We've optimized our space and equipment for virtual work.
We're on time, ready to go, in the right frame of mind. This may entail leaving a prior event early to take a break and avoid going back-to-back.
We keep our cameras on and ensure that we're well-lit. Facial expressions convey meaningful data that's important to share.
We keep our microphone on and don't mute ourselves. Laughter, murmurs, sighs, gasps and other sounds are also meaningful data worth sharing.
We wear headphones or ensure that we're in a private space where the conversation won't be overheard by others.
We turn off all other applications and notifications to ensure that we're not interrupted and our attention remains focused on the conversation.
We don't multi-task. Our phones are out of sight for the duration of the conversation.
We don't use chat or text to hold sidebar conversations with other participants. With the exception of breakout rooms, all communication is equally available to all participants.
We strive to find the balance between leaving space for others to complete a thought, and interrupting to express ourselves in the moment.
Thanks to Lisa Stefanac for her insights derived from teaching Interpersonal Dynamics virtually at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Photo by David Fulmer.
