Featured Productivity Tool: Virtual Meetings

While many people love connecting face-to-face, there's a lot to be said about the power of virtual meetings. Networking events are great ways to meet new people, while saving time, energy, and money. Think of all the things you can do in lieu of traveling to in-person events. For instance, you can attend more virtual meetings!

I recently spoke with Innovation Women founder Bobbie Carlton; John Chen, CEO, Engaging Virtual Meetings; and virtual event designer Robbie Samuels about their love of virtual events and how to be better attendees. 

When in a virtual meeting, turn on your camera, Robbie says. And don't be backlit; let people see you. Bobbie recommends being aware of your surroundings ... and the amount of time you spend speaking. John says, if you are hosting, don't wait for everyone to arrive to start the program. Reward those who are early and on time. 

We all agree that using the Zoom chat to engage is a wonderful way to stand out.

John suggests finding ways to start or keep the conversation going. For instance, ask questions. That will get you noticed by the host, speakers, and other attendees. Bobbie says to be a "volunteer scribe." When someone says something interesting, type it in the chat. Adds Robbie, When a resource is mentioned, find the link and share it.

For more tips ... 

Watch our conversation: 

Goals for Virtual Meetings

• Robbie: Meeting hosts, figure out your Zoom settings. Get Robbie’s checklist 
• Bobbie: Get comfortable with public speaking. If you are in the audience, take a step for getting comfortable: ask a question on camera 
• John: Read the first three chapters of his book: Engaging Virtual Meetings. Also, engage in the way that works for you! 

Final Thoughts 

Whether you are attending virtual events to further your writing, marketing, or your business goals, approach them the same way attend live ones. Prepare ahead of time: make sure your online presence matches the way you introduce yourself and that your profile pic looks like you. Be present and attentive. And follow up with new connections in a timely manner. It'll be a win for everyone involved!

Read the complete recap.

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For more inspiration and motivation, follow @TheDEBMethod on Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin! 

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What's your best tip for virtual meetings? Please share in the comments. 

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Debra Eckerling is the award-winning author of Your Goal Guide: A Roadmap for Setting, Planning and Achieving Your Goals and founder of the D*E*B METHOD, which is her system for goal-setting simplified. A goal-strategist, corporate consultant, and project catalyst, Debra offers personal and professional planning, event strategy, and team building for individuals, businesses, and teams. She is also the author of Write On Blogging and Purple Pencil Adventures; founder of Write On Online; host of the #GoalChat Twitter Chat, #GoalChatLive on Facebook and LinkedIn, and The DEB Show podcast. She speaks on the subjects of writing, networking, goal-setting, and social media.