How can you actively listen and regulate emotions in a virtual meeting?

1 What is active listening?

Active listening is the process of paying attention to what the speaker is saying, showing interest and empathy, and providing feedback. Active listening helps you to understand the message, the emotions, and the needs of the speaker, and to respond appropriately. Active listening also builds trust and rapport, and reduces misunderstandings and conflicts.

2 What is emotional regulation?

Emotional regulation is the ability to manage your emotions in different situations, especially when they are intense or negative. Emotional regulation helps you to cope with stress, frustration, anger, or anxiety, and to express your emotions in a constructive way. Emotional regulation also prevents you from reacting impulsively or aggressively, and from harming your relationships or reputation.

3 How to actively listen in a virtual meeting?

To actively listen in a virtual meeting, you need to use both verbal and non-verbal cues to demonstrate your attention and engagement. For example, you should use your camera and look at the speaker to show that you are focused and interested. Additionally, you should use your microphone to ask open-ended questions, paraphrase, or summarize what the speaker said to indicate that you are following and clarifying the message. Furthermore, using your tone and voice to express agreement, appreciation, or empathy shows that you are supportive and respectful. Finally, using your gestures and facial expressions such as nodding, smiling, or frowning implies that you are reacting and feeling the emotions.

4 How to regulate emotions in a virtual meeting?

To regulate emotions in a virtual meeting, you need to use both cognitive and behavioral strategies to calm yourself and communicate effectively. Recognizing and labeling your emotions can help you understand them better, while reframing your thoughts can help you see the situation from a different perspective. Relaxing your body and breathing deeply can lower your physiological arousal, while responding appropriately and choosing your words carefully can help you express yourself in a respectful and assertive way. If needed, taking a break can also be beneficial in avoiding escalating the conflict or hurting the other person.

5 Why are these skills important for virtual meetings?

Active listening and emotional regulation are essential for virtual meetings to overcome the barriers and challenges of online communication. By applying these skills, you can improve your understanding and collaboration with your team members and clients, enhance your influence and persuasion with stakeholders and partners, resolve conflicts and problems with colleagues and supervisors, boost your performance and productivity with tasks and projects, as well as strengthen relationships and reputation with your network and community.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?