Charles Morgan How To Use Zoom Securely | Top Tips For Maintaining Productivity While Remote | Your Guide To Refocu

Plus: Finance leaders plan to permanently shift significant numbers of employees to work remotely

It didn’t take more than a few days for Zoom to become as synonymous with videoconferencing as Kleenex has become with blowing one’s nose. By the end of March, the platform had reached 200 million daily users, up 1,900% from its previous best of 10 million. But with that surge came scrutiny, and issues were found with the company’s privacy and security practices. Since then, Zoom has been trying to make its service more secure, but if you’re still not convinced, there are a few alternatives you can try. And if you’re willing to ride it out with Zoom, heed the advice of cybersecurity experts.

No matter what videoconferencing software you may be using, remember this: there’s no free lunch, so if you’re not paying a fee, you may be doing so with your data. “Assume what happens in Zoom does not stay in Zoom,” says Mark Ostrowski, cybersecurity expert at Check Point. “Control your own privacy as you do with all online tools.”

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

Coronavirus may have changed the way you work, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get things done. First, accept your new normal: The more energy you spend fighting what’s out of your control, the less you’ll have for the parts of your life that you can affect. Then, try these tips.

Managers, how is your team holding up? Even if your organization hasn’t been affected by layoffs, your employees have likely been experiencing more stress than usual. Take these steps to ensure they feel supported. No. 1: Lead with facts, not fear.

If you’re living in a constant state of stress it can be hard to think clearly. In these moments, it’s important to take a purposeful pause. By intentionally bringing your attention to the sensations of your breath, you can begin to refocus your racing mind. Here’s how to do just that.

The Break Room

Running out of ways to keep the kids occupied? From remote field trips to virtual story times, these 15 resources are sure to please. And did we mention they’re 100% free?