Zoom
Pav Ponnoosami blogged satirically this week that, during the lockdown, ‘The bedroom has become the boardroom’. As we find ourselves staring at each other on screen, we often see a backdrop, a glimpse of a person’s home life, an insight into the person-beyond-the-role. I find myself intrigued by the different things I see-hear that lay behind: books on the shelf; flowers on the desk; photos on the wall; a child that stumbles in unexpectedly, asking for attention. They all add context, meaning.
Yet is an online relationship a real relationship? I’ve certainly never spent so much time with clients and colleagues on Zoom as I have done during this past few weeks. Is it real? The question itself begs at least two underlying questions: what constitutes an authentic relationship, and what do we mean by real? We could of course apply the same two questions to evaluate encounters and interactions between people in the real world; that is, the world that we think of as real, not just the virtual one.
So, some thoughts. Can an online conversation allow us to know and understand each other better? Yes, although I will know someone better if I see and experience them acting-interacting in a range of different situations and relationships. Can it enable effective task communication? Yes, if both-all parties have access to suitable and stable technologies. Can it enable practical teamwork to achieve a common purpose? Yes, if all have equal access. Can it build friendship or love? What do you think?
Bupa, Aviva and Cigna Recognised Counsellor - Practices at The Eaves, Godalming and Nicholson House, Weybridge
4 年Thought provoking article as ever Nick. I find myself thinking about relationships on LinkedIn and whether they are real. I guess they have some reality depending on the way that people are communicating with one another. We may get a sense of what people are like always filtered through our personal perspectives. This could be right or not. Of course LinkedIn being a professional platform we are particularly aware of how we express ourselves.
Deputy Director of Organisational Development
4 年Great article Nick and thanks for the mention. It’s such an interesting time. My partner now refers to her ‘Zoom face’ which needs to be in situ prior to any online meeting. The challenge of remote social connectivity is bringing out so many different and new values and behaviours. Love the pics!
Bupa, Aviva and Cigna Recognised Counsellor - Practices at The Eaves, Godalming and Nicholson House, Weybridge
4 年I am laughing at those images - a lot - I needed that - thank you Nick