How to build relationships through virtual meetings

I think we’ve all realized the pros and cons of virtual meetings over the last several years, and there is one thing on which we can all probably agree: while virtual meetings are more efficient, it’s more difficult to build make personal connections virtually than it is in person. So, I thought I’d offer five simple ideas that will help anyone build more meaningful relationships through virtual meetings.

1. Use your real background.

I learned this from Vector Firm’s Gannon Switzer and think it’s brilliant. Many people use fake backgrounds to enhance their presentation, where they appear to be in billion-dollar oceanside homes or upscale offices. Some just blur their background because they don’t want people to see their office. I was on a Teams call last week in which three people had the same background (it was the one in an artsy-looking office full of windows in downtown San Francisco).

While these ideas might make your more visually pleasing, I think these people are losing opportunities to share their authenticity and conversation starters. For example, Gannon always has a different book positioned on a shelf just over his left shoulder. This gives people a chance to ask him about it. I have a photo of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams, and an assortment of my daughter’s art from pre-school behind me. Sure, we’d look better on the Amalfi Coast, but would our audience get to know anything about us?

2. Ask “Are you ready for … ?”

Just like when meeting in person, ask the other people in the meeting “Are you ready for …?” You can fill in the blank with anything. Are you ready for … Halloween, warmer weather, the Super Bowl, etc.? After asking the question, observe how they answer, and this will tell you whether they’re ready to socialize or get down to business. Then, you’ll be able to manage the virtual meeting in a way suited for your audience. This idea can radically change how people perceive you – especially how task–oriented, analytical people perceive you.

3. Text, call, or mail stuff.

For some people, they’ve had virtual meeting relationships for years with people they’ve never met in person. After a year or so, they forget that they’re talking with real people – you just seem to be someone that pops on their computers every now and then. To counter this phenomenon, try to communicate in as many other ways as appropriate. Give them a call – from a phone without a link or webcam. Send them a text. Mail them a gift card. Try to communicate in other ways in addition to virtual calls. These different forms of communication will add context to their experience with you.

4. Tailor your waiting room. ?

When someone arrives early for a virtual meeting, tailor your virtual meeting application to show them something interesting about you. I love the idea of posting a personal bio with photos. For example, include things like hobbies, where you grew up, family status, photos of vacations, kids, spouse, etc.

You can also use this space to impress your audience and gain credibility before the call starts. For example, I’ll sometimes post a video of me speaking in front of an audience of 600 people that was professionally recorded by my client at their global event.

5. One-to-one chat.?

During virtual meetings, even if you’re the host, try to reach out to people personally via chat. Let them know that you appreciated their comment, or ask them for input on a topic, or just let them know that you like their real background!