The Art of Virtual Interaction in a Remote Environment
/Maybe you’re an extrovert feeling trapped in your home.
Maybe you’re learning how to work remotely and struggling to adjust to this new environment.
Or maybe, you feel like lately, your personal and professional life are bleeding together - what even are “weekends” anymore?
Regardless, I know that right now, this feels new.
The digital world and field of technology are about to make a huge shift. And if you’re paying attention, then you’ve probably noticed that all the cards are on the table for everyone to see.
We now know:
The reality behind every meeting that could have been an email.
The endless potential of livestream and recorded sessions.
The undeniable possibility behind remote work for many individuals and industries.
Now is the time to educate yourself. Adapt and create a new normal. I know that probably sounds scary, and that’s why I’m here to offer help. So first, let's start with the basics.
Picking Your Platform: When to Zoom & When to WebEx
Security
“A third class action lawsuit was filed against Zoom in California, citing the three most significant security issues raised by researchers: Facebook data-sharing, the company's admittedly incomplete end-to-end encryption, and the vulnerability which allows malicious actors to access users' webcams.” - CNET
Basically, Zoom currently contains security vulnerabilities. And they weren’t necessarily following the best practices for data encryption.
WebEx has personal room locking 10 minutes after the meeting starts, and has historically relied on password protection to ensure the most secure experience for meeting attendees.
Long story short? If I was planning to discuss or transfer any sensitive information via virtual meeting, I would err on the side of caution.
UX - User Experience
There’s no denying the learning curve associated with downloading, installing and navigating a new app or software. As someone who has used both platforms, I would have to say that Zoom’s UI is much easier to interpret than WebEx. Zoom is simple, user-friendly, and essentially a one-touch process. Overall, this makes for a much smoother user experience for those who are new to remote interactions.
Plus, Zoom lets you use and create your own virtual backgrounds...
Image courtesy of Pocket-lint
Restrictions:
Webex’s free plan allows users to host meetings of any length, whereas Zoom caps meeting times to 40 minutes per meeting.
“Why the cap,” you ask?
This all has to do with cost. If you’re looking to level up, here’s how the pricing breaks down:
Webex
$13.50 per host per month for up to 50 participants.
$18 per host per month for 100 participants.
$27 per host per month for 200 participants.
Zoom
For $15, your meeting limit is increased to 24 hours + additional features and controls.
The size of your organization/business doesn’t matter: it’s $20 per host per month.
I don’t think I need to do the math for you on this one.
At the End of the Day
If you’re brand new to virtual meetings and just using it to casually catch up with friends/family, use Zoom.
If you’re looking for a secure platform with a bit more functionality that can easily be interpreted by your tech-savvy staff, use WebEx.
And if you’re someone who was using WebEx before COVID: WebEx will continue to be your go-to. Except for when you are invited to a virtual happy hour, birthday party, girls night, freelance meeting, or livestream class - then, you’ll probably have to use Zoom. So be flexible. And adapt as needed. This is weird for all of us.
Easing the Virtual Anxiety: Set Yourself Up for Success
If you’re not used to virtual interactions, then your first time on camera will probably feel a little uncomfortable or maybe even weird. As will your second, third, and so on… if you aren’t using these WFH (work from home) hacks.
Set a Schedule
As your personal and professional spaces collide, it’s important to maintain a structured starting and stopping point for each work day. When working from home, it’s both tempting and easy to “always be on,” which can and will create issues in your usual work-life balance. Be sure you carve out time to step away and take care of your personal life.
Alternatively, a schedule will seriously help with your productivity if you’re easily distracted. All it takes is one “opportunity” to step away and get lost in chores and/or family. Make sure you/your family are well aware of your working hours in an effort to keep distractions to a minimum, and to also ensure there is mutual respect around office hours and free time.
While you’re at it, create a schedule for the kids too.
Get Dressed
I mean it. Get out of your pajamas. It can have a serious effect on your productivity.
You don’t need to dress super formal every day, but the simple act of changing your clothes can make you feel more motivated and therefore more productive.
Do NOT - I repeat, DO NOT let your pajamas win.
And if you are the type to usually wear makeup, then be sure to include this in your morning routine as well. You don’t need to go all out, but making the effort will make a difference. I promise.
Know Your Space
Check your lighting. Where and what is your main light source?
If you have a window or lots of natural lighting behind you, you will appear more like a dark shadowy figure. When moving closer and further from the camera, the lighting will adjust, but this doesn’t create the best virtual experience for anyone you’re chatting with.
And when it comes to lighting from above? Just avoid this at all costs. You’ll look like you’re in an interrogation room, it’ll create deep shadows on your face - overall, it’s just not flattering.
If your light source is in front of you, you appear as you would in-person. Frontal lighting will typically illuminate your face evenly, sans shadows.
Designate a Workspace
Create a specific place to concentrate on your work. This alone will effortlessly nurture your work-life balance.
Amazon has a great desk selection, as does Walmart, Target and Wayfair.
Still worried about distractions?
Pro Tip #1: Make it difficult to get distracted. Set clear boundaries and expectations that define when you’re on the clock and when you’re not.
Pro Tip #2: Keep your phone face down or log out of your social media accounts. Be intentional with your time.
Pro Tip #3: If things get chaotic while you’re attending a virtual meeting, mute your line and/or turn off your camera so you can assess the situation and reinforce workspace respect.
Pro Tip #4: Remember, your colleagues and/or clients will understand if life happens behind you. They’re in “the same boat.”
Stay Active
Look for online fitness routines, attend livestream sessions, ride your bike, or create a walking/running schedule - and incorporate this into your WFH schedule.
Have a regular lunch break each day? Use your new remote environment to take advantage of a midday workout. That way when you log off, the rest of the day is yours.
BONUS: No need for a gym bag, lockers or public showers.
Lastly: Log-In Early
One of the beautiful things about WFH is the commute, or total lack thereof. Take advantage of this by giving yourself time to get dressed and get ready, or to knock some things off of your to-do list (like an online fitness class).
Still Feeling Uncertain?
Since 2014, I’ve worked for an organization that offers flexibility in workspace location; therefore the virtual side effects of COVID-19 have been less shocking to me than most. Like I said, I’m here to help.
Want to learn more about virtual platforms or tips & tricks for working from home?