours; give yourself a break.

Take a breath and give these techniques a try. Let’s stay connected!