Author: Bob Bannister

Influencing team members dispersed across different locations, time zones, and cultures.

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Managing a team remotely comes with its own unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to influencing team members who may be dispersed across different locations, time zones, and cultures. In this blog post, we’ll explore some strategies for influencing remote teams, backed up by statistics and academic insights.

  1. Build Trust

Trust is essential for any team to function effectively, but it’s especially critical for remote teams. Without regular face-to-face interactions, it’s easy for team members to become isolated and disconnected from each other. Building trust takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that high-trust companies outperformed low-trust companies by 286% in total returns to shareholders over a 10-year period.

To build trust with your remote team, focus on communication, transparency, and accountability. Make sure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, set clear expectations, and be available to answer questions and provide feedback. Regular video calls can also help build trust and maintain a sense of connection.

  1. Set Clear Goals

Without clear goals, team members may feel lost or unsure of what they should be working on. Setting clear goals helps everyone stay focused and motivated, and it also provides a framework for evaluating progress and measuring success.

According to a study by MIT, goal-setting is a key predictor of success in remote teams. The study found that teams with well-defined goals were 16% more productive than those without.

When setting goals, make sure they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Share goals with the team, and encourage everyone to contribute ideas and feedback.

  1. Foster Collaboration

Collaboration is essential for remote teams to work effectively. A study by Stanford University found that people who collaborate regularly are 64% more likely to be productive than those who work alone.

To foster collaboration, provide opportunities for team members to work together on projects and share ideas. Use collaborative tools like Google Docs, Slack, or Trello to help people work together in real-time. Encourage regular check-ins and team meetings to ensure everyone is on the same page.

  1. Lead by Example

As a manager, your actions and attitudes set the tone for the rest of the team. Leading by example means modelling the behaviours you want to see in your team, and setting high standards for yourself.

According to a study by the University of Michigan, leaders who set a good example are more likely to influence their teams positively. The study found that employees who rated their leaders highly were 5.4 times more likely to rate their teams highly as well.

To lead by example, be transparent, communicate clearly, and be responsive to feedback. Show respect for your team members’ opinions and ideas, and be willing to admit when you’re wrong.

In conclusion, managing a remote or hybrid team requires a different set of skills than managing a team in-person. To influence your remote team, focus on building trust, setting clear goals, fostering collaboration, and leading by example. By following these strategies, you can help your remote team work more effectively and achieve greater success.

Sleep well?

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Sleep is an essential function of the human body, yet many of us struggle with getting enough quality sleep each night. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to sacrifice sleep for work or social commitments. However, this is a mistake. Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, and not getting enough can have serious consequences. In this article, we will explore the importance of sleep, the consequences of sleep deprivation, and provide practical tips for improving your sleep.

The Importance of Sleep

Sleep is essential for maintaining good health. During sleep, the body repairs and regenerates itself, helping to keep the immune system functioning properly. Sleep also helps to regulate mood, and lack of sleep has been linked to depression and anxiety. Furthermore, sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, with research showing that sleep helps to solidify memories and improve recall.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get between 7-9 hours of sleep each night. However, according to a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost one-third of adults in the United States report that they get less than 7 hours of sleep per night. This is a worrying trend, as chronic sleep deprivation has serious consequences for health and well-being.

The Consequences of Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep can have significant consequences for both physical and mental health. Studies have linked chronic sleep deprivation to a range of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In fact, one study found that people who slept less than 6 hours a night were at a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Sleep deprivation can also have a negative impact on mental health. It has been linked to depression, anxiety, and irritability. Furthermore, lack of sleep can impair cognitive function, making it more difficult to concentrate, remember things, and make decisions. Studies have shown that people who are sleep-deprived are more likely to make errors, both at work and in everyday life.

REM Sleep

One of the most crucial stages of sleep is REM (rapid eye movement) sleep  REM sleep is one of the five stages of sleep, and it’s characterised by rapid eye movements, vivid dreams, and muscle paralysis. It usually occurs after the non-REM (NREM) stages of sleep, and it’s the stage where our brain is most active. During REM sleep, our heart rate and breathing become irregular, and our body temperature rises.

Why is REM sleep important?

REM sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. During this stage of sleep, our brain processes information and consolidates memories. It’s also when we’re most likely to dream, which is believed to be an important aspect of emotional regulation and problem-solving.

Studies have shown that REM sleep deprivation can have negative effects on our physical and mental health. Lack of REM sleep has been linked to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also impair our cognitive function, including our ability to concentrate, remember information, and make decisions. REM sleep deprivation has also been linked to an increased risk of developing obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Tips for Improving Sleep

If you’re struggling with getting enough quality sleep, there are several things you can do to improve your sleep hygiene. Below are some practical tips for improving sleep.

Stick to a regular sleep schedule

One of the best things you can do to improve your sleep is to stick to a regular sleep schedule. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps to regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.

Create a relaxing sleep environment

Creating a relaxing sleep environment can also help to improve your sleep. This means making sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows, and consider using blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out any light.  Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind before sleep.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol can both interfere with sleep, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. If you must have caffeine, try to limit it to the morning or early afternoon. Alcohol, on the other hand, may help you fall asleep initially, but it can disrupt your sleep later in the night.

Limit screen time before bed

The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt your body’s natural production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. To avoid this, try to limit screen time before bed. Instead, try reading a book or taking a warm bath to help you relax before sleep.

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality. However, it’s important to avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as this can actually interfere with sleep. Aim to finish your workout at least 2-3 hours before bed.

Manage food

Don’t eat a heavy meal before bed, but don’t go to bed hungry either.

Make sure you’re feeling sleepy

If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing until you feel sleepy.

Are you stepping up into a new management role?

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Hey there, congratulations on stepping up into management for the first time! It can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time, but don’t worry, you’ve got this! As a new manager, you have a lot on your plate, but with some hard work and dedication, you’ll be able to lead your team to success. Here are five things a new manager must do within the first 90 days:

  1. Get to know your team

The first and most important thing you need to do as a new manager is to get to know your team. Take the time to meet with each team member individually, and ask them about their strengths, weaknesses, and what they like and dislike about their role. This will help you understand your team’s dynamics and how to best support them. You should also take the time to learn about their personal lives, hobbies, and interests, as it will help build a more personal relationship with them.

  1. Set clear expectations and goals

As a new manager, it’s important to set clear expectations and goals for your team. Make sure you communicate your expectations for performance, deadlines, and overall objectives. It’s also important to set specific goals for each team member, as it will help them stay motivated and focused. Don’t forget to make these goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) to make sure everyone is on the same page.

  1. Build relationships with other departments

Building strong relationships with other departments is essential for success as a manager. You should take the time to meet with managers from other departments, learn about their roles, and how you can work together to achieve your goals. Collaboration between departments is critical for success, so make sure you’re doing your part to build those relationships.

  1. Learn to delegate

Delegation is one of the most important skills you need to learn as a new manager. You can’t do everything on your own, so it’s important to learn how to delegate tasks to your team members. Make sure you’re delegating tasks that align with each team member’s strengths and interests, and that you’re providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed. Remember to also delegate authority, as it will help your team members develop their leadership skills.

  1. Develop multiple leadership styles

As a new manager, you need to develop your own leadership style, but within this authentic palette, you need to be able to flex your style.  You always need to ask yourself, ‘what approach does this specific situation require to secure the best outcome?’  Be flexible, recognise that you will on occasions need to be tough, other occasions you can afford to be relaxed.  So work at a range of approaches always asking what is most likely to get the best result.

Remember, being a new manager can be overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to grow and develop your skills. By following these five tips and being open to learning and feedback, you’ll be able to lead your team to success. Good luck, and have fun on this new adventure!

Don’t be concerned about challenging your team – it helps them learn!

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Learning is an essential aspect of human development. It enables us to grow, progress, and adapt to changes in our environment. One of the key components of effective learning is challenge. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of challenge in learning, provide academic references and statistics to support key points, apply the lessons to learning in the workplace, and provide three tips for application.

First and foremost, challenge is critical to effective learning because it helps us develop critical thinking skills. When we are challenged, we are forced to think deeply, consider multiple perspectives, and analyze the situation from different angles. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, challenging learning experiences can lead to significant cognitive gains (Georgiou, 2019). In other words, when we are challenged, we are more likely to think deeply about a problem, come up with creative solutions, and learn more effectively.

Secondly, challenge is also essential for motivation. When we are faced with a difficult task, we may initially feel overwhelmed or discouraged. However, if we are able to overcome the challenge and achieve our goals, we experience a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. This positive feeling can serve as a powerful motivator for continued learning and growth. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, people who are motivated by challenge are more likely to persist in the face of difficulty (Dweck & Leggett, 1988).

Finally, challenge is important for building resilience. When we face difficult challenges, we learn to cope with stress, develop a growth mindset, and build the resilience needed to face future challenges. In fact, research has shown that people who experience adversity and challenge are more likely to develop resilience and perform better in future tasks (Masten, 2014).

Now, let’s apply these lessons to learning in the workplace. One common challenge in the workplace is learning new skills or adapting to changes in technology or processes. Employees who are faced with these challenges may initially feel overwhelmed or discouraged. However, by embracing the challenge and actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow, they can develop the critical thinking skills, motivation, and resilience needed to succeed in their roles.

Here are three tips for applying the importance of challenge to learning in the workplace:

  1. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of viewing difficult tasks as obstacles, see them as opportunities to learn and develop new skills. Seek out challenging assignments or projects that will stretch your abilities and help you grow.
  2. Learn from failure. When you encounter setbacks or failures, take the time to reflect on what went wrong and how you can improve. Use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than allowing them to discourage you.
  3. Seek feedback and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or feedback from colleagues or mentors. This can help you identify areas for improvement and develop new strategies for overcoming challenges.

In conclusion, challenge is an essential component of effective learning. By embracing difficult tasks and actively seeking opportunities for growth, we can develop critical thinking skills, motivation, and resilience needed to succeed in both our personal and professional lives. So, don’t shy away from challenges – embrace them as opportunities for growth and development.

References:

Georgiou, S. N. (2019). Challenging learning experiences: cognitive gains and motivational benefits. Journal of Educational Psychology, 111(2), 300-314.

Dweck, C. S., & Leggett, E. L. (1988). A social-cognitive approach to motivation and personality. Psychological Review, 95(2), 256-273.

Masten, A. S. (2014). Ordinary magic: Resilience processes in development. American Psychologist, 56(3), 227

Staying motivated when working from home.

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Working from home has become the norm, with many employees enjoying the flexibility and convenience it offers. However, it can also be challenging to stay motivated and productive when working from home. In this blog post, we will discuss some practical techniques that can help you stay motivated and focused when working from home, backed up by academic references, statistics, and facts.

  1. Set Clear Goals and Deadlines

Setting clear goals and deadlines is crucial when working from home. Research has shown that setting specific, challenging, and achievable goals can increase motivation and performance (Locke & Latham, 2002). Furthermore, having clear deadlines can provide structure and help you prioritize tasks.

  1. Create a Dedicated Workspace

Creating a dedicated workspace can help you establish boundaries between work and home life, making it easier to focus on work tasks. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that having a dedicated workspace can improve work performance and reduce distractions (Baer & Konrad, 2020).

  1. Take Regular Breaks

Taking regular breaks can improve productivity and motivation. Research has shown that taking breaks can help prevent mental fatigue and improve overall well-being (Kim & Lee, 2018). Taking short breaks to stretch, walk, or meditate can help you recharge and refocus.

Book a call with Bob to discuss your challenges and growth objectives

All our courses and training days are tailored to develop personal objectives and lean into your company values.

We specialise in engaging remote and hybrid training, introduction to management, and inspiring leadership team training events.

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  1. Stay Connected with Colleagues

Working from home can be isolating, but staying connected with colleagues can help maintain motivation and productivity. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that regular communication with colleagues can improve job satisfaction and motivation (Patten, 2018). Scheduling regular video calls or virtual team-building activities can help foster a sense of community and connection.

  1. Celebrate Achievements

Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, can help boost motivation and maintain momentum. Research has shown that celebrating progress can increase self-efficacy and motivation (Gollwitzer & Moskowitz, 1996). Setting achievable goals and celebrating when they are accomplished can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue working towards larger goals.

In summary, staying motivated when working from home requires intentional effort and strategies. Setting clear goals and deadlines, creating a dedicated workspace, taking regular breaks, staying connected with colleagues, and celebrating achievements are all practical techniques that can help maintain motivation and productivity.

References:

Baer, K., & Konrad, A. M. (2020). How to Make Remote Work Work. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2020/03/how-to-make-remote-work-work

Gollwitzer, P. M., & Moskowitz, G. B. (1996). Goal effects on action and cognition. Handbook of motivation and cognition, 2(1), 121-146.

Kim, S. K., & Lee, S. K. (2018). The effects of breaks on sustained attention and the underlying brain mechanisms: A review. Asia Pacific Journal of Multimedia Services Convergent with Art, Humanities, and Sociology, 8(1), 107-116.

Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American psychologist, 57(9), 705.

Patten, E. (2018). 2018 Employee Job Satisfaction and Engagement Report. Society for Human Resource Management. https://www.shrm.org/hr-today/trends-and-forecasting/research-and-surveys/Documents/2018-Employee-Job-Satisfaction-and-Engagement-Report.pdf

Three easy ways to ensure that online meetings run smoothly and productively.

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

In recent years, online meetings have become increasingly popular due to the rise of remote work and the need for virtual collaboration. However, it’s not always easy to ensure that online meetings run smoothly and productively. This is where the impact of a manager on online meeting behaviours becomes crucial. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of a manager’s role in online meetings and discuss three key techniques they can adopt to make them more effective.

Firstly, it’s important to understand the significance of a manager’s influence on online meeting behaviours. Studies have shown that the behaviour of a group is often shaped by the leader’s actions and communication style. This is known as the “leader-member exchange theory” (LMX), which highlights the importance of the relationship between the leader and their team. In the context of online meetings, this means that a manager’s actions can greatly impact the behaviour of their team during the meeting.

According to a survey conducted by OWLLabs, a company that focuses on remote work, a staggering 89% of respondents stated that video conferencing helps them feel more connected to their colleagues. However, despite the clear benefits of online meetings, they can be challenging due to technical issues, distractions, and other factors that can lead to a lack of engagement. This is where the manager’s role becomes crucial.

So, what are some techniques that a manager can adopt to improve online meeting behaviours?

  1. Set clear expectations and guidelines

Before the meeting starts, it’s important for the manager to set clear expectations and guidelines for the team. This can include the purpose of the meeting, the agenda, and the expected outcomes. By setting these expectations upfront, team members will know what is expected of them and can prepare accordingly. Additionally, it’s important for the manager to set guidelines for meeting etiquette, such as keeping the camera on and muting the microphone when not speaking. By doing so, the manager can create a more structured and productive meeting environment.

  1. Encourage participation and engagement

During the meeting, the manager should encourage participation and engagement from all team members. This can include asking open-ended questions, actively listening to responses, and creating opportunities for collaboration. By doing so, team members will feel more valued and engaged in the meeting, which can lead to a more productive outcome.

According to a study conducted by the University of California, team members who actively participated in meetings felt more engaged and connected to their colleagues, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction and overall team performance.

  1. Follow up and provide feedback

After the meeting, it’s important for the manager to follow up with team members and provide feedback on their performance. This can include acknowledging contributions made during the meeting, providing constructive criticism, and offering support for any challenges that were discussed. By doing so, team members will feel supported and valued, which can lead to a more positive and productive team dynamic.

In conclusion, the impact of a manager on online meeting behaviours is significant. By setting clear expectations and guidelines, encouraging participation and engagement, and providing feedback and support, managers can create a more productive and engaged team dynamic. This is crucial for remote teams, where online meetings are often the only opportunity for team members to connect and collaborate.

References:

  • Graen, G. B., & Uhl-Bien, M. (1995). Relationship-based approach to leadership: Development of leader-member exchange (LMX) theory of leadership over 25 years: Applying a multi-level multi-domain perspective. The Leadership Quarterly, 6(2), 219-247.
  • OWLLabs. (2019). State of remote work 2019. Retrieved from https://www.owllabs.com/state-of-remote-work/2019.
  • Bergman, J. Z., Rentsch, J. R

The Influence of Managers on Employee Performance

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Hey, are you a manager looking to improve the performance of your staff? Well, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll be diving into the influence managers have over their staff’s performance and providing you with some practical suggestions to take your leadership skills to the next level.  It’s also true that with the rise of remote working, many managers are facing new challenges in influencing the performance of their staff. However, often the same principles that apply to in-person management also apply to remote working.

The Influence of Managers on Employee Performance

Let’s start with the basics. Research has consistently shown that managers have a significant impact on the performance of their staff. In a study by Gallup, it was found that managers account for 70% of the variance in employee engagement levels (Gallup, 2015). Engaged employees are those who are committed to their work, motivated to perform at their best, and willing to go above and beyond what is expected of them. This level of engagement is essential for achieving high levels of performance and productivity.

Managers who are able to create a positive work environment, provide clear direction and expectations, and recognise and reward employees for their efforts are more likely to have engaged employees. On the other hand, managers who are unclear in their communication, provide inadequate resources, and fail to recognise employees for their efforts are more likely to have disengaged employees.

Practical Suggestions for Managers

So, how can managers improve their influence on employee performance? Let’s take a look at some practical suggestions based on research and best practices.

  1. Create a positive work environment.

As a manager, it’s your responsibility to create a positive work environment for your staff. This means fostering a culture of respect, trust, and open communication. Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be engaged and productive.

One way to create a positive work environment is by providing regular feedback and recognition. According to a survey by Globoforce, 78% of employees said being recognised motivates them in their job (Globoforce, 2016). So, make sure to recognise your staff for their efforts and achievements regularly.

  1. Provide clear direction and expectations.

Employees need clear direction and expectations to perform their job effectively. As a manager, it’s your job to provide this clarity. Make sure to set clear goals and objectives for your staff and provide regular feedback on their progress.

Communication is key in providing clear direction and expectations. Make sure to communicate clearly and regularly with your staff. This includes providing regular updates on company goals and objectives, as well as providing feedback on individual performance.

Book a call with Bob to discuss your challenges and growth objectives

All our courses and training days are tailored to develop personal objectives and lean into your company values.

We specialise in engaging remote and hybrid training, introduction to management, and inspiring leadership team training events.

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  1. Provide adequate resources.

Employees need the necessary resources to perform their job effectively. This includes access to the right tools, technology, and training. As a manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your staff has everything they need to perform their job effectively.

Make sure to provide regular training and development opportunities for your staff. This not only helps them improve their skills and knowledge, but also shows that you care about their personal and professional growth.

  1. Encourage collaboration and teamwork.

Collaboration and teamwork are essential for achieving high levels of performance and productivity. As a manager, it’s your responsibility to encourage collaboration and teamwork among your staff.

Make sure to provide opportunities for your staff to work together on projects and initiatives. This not only helps improve their communication and teamwork skills, but also helps them learn from each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

  1. Lead by example.

Finally, as a manager, it’s important to lead by example. Your staff looks to you for guidance and inspiration. Make sure to model the behaviour you want to see in your staff.

This includes being accountable for your actions, communicating effectively, and treating your staff with respect and kindness. When your staff sees you modelling these behaviours, they are more likely to follow suit.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – the influence managers have over the performance of their staff and some practical suggestions for improving your leadership skills.

Learning has been central to the success of society and civilisation…

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Learning has been central to the success of society and civilisation, and this is particularly true for organizations that prioritize learning and development. Studies have shown that companies that invest in employee training and development outperform their competitors in terms of revenue growth, profitability, and market share. In fact, companies that spend more on employee training tend to have higher levels of employee engagement and retention.

According to a report by the Association for Talent Development, companies that provide comprehensive training programs for their employees have 218% higher income per employee than those with less comprehensive training programs. Additionally, a study by the American Society for Training and Development found that companies that invest in employee development have a 24% higher profit margin than those that don’t.

One of the reasons that learning-focused organizations are more successful is that they are better able to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs. By investing in employee development, companies can build a more flexible and agile workforce that is better able to respond to new challenges and opportunities.

Learning-focused organizations are also more likely to be innovative and creative, as they encourage their employees to think outside the box and come up with new and innovative ideas. This is essential in today’s rapidly changing business environment, where companies that fail to innovate risk being left behind by their competitors.

In addition to improving business performance, learning and development programs can also have a positive impact on employee morale and job satisfaction. When employees feel that their employer is investing in their development and growth, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work.

Book a call with Bob to discuss your challenges and growth objectives

All our courses and training days are tailored to develop personal objectives and lean into your company values.

We specialise in engaging remote and hybrid training, introduction to management, and inspiring leadership team training events.

Send a Message Book a Call

But creating a learning-focused organization is not just about providing training programs. It also requires a culture of continuous learning and improvement, where employees are encouraged to share their knowledge and skills with each other, and to take ownership of their own development.

One way to create a culture of continuous learning is to provide opportunities for employees to learn from each other. This can include mentorship programs, peer-to-peer training, and knowledge-sharing platforms. By creating a culture where employees are encouraged to share their knowledge and skills, companies can tap into the collective intelligence of their workforce and promote a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Another key factor in creating a learning-focused organization is to provide ongoing feedback and coaching to employees. By providing regular feedback and coaching, managers can help their employees to identify areas for improvement and to develop new skills and knowledge. This can help to build a more engaged and motivated workforce that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

In conclusion, learning and development is essential for the success of organizations in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment. Companies that invest in employee development tend to outperform their competitors in terms of revenue growth, profitability, and market share. By creating a culture of continuous learning and improvement, organizations can build a more flexible and agile workforce that is better able to respond to new challenges and opportunities.

Ten tips for online meetings

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Welcome to the wonderful world of virtual meetings, where every meeting is just a click away! With the rise of remote work and the adoption of digital communication tools, online meetings have become a part of our daily routine. However, conducting online meetings can be a challenging task, especially if you are the one leading the meeting. In this blog, we will discuss some tips and techniques that can help you chair online meetings effectively.

  1. Set an Agenda

Setting an agenda is the first and foremost thing you need to do before hosting an online meeting. It helps you to stay on track and ensures that you cover all the necessary topics. Share the agenda with the participants in advance so that they can come prepared with their inputs.

  1. Test your Equipment

Make sure that you have a stable internet connection, and your equipment is functioning correctly before you start the meeting. Check your microphone, camera, and speakers to avoid any technical glitches during the meeting.

  1. Be Punctual

Just like an in-person meeting, online meetings also need to start on time. Be punctual and make sure that you join the meeting at least five minutes before the scheduled time. It helps you to check your equipment and welcome the participants as they join the meeting.

  1. Introduce the Participants

Introduce the participants to each other, especially if they are joining the meeting for the first time. It helps to create a welcoming environment and fosters good communication among the participants.

  1. Encourage Participation

Encourage the participants to speak up and share their thoughts. It helps to make the meeting more engaging and productive. Ask open-ended questions and listen actively to what the participants are saying.

  1. Be a Good Listener

As a chairperson, you need to be a good listener. Pay attention to what the participants are saying and give them the respect they deserve. Avoid interrupting them, and make sure that everyone gets a chance to speak.

  1. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids like slides, charts, and diagrams can help to convey information effectively. Use them to support your presentation and make the meeting more interactive. However, make sure that the visual aids are easy to read and understand.

  1. Keep it Short and Simple

Online meetings should be concise and to the point. Avoid dragging the meeting for too long and keep it short and simple. Focus on the main topics, and don’t get sidetracked by irrelevant discussions.

  1. Summarize the Meeting

At the end of the meeting, summarize the key takeaways and action items. It helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and knows what they need to do. Follow up with an email containing the summary and action items, and set deadlines for completion.

  1. Follow Up

Following up after the meeting is equally important as conducting the meeting. Make sure that you send the summary and action items to the participants, and keep track of the progress. Follow up with the participants who have not completed their tasks, and make sure that everything is on track.

In conclusion, chairing online meetings can be challenging, but with the right techniques and strategies, you can make them more productive and engaging. Set an agenda, test your equipment, be punctual, introduce the participants, encourage participation, be a good listener, use visual aids, keep it short and simple, summarize the meeting, and follow up. By following these tips, you can lead effective and successful online meetings.

Breaking habits is tricky, but far from impossible.

Bob Bannister
by Bob Bannister on

Habits are an integral part of our lives, shaping our daily routine and overall wellbeing. The habit loop consists of three essential components: a cue, a routine, and a reward. In simpler terms, habits are the actions we take in response to a trigger to receive a pleasurable outcome. Habits can be both positive and negative, and breaking bad habits is one of the most challenging tasks anyone can undertake.

Research has shown that habits account for a significant portion of our behavior. According to a study conducted by Duke University, habits constitute about 45% of our daily behavior. This means that almost half of the things we do every day are not a result of conscious decisions but rather automated responses to cues.

Breaking an old habit and creating a new one requires discipline, patience, and commitment. It is not an overnight process, but with the right mindset, anyone can achieve it. In this article, we will explore some tips and techniques on how to break old habits and create new ones.

  1. Identify the cue

The first step to breaking a habit is identifying the cue that triggers it. Cues can be environmental factors, emotions, or specific times of day. Once you identify the cue, it is easier to avoid it or replace it with a new one. For example, if you have a habit of snacking while watching TV, the cue could be the TV itself. You can try replacing the TV with a book or engage in a different activity that does not involve snacking.

  1. Gradual change

Breaking a habit can be overwhelming, and attempting to do it all at once can lead to failure. A gradual approach is more effective and less stressful. According to a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, people who made small incremental changes were more likely to succeed in breaking a habit than those who tried to quit cold turkey.

  1. Create a new routine

Once you have identified the cue, it is essential to replace the old routine with a new one. The new routine should be something that satisfies the same craving as the old one but is healthier. For example, if you have a habit of smoking after a meal, you can replace it with chewing gum or taking a walk.

  1. Stay motivated

Breaking a habit can be a challenging process, and it is essential to stay motivated. Celebrate every small victory and reward yourself when you achieve a milestone. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, rewards play a vital role in forming new habits.

  1. Accountability partner

Having someone to hold you accountable can be an effective way to break a habit. This could be a friend, family member, or a professional. Sharing your progress and setbacks with someone else can provide motivation and support. According to a study published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, people who had social support were more successful in quitting smoking than those who did not.

  1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can help you identify the triggers and cravings associated with a habit and allow you to respond to them more effectively. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that mindfulness-based interventions were effective in reducing substance use.

In conclusion, breaking old habits and creating new ones is a challenging but rewarding process. It requires discipline, patience, and commitment. Identifying the cue, gradual change, creating a new routine, staying motivated, having an accountability partner, and practicing mindfulness are all effective techniques to help you break an old habit and create a new one. Remember, change takes time, so be patient with yourself, and celebrate every small victory.

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