Some team members are disengaged in virtual team meetings. How can you reinvigorate their participation?
Virtual meetings can feel impersonal, but you can bring energy back. To reinvigorate participation:
How do you encourage active participation in your virtual meetings?
Some team members are disengaged in virtual team meetings. How can you reinvigorate their participation?
Virtual meetings can feel impersonal, but you can bring energy back. To reinvigorate participation:
How do you encourage active participation in your virtual meetings?
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The first thought should be: evaluate the the meeting and determine if it adds value. Assuming it does... Define clear objectives and appropriate length. When the purpose is unclear or the meeting is going off track, attention tends to wander. Clarity can help to re-engage those who might otherwise tune out. Consider breaking larger groups into smaller discussion groups or breakout sessions. Smaller groups allow for more intimate conversations, where individuals might feel less self-conscious about sharing their thoughts. This is particularly important in virtual meetings where the absence of face-to-face interaction can make it harder for some people to speak up.
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You accomplish this in the same manner that you keep interest and engagement in an in-person meeting, and this starts before the meeting even begins, or is scheduled. Determine if the meeting is really necessary...if you are just spreading information without real interaction, then it isn't. If you are interacting with the team, ensure you are interacting with the entire team and use these interactions to keep the entire audience engaged. Read the room and alter your deliver to keep things moving. Have breaks, both scheduled and impromptu as necessary. And be dynamic. Don't just click the advance button and read the slide.
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1. Pass the Mic: Rotate who runs the meeting. A new facilitator keeps things lively and engaging. 2. Mini Challenges: Throw in surprise quizzes or lightning brainstorming rounds. People love a little competition. 3. Theme It Up: Try ‘Casual Friday’ meetings or ‘Pet Cameos’ to break the ice. It’s amazing how small, fun touches re-engage everyone.
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