Finessing Virtual Meetings: A Trust-Building Journey

Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 4/01/2024

In increasingly remote work environments, building relationships is no longer only face-to-face interactions. Our ability to connect transcends physical boundaries as we adapt to virtual environs. Just as we intuitively read body language and tone during in-person encounters, remote teams will hone their listening and observation skills. Here are ways to build trust in a virtual landscape.

1. Early Arrival and Warm Greetings
   • Meeting Hosts: Open the meeting link 10-15 minutes early to minimize technical challenges and welcome early arrivals.
     
     
   • Attendees: Arrive 5-10 minutes early and engage with others who share your punctuality.
     
     
2. Levels of Conversation and Trust
   As exchanges begin, deepen trust through different levels of interaction:
   
   
   • Small Talk: Start with neutral topics to break the ice.
     
     
   • Fact Exchange: Share commonality facts to build connections.
     
     
   • Opinions: Exchange experiences and beliefs.
     
     
   • Feelings: As trust grows, vulnerability can forge deeper friendships.
     
     
3. Curiosity and Connection
   
   
   • Learn Something New: At each meeting, discover something unique about another attendee.
     
     
   • Individual Focus: Gone are the days of collecting business cards or handshakes en masse. It’s perfectly acceptable to focus on one person at a time – quality vs. quantity.
     
     
4. Observations and Light Comments
   
   
   • Listen Actively: Pay attention to the interests and activities of others to spark connectivity.
     
     
   • Share Sparingly: When discussing shared interests, leave room for curiosity. Don’t overshadow their experiences with your own.
     
     
   • Warm Comments: A simple compliment like, “I think my wife would love those earrings you’re wearing!” can foster connections.
     
     
5. Amplify Insights and Post-Meeting Reflections
   
   
   • Compliment in Chat: Acknowledge insightful comments of others in the group chat.
     
     
   • Internal Dialogue: Reflect on your internal thoughts during meetings; they may spark a new dialogue.
     
     
   • Follow-up: After a meeting, stay attuned to social media or news related to earlier conversations. If appropriate, share relevant articles via a quick email note.

Remember, remote relationships thrive on genuine connections. By engaging in these practices, we can cultivate authentic bonds even in the virtual realm.

_______________________________________

At LifeSkills Academy, we're dedicated to equipping individuals with crucial life skills. Our e-learning classes, led by seasoned business professionals, delve into Etiquette/Social Intelligence, Financial Skills, and Personal Organization. We invite you to explore our classes and join our community of continuous learners. Sign up for newsletters and class notices to stay informed about valuable life skills content. Together, let's build a foundation for success in our lives and our world.

Share this post!