Leading Successful Video Calls with Multiple People

After several conversations with my business colleagues, it inspired me to share some insights on effectively managing multiple individuals on a video call.

I believe we all understand video calls are here to stay as part of every day business. That’s why mastering the art of virtual communication is essential. After years managing people and vendors across multiple time zones, here are some strategies I’ve found invaluable for successfully leading a group video call:

1️⃣ Set Clear Objectives: Begin each call with a clear agenda and defined goals. This ensures everyone knows what to expect and what needs to be accomplished.

2️⃣ Utilize Technology: Familiarize yourself with the features of your video conferencing platform. Features like muting participants, screen sharing, and breakout rooms can streamline communication and engagement.

3️⃣ Encourage Participation: Actively engage all participants by asking for input, posing questions, and encouraging discussion. This fosters a collaborative atmosphere and ensures everyone feels valued. Encourage those who would present be ready with their files opened and ready to share.

4️⃣ Manage Speaking Time: Be mindful of speaking time and ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute. Politely intervene if one person dominates the conversation, and encourage quieter individuals to share their thoughts.

5️⃣ Facilitate Smooth Transitions: Keep the conversation flowing smoothly by transitioning between topics seamlessly. Summarize key points and guide the discussion towards achieving the established objectives.

6️⃣ Maintain Focus: Minimize distractions by setting expectations for participants to remain attentive and avoid multitasking during the call. This helps maximize productivity and engagement.

7️⃣ Follow Up: After the call, send a summary of key takeaways, action items, and any follow-up tasks. This ensures accountability and keeps everyone aligned.

Remember, mastering the art of managing multiple individuals on a video call takes practice and adaptability. By implementing these strategies, you can lead productive and engaging virtual meetings that drive results!