#340: The Zoom Nod

My sister Jaime recently bought a typewriter and mentioned how one of the special things she's noticed about it is that while she's writing, she can stay more focused and present with the words in front of her because unlike a computer, there aren't a bunch of other tabs or responsibilities or notifications that take her eyes away from what she is currently working on. With so many reminders of to-dos that pop up on a computer screen when working on one task or while in communication with another individual via zoom, exhibiting nonverbal cues while in that conversation goes a long way in letting the listener know I am present and actively listening on my end. I appreciate Sasha's blog below as it sheds light on the importance of even just a simple nod. His post reminded me of Joe Esposito's Greatest Hits on Listening, which coincidentally he wrote almost exactly 5 years ago today, where he also mentions the importance of physical posture for both the sharer and the listener.  (Link to Joe's piece) 

- Amanda

The Zoom Nod

Zoom is here to stay, an integral part of our work lives and work culture.

I’m a big fan for lots of reasons: gone are the days of faceless phone calls, and our work norms have finally shifted, making it professionally acceptable to ditch the logistics of unnecessary travel for in-person meetings.

But maintaining a sense of personal connection on a Zoom call is harder than it appears. The people not speaking are too easily distracted by other things on their screens. Subtle (and not-so-subtle) shifts in their attention can make the speaker feel like they are talking to a screen, or to no one at all.

An easy habit that I take on to avoid this disconnect? I remember to nod on Zoom calls.

This small visual cue does two things: it communicates to the speaker a sense of connection and affirmation; and it creates more engagement for myself, because I can’t nod at the right moments if I'm not paying attention.

Of course this is just one of the many ways to be an active listener, all of which are good practice both in person and on Zoom.

It’s an easy place for myself to start.

The post The Zoom Nod appeared first on Sasha Dichter's Blog.