What’s So Good About Zoom?
As we “commemorate” the end of the first year of Covid 19, we’re finally seeing mass vaccinations, partial re-openings and a dim light at the end of the tunnel that we’re really hoping isn’t another oncoming train. But, despite this progress, we still need to be cautious. Yes, we’re still wearing masks and spending lots of time on Zoom calls.
Tired of daily Zooming you say? Longing for those bygone days of in-person meetings? As a people person, I’m right there with you. But as sick as we all are of virtual meetings, there’s actually a lot to be said for Zoom, and not all of it is negative. While many are predicting a rush back to in-person contact, those virtual meetings have proven themselves practical in ways that can’t be denied and won’t be ignored going forward.
For one thing, surviving this pandemic would have been much more challenging and disruptive without the technology that allows for the kind of clear-and-seamless virtual get togethers that Zoom has been easily accommodating for the past year.
Then there are the money-saving business advantages that come with remote meetings. Having seen how easy and effective virtual meeting platforms can be, companies are more comfortable with the technology and will be less likely to fly executives from one coast to another for a two-hour meeting.
But for me, it’s the personal stuff that distinguishes the Zoom experience. It’s been fun to watch those unexpected walk-ons from unbearably cute toddlers take the stuffing out of overly serious executive meetings. And meeting with people sitting in their home offices, you learn a lot of interesting things about clients you might never have known.
A recent virtual sit-down with a new client took an interesting turn when the client noticed the guitars on stands behind me in my office. It turns out this business-suited, successful executive was also a road-worn veteran of an ‘80s-vintage, heavy metal hair band. Who would have guessed? Needless to say, the two of us bonded in a way that was deeper than the business at hand.
Having said all that, I can’t wait to enjoy actual face-to-face time with people again. Like most folks, I miss that human connection. But now we all know. When you can’t be there, you can always take the virtual route. You might be surprised and even delighted by what you discover there!
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