Social media is lightning fast, and oftentimes we hit send before we’ve had a chance to swallow our thoughts. When this happens, mistakes happen. Unless we go back and look at our posting right away to edit, that’s when trouble begins. No one means to be so rude unless they are a full-fledged bully, but when you don’t meet face-to-face you don’t see eye-to-eye. It’s that simple. Without body language to guide our every move, we are the blind leading the blind.
The coronavirus pandemic has changed many in-person rules, and looking good online has never been more important. Whether it’s Skype, Zoom or FaceTime, these video communication tools have been our only means of connectivity. Even though virtual chatting lacks face-to-face communication, the same rules still apply online and offline. Be polite; start and end on a positive note, etc. This is a work in progress. Practice makes perfect, and none of us get a second chance to make a first impression, especially online.
Your manners should always stay in check, even if you’re communicating virtually. Whether the video conference is business or social, be professional, efficient, and valuable.
