Ready or not, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 certainly pushed the business world into remote work and increased technology use. Whether you call it adapting, pivoting, shifting, moving forward, or some other catchy moniker, it was a change we all needed to embrace. Of course, any change can be challenging – those affecting individuals and their work styles are often the most difficult. While Success Trek has always worked remotely at some level, the need to rely on it more even affected us.
Theresa facilitates several workshops and retreats each year for Success Trek clients. Before the pandemic, in-person events were the norm. If you have ever attended one of these events, you have witnessed Theresa’s animation and enthusiasm in working with any group. She is very hands-on and relies on flip charts, sticky notes, and all other sorts of non-virtual materials. Pivot to virtual and a three-dimensional whirlwind flattens to two-dimensional where technology can’t replace the in-person and hands-on aspects.
Cue KISS – no, not the rock band, the acronym for Keep It Simple Stupid, a design principle noted by the U.S. Navy in 1960. Applying this principle to the technologies used for virtual events benefitted Theresa, Success Trek, and our clients.
🔷 First, stick with a platform that you know. Since Success Trek is familiar with Zoom, we have maintained that as our go-to virtual conferencing technology.
🔷 Second, limit the “bells and whistles.” While Zoom has released many exciting but often distracting features, sticking with the simple tools enables us to keep everyone and everything on track. Since practice makes (nearly) perfect, whatever platform you use, be familiar with and practice using the tools to facilitate smooth virtual events. Remember to build a few minutes into the start of the actual event for participants unfamiliar with the platform to learn how to use the tools.
🔷 Third, keep the virtual connection length reasonable. Break into smaller events or build in breaks more often than you would an in-person event. Binge-participating in an 8-hour webinar is much different from binge-watching 8-hours of your favorite series.
🔷 Finally, ask that all participants have an active video connection – this is especially important in medium to smaller group events. The ability to connect by seeing faces (even Brady Bunch box style) benefits facilitators and participants.
With time and experience, Theresa and the Success Trek team have gained the technical skills necessary to facilitate smooth virtual events. In our pivot to virtual lives, we have also rediscovered the simplicity of notes, phone calls, and even text messages to remain connected to others. While it is a continuing effort, what was initially challenging is no longer a significant obstacle.
How can we help?
If you or your team need help to identify obstacles and challenges in your workplace situation, contact Theresa, or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a 30-minute Complimentary Conversation. Reaching a goal is a journey, and Success Trek is here to take that journey alongside you.
