What do you do if the tools you're using for virtual meetings aren't effective enough?

1 Assess the problem

The first step is to identify the root cause of the problem. Is it the quality of the audio or video, the reliability of the connection, the ease of use, the functionality, the security, or something else? You can use surveys, polls, or interviews to gather feedback from your team and other participants. You can also test the tools yourself and compare them with other options. Try to quantify the impact of the problem on your team's productivity, satisfaction, and performance.

2 Explore the options

The next step is to research and evaluate the possible solutions. There are many virtual meeting tools available, each with different features, benefits, and drawbacks. You can use online reviews, ratings, testimonials, or demos to narrow down your choices. You can also ask for recommendations from your network, peers, or experts. Consider the cost, compatibility, accessibility, scalability, and support of each option. Make a list of pros and cons and rank them according to your criteria.

3 Involve your team

The third step is to involve your team in the decision-making process. As a servant leader, you value the opinions, preferences, and needs of your team members. You can invite them to test the options, share their feedback, and vote for their favorite. You can also create a pilot group or a committee to oversee the transition and implementation. By involving your team, you can increase their buy-in, engagement, and ownership of the new tool.

4 Communicate the change

The fourth step is to communicate the change clearly and effectively. You need to explain the rationale, the benefits, and the expectations of the new tool to your team and other stakeholders. You need to provide adequate training, guidance, and support to help them adapt and use the tool effectively. You need to address any questions, concerns, or resistance that may arise. You need to monitor the progress, measure the results, and celebrate the successes.

5 Seek feedback

The fifth step is to seek feedback and improvement. You need to constantly evaluate the performance, usability, and satisfaction of the new tool. You need to solicit feedback from your team and other participants, using surveys, polls, interviews, or observations. You need to identify any issues, challenges, or gaps that may occur. You need to implement solutions, adjustments, or enhancements as needed. You need to foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

6 Be flexible

The final step is to be flexible and open-minded. You need to recognize that no tool is perfect, and that technology is constantly evolving. You need to be willing to adapt, experiment, and change as the situation demands. You need to be responsive to the needs and expectations of your team and other stakeholders. You need to be humble, curious, and courageous. You need to be a servant leader who leads by example, by service, and by influence.