When it comes to online communication, we all know what it’s like to face glitches. Frozen faces, fuzzy connection, and cut-off conversation. These things are generally down to internet connection, but what about team member connections?
It’s not Zoom’s fault if your team is struggling to communicate effectively, and there are things you can do to help level up your communication with team members.
Let’s look at ways we can improve communication, work towards a better functioning team, and say goodbye to being lost in translation over Zoom.
Schedule check-ins!
Put time aside in the week to check in with your team and cover any issues anyone may have. It’s a great way to stay connected and allows you to share insight, good feedback, and changes with team members. It keeps everyone in the loop and keeps communication channels open.
But make sure not to overdo it. Workers may get frustrated if time is taken away from them to execute their work. Also try to schedule these calls at times when the meeting won’t distract them or interrupt their workflow. Breakfast or “coffee” meetings are a good option. Don’t forget to take into account different time zones too.
Encourage two-way conversations
The conversation is a two-way street, so making moves to facilitate this is vital. Ask questions to your employee to find out how they’re doing and offer suggestions on how they can improve.
This means that, as an employer, you can address your issues, and as an employee, they will feel more comfortable and confident with their performance. Studies show that most workers prefer constructive comments in place of general praise. Productive feedback can strengthen relationships and hugely improve communication.
Maximize the flow of information
Usually, the flow of information works from the top downward, from management to employees. Comments from staff can also be distorted by the time they make their way to business leaders.
This can cause big blips in communication within an organization, but there are ways you can make sure information flows more efficiently. Providing communication training to staff and ensuring the correct information systems are in place can help each staff member access and share new knowledge
Start using the chat windows more
Making the most of the chat window on Zoom can be a great way to clear up any confusion or illicit questions and information. Everyone takes in information differently, be it visually or audibly, so offering both on your Zoom call kills two birds with one stone. For example, if the speaker covers a lot of great information, it can be beneficial to provide a visual recap in the chat window.
Remember the importance of eye contact
It can be hard to get the same connection as an in-person conversation, but remembering the importance of eye contact and presence can make all the difference.
When it’s your turn to speak or ask questions, make an effort, place your focus on the webcam as if you were talking directly to someone. You can even move the position of your slides next to the webcam to appear like you are making eye contact throughout.
Also, it’s important to remember that communicating on Zoom calls for clear and audible communication so all participants can hear clearly.
Forget being lost in translation, and get connecting!
Don’t let poor communication stand in the way of how your team interacts. Using these helpful tips, you can bring strong communication to the forefront of your organization and improve your online Zoom experience.
If you need more help and advice on managing and improving the communication within your team, check out jd-pROCYCLE. As part of jd-pROCYCLE, we put systems in place to ensure that all internal operations run smoothly and enhance interdepartmental communication. Get in touch for your free consultation to find out more about what jd-pROCYCLE can do for your business.
