Many workers have yet to get into the remote work setup. However, this may soon change.
A write-up by industry experts on remote work has concluded that remote work is to increase into 2023, especially as more reports on its benefits for productivity have been released. This means that more businesses and companies, even those insistent on working from the office, may decide to issue remote positions.
Working remotely may seem daunting for first-timers. However, you can easily overcome the learning curve and reap its benefits. Here, virtual meetings are one of the important aspects of remote work that you will have to brush up on. Let’s take a closer look at this below.
Availability of platforms
Virtual meetings can be hosted on an array of platforms, and some of the most popular ones include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. We’ve featured the latter in a previous post, wherein we highlighted a few of the app’s best features, such as its ability to include 100 people in a virtual meeting or accessibility features like real-time automatic captioning.
New remote workers should ask their management ahead of time about the organization’s communication platforms. Your new workplace may use a generic platform or even have one specially tailored to their operations. Either way, try to familiarize yourself with the platform’s configuration by watching online videos or running test trials so that participation goes smoothly during your next call.
Expected decorum
Those unfamiliar with the remote working setup may assume that flexibility extends toward virtual meetings and regular meeting decorum can be set aside. However, technology’s versatility actually makes it easier to maintain a professional presence according to tips for mastering your professional video presence by LHH. That’s because although you may not be in a standard conference room, you can still control what and how you present online.
This means that you can position yourself by a plain wall or a bookshelf, or take advantage of a platform’s virtual backgrounds to conceal any clutter in your home. You can wear an outfit that looks better onscreen and control your nonverbal communication by sitting straight and smiling so that you appear attentive. Don’t worry if you make mistakes — a video call is not like a regular conversation, and you need to be more engaged and emotive to create a positive impression. With practice, your performance can improve.
Video call fatigue
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself tiring more quickly than usual in a call. Research shows that video call fatigue is real and this stems from factors like an excessive amount of direct eye contact or constant self-evaluation. There’s also the fact that participating in video calls may increase cognitive load, meaning more mental effort is needed.
Two easy potential fixes are hiding the self-view and minimizing the video call screen. However, this isn’t sustainable in the long run, and your co-workers may eventually have to cross the bridge by asking the management to reevaluate operations. Suggestions may include giving people breaks to look away from their screens during video calls or taking advantage of other non-video communication platforms.
Virtual meetings will soon become a norm in your professional life when you prepare yourself physically and mentally. With the right approach, you can thoroughly enjoy the benefits of technology as you reach your career goals from the comfort of your home.