Charles Morgan 4 Ways To Instantly Improve Videoconferences | What To Do When Your Leaders Aren’t Leading | Is Your

Plus: How true leaders communicate during times of crisis

If you’ve ever had to endure a truly terrible videoconference (and really, who among us hasn’t over the past few weeks?), you know that more often than not, the quality of a call has nothing to do with tools or tech and everything to do with meeting management. Thankfully, there are four techniques you can try today to instantly improve your virtual meetings.

The technique I’ll be putting to the test this week? When speaking, briefly pause between every three sentences. Even if your colleagues have their cameras turned on, it can be challenging to interpret body language and anticipate questions during a videoconference. Instead of speaking in run-on sentences, giving teammates with questions one of two options—interrupt, or wait and risk forgetting what they were going to ask—make a conscious effort to regularly pause for reactions.

And here’s more on everything you need to know about working from home during the coronavirus pandemic.

For more on working and leading from home, check out our guide, updated daily.

The Telecommuter's Toolkit

Don’t think you’ll be heading back to the office any time soon? Take the time to outfit your remote workspace. Even the simplest of touches (think, a small plant or a framed photograph) can go a long way toward keeping you grounded and focused.

If you’re less than pleased with your company’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey by Glassdoor, 28% of American workers say their employer hasn’t reacted to COVID-19 concerns at all. In the absence of corporate leadership, take these six steps to stay afloat. No. 1: Take care of yourself.

When millions of Americans are living in a constant state of stress, exacerbated by isolation, it’s never been more important that leaders demonstrate humanity. Seek to normalize the anxiety your employees may be feeling by sharing how you’re managing your own mental health. And remember: Vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength.

The Break Room

Anyone else getting a little stir-crazy right about now? From Audible to Scholastic and Peloton to Showtime, these businesses are offering services free of charge to help you pass the time.