Actively Listening: How to Stay Focused During Zoom Meetings

​Like most things, the shift to a virtual workplace meetings comes with pros and cons.
Pros: you can wear pajama pants. Cons: you’ll probably find it harder to focus. Adjusting
to virtual meetings and making sure you’re getting the most out of them takes conscious
effort and a little bit of a strategy. Here are a few tips to reduce Zoom fatigue and help
you get the most out of video calls.

​     1. Take a moment to center yourself:
It may seem extra productive to continue working right up until your zoom meeting
begins, but it’s best to give yourself a few minutes between wrapping up your work task
and starting the call to change gears and shift your attention to interacting with your
team. Take this time to mute your phone, close your email and messaging apps, go full
screen on Zoom, and prepare to devote all of your attention to the call. If needed, close
your eyes and take some deep breaths before the meeting starts.

     2. Go in with an objective:
It’s easier in a virtual environment to let your mind wander, so come prepared with a
strategy. Ask yourself if there’s one thing you could gain from this meeting, what would it
be? Go into the meeting with at least one insight you want to share and one question
you want to ask. If you’re not the one presenting, show the person who is that you are
engaged and interested in what they are saying by using active listening techniques.

     3. Err on the side of overcommunication:
Many nonverbal cues are completely lost in a virtual setup, so make it a point to engage
more than you would in a physical environment. Repeat back what others are saying to
show them you heard them and want to fully understand. Ask questions when
something is unclear - odds are someone else has the same question. If there is going
to be a distraction during your call, let your team know about it ahead of time if possible.

     4. Use a tool to keep you engaged:
It is often helpful to use a notepad or other focus tool to keep your mind focused on the
task at hand. You can jot down notes about the topic, scribble stray thoughts that come
to your mind, or draw.doodles while you listen. You can even use an item like a fidget
toy to help keep you focused. This will also give your eyes a much-appreciated break
from watching the screen.
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Happy Zoom-calling!