Ep 4 | Zoom Better [ Season 2 ]

Technology is progressing at an exploding pace. Since the pandemic, remote conversations and conferences have increased, something that wasn’t normal to most of us before. But whatever the cause, we’re all forced to adapt to the change. And it starts with learning effective virtual communication.In this episode of the Advance Podcast, Mike teaches you how to make the best out of virtual conferencing and communication by sharing the three specifics to doing it right. He teaches you to convert the virtual communication “obstacle” into an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with people anywhere, from anywhere. Listen in to learn more!EPISODE 4 SUMMARY & HIGHLIGHTSWhy do many people find virtual communication challenging? 03:42 There are two different modes in which people operate: the social mode and the solo mode. In the social mode, even if you’re an introvert, you’re in the mental state to talk to people openly. You’re attuned to your ears, body, and are fully physically present in the conference room or sales meeting or wherever you are in the social setting.When in solo mode, you’re with your computer doing your job, managing tasks for yourself by yourself. When the pandemic happened, everything started to occur at the same time, your social mode started to run over your solo mode. People started behaving the same way in social mode even when in solo mode. That kind of behavior de-energizes the whole room.How can you improve virtual communication?08:031. Get a decent setup. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it has to be decent. Look professional.  Invest some time in a backdrop, get some lights behind the camera, blackout curtains for any windows that add light where you don't want it, a good camera, and a microphone.11:262. Eye-contact. Be able to speak to the other people in the eye. Set up the lighting and background in a way that’s less distractive. Position your camera in a way that you’re able to look at it while you speak.13:553. Energy-level. Treat yourself well, aim at putting our best foot forward, give your best shot. Use gestures and good communication practices to sound energetic and present.KEY QUOTES:06:59-07:05“Anytime you're virtual conferencing, start acting like you're with people.”07:42-07:46“A whole bunch of people being de-energized, de-energizes the room.”18:39-18:53“Zoom is an obstacle and an opportunity. An obstacle because we're not right here together holding hands. I'm not doing this training in person. It's also an opportunity because I can do this training for you wherever you are and have viewers around the world.”RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST●      BOOK: Speak & Meet Virtuallyby Mike AckerCONNECT WITH MIKELinkedIn