How to Not Zone Out on Zoom
Do you struggle to stay focused during a meeting? Have you caught yourself spacing-out and thinking about your weekend plans rather than what’s going on behind the screen in front of you? It’s easy to get distracted when staring into a screen for every meeting.
The bad news? Your colleagues can tell when you aren’t really “there” and this isn’t good for you or your job. It’s important to find ways to be present and show your team you prioritize them. Wondering how you can improve your presence in virtual meetings? Here are a few suggestions.
1) Take a break and walk away from your computer.
Make sure you give yourself time to step away from the computer between meetings. The “Meetings” feature in Google Calendar and “Calendar Options” in Outlook allow you to easily schedule meetings for 50 minutes instead of an hour or 25 minutes instead of 30. Opt for these shorter times whenever you can to give yourself time to get some water, walk around and look at something other than your screen.
2) Get rid of distractions.
It’s way too easy to pick up your phone and get side-tracked by anything and everything when meetings are virtual. Minimize interruptions by keeping your phone in another room or on silent. This shows your team you respect their time. Also make sure you aren’t creating additional distractions. A T.V. or music in the background can make someone on your team lose focus!
3) Breathe.
It may sound simple, but consciously taking three deep breaths will bring you into the present moment. If you find yourself itching to check your phone or looking around the room, take three deep breaths instead and notice your surroundings. Use the deep breath as a re-set, and refocus your mind.
Taking some or all of these easy actions will transform your virtual meetings - leading not just you to be more present, but also helping your team to focus on the work at hand. If you’d like more tips on how to make your virtual meetings shine, book a 20 minute discovery call with me here.