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STEVE ADUBATO ’ S

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

with co-host Mary Gamba
Sunday 10:00am

Engaging in a Virtual Meeting

While it is important to know how to lead virtual meetings , the best leaders also must understand how to be an active and engaged participant in virtual meetings , which does not come naturally to most people . Consider the following the next time you are participating in a virtual meeting :
Be sure people can hear you . Be sure the microphone is close enough to pick up your voice .
Stay muted . This will avoid background noise that can be distracting .
Make eye contact . Look into the camera , not at the screen , while you are talking . Looking at participants while you are talking can cause your eyes to dart around .
Be polite . Hold off on eating and multitasking . Remember , everyone can see you , so choose your actions accordingly .
Don ’ t fidget . Tapping your pencil , playing with your hair , looking anywhere but at the screen can all distract other participants .
Dress to impress . If you are home , it is tempting to simply stay in your pajamas or a sweatshirt , but you should treat the meeting as you would an in-person meeting .
Be on time . Jump on a few minutes early to ensure the technology is working correctly .
Get present . Be present . Stay present . Avoid distractions such as checking your text messages or e-mail .
Get engaged and stay engaged . Force yourself to listen on a deeper level .
Steve Adubato , PhD , is the author of five books including his latest , " Lessons in Leadership ". He is an Emmy ® Award-winning anchor with programs airing on Thirteen / WNET ( PBS ) and NJTV ( PBS ) who has appeared on CNN , FOX News and NBC ' s Today Show . Steve Adubato ' s " Lessons in Leadership " video podcast with co-host Mary Gamba airs Sundays at 10:00 a . m . on News 12 +. For more information visit www . Stand-Deliver . com