by Susan RoAne
These are complicated, confounding times that have altered our reality, and yet we still need to connect, to converse, to maintain and build our networks and strengthen our business and personal relationships. So as face-to-face gatherings morph into virtual meetings or mask-to-mask encounters in the ‘new abnormal,’ I offer four questions we should ask ourselves:
How do we manage to stay connected in the Age of COVID?
It’s actually easier than ever, thanks to options like Zoom, Skype, Webex, WhatsApp, and that glorious old-school phone call. Whether it’s for a team meeting, a birthday party, a work conference, or a family reunion, companies, colleagues, and cousins have embraced the technology. Sure, we may look like a scene from Hollywood Squares or the Brady Bunch, but we’re still face-to-face!
How has the process of socializing or working a room for business changed?
Until there’s a vaccine, socializing as we knew it will not be the same. While specific rules vary depending where you live, recent surges mean more and more places are closing back down and more social-distancing regulations like mandatory masks are becoming commonplace. Of course this is good news for those who felt uncomfortable dealing with what Seinfeld called “the close talkers.”
How Do We Adapt?
In How to Work a Room, I discussed in depth the importance of the initial handshake as a standard business greeting. Due to COVID, the best we can do these days is the lame elbow bump or (God forbid) annoying air hug! The Wall Street Journal actually did a good job of addressing the handshake issue. I still believe a warm smile while looking a person directly in the eye beats them all, and it’s touch-free. To make it easier for members of the deaf community who read lips, there are masks that have see-through plastic for the mouth. I’ve already ordered mine.
When and how can we expect to work a room again?
Of course, there is no easy answer. We’ll just have to wait and see. In the interim, we’ll have our meetings, launches, birthday parties, graduations, and business anniversaries online or safe-distanced outdoors. Remind yourself that this is not forever, and it will end. And in the meantime, continue to reach out, stay connected, and work whatever virtual room you find yourself in. Thank you for reading and please stay safe. You are important to me.
Known as the Mingling Maven, Susan RoAne’s presentations, interviews, and coaching are available virtually. It’s easy to find her to discuss your needs.
