How to Create Relationships and Have Meaningful Conversations Virtually

By: Marigrace Gorospe

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual platforms have become the mainstay of communication for many pharmaceutical companies and health professionals. For roles like Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) who rely on strong connections with scientific experts (SEs), virtual platforms can be challenging. While these platforms are convenient and accessible, establishing and maintaining virtual interpersonal connections can be less effective compared to in-person. Nevertheless, virtual platforms are here to stay. Despite not being able to achieve the same experience as speaking to someone face-to-face, here are some tips and tricks to help come close to it:

1.??????Visuals are everything

Humans are highly visual creatures and rely on visual cues to communicate. Therefore, emphasizing your personal presentation is key when communicating body language. Some tips to highlight your visual presence are to create a simple background and illuminate your face. To do so, clean up the surrounding area seen on camera or pick a simple background on your platform. Doing so will make it less distracting for your audience. Additionally, have a light source such as a lamp or window aligned in front of you. The light will highlight your face, making it easier for your audience to read your body language. More importantly, it demonstrates your professionalism and helps with first impressions as an MSL.

2.??????Keep it short and sweet

Long virtual conversations can be exhausting so keep meetings short and focused when possible. If further discussion is required, book another meeting rather than rushing or going over time. Extending meetings past the allotted time can cause irritation and frustration. This is especially true for clinicians who have busy schedules. Not only is this unprofessional, but it can take away from meaningful conversation and negatively affect the relationship. Prior to starting the meeting, you should review the agenda items and confirm the time available. It is important to stick to the agenda, as this allows your audience to anticipate what will be discussed and to stay engaged for the duration of the meeting. Ultimately, be flexible, follow the SE’s cues and stay on time.

3.??????Be present and engaged

Being present demonstrates that you are interested and care about the conversation. To help stay focused, avoid distractions that can compromise your attention. For example, turn off your self view when possible as this still allows your audience to see you. Looking at yourself during the virtual meeting can be both distracting and exhausting at the same time. Moreover, nothing is worse than having a rich discussion until a technical difficulty occurs. Ensure that your internet and technology are working perfectly prior to the meeting and have a back up plan. Being prepared and organized allow for more time towards meaningful, rich conversation with your SEs.

Overall, subtle nuances when using virtual platforms are key to changing the way we engage with others online. As an MSL, engaging SEs and navigating through virtual platforms can be a daunting and sometimes frustrating task, but they are tools that can be used to our advantage. Humans are naturally social beings and rely on both visual and audio cues to communicate. These tips, therefore, not only help create an environment to succeed in the online world, but they provide an opportunity to become vulnerable and truly connect with others just as we might in person.?

Author:?Marigrace Gorospe is in her final year of the Doctor of Pharmacy program at the University of Toronto.

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