7 Ways to Master Professionalism in a Virtual Work World
Of course times have changed. But some things should not slip. Professionalism and care in presentation are two of them.
It feels like it’s been ages since many of us met with our co-workers in the office. Meanwhile, we’ve developed Zoom fatigue, Covid fatigue, and in general, fatigue — from everything!
In the beginning it was thrilling using the latest technology to meet virtually. Various platforms allowed us to work or play together from the comfort of the new home office we put together one busy weekend. It even worked for our Friday night virtual Happy Hours; talk about drinking at your desk!
Now the bloom is off the rose. We’ve grown tired and virtually weary, and our professionalism has slipped along with our energy levels and motivations, which has implications for your effectiveness, collaboration, your image, and your potential for valuable relationship building. So, how can we perk-up and be more professional in our virtual work world?
You can use these seven simple tips to enhance your professionalism and executive presence at work today:
1. Shower. Believe it or not, only 45% of us are taking a daily shower. You’ll look better, feel better, and be more professional. Anyone living with you will undoubtedly appreciate the effort too.
2. Dress the part. The sweats you’ve been living in? Release them to their rightful place — the weekend! Dress as if you’re in the office. Business casual is the preferred attire unless you’re meeting with a senior executive or new clients and then kicking it up to the formal business.
3. Turn on your camera. Set yourself apart and turn on your camera. Show up groomed, appropriately dressed, and ready to go. This action projects a sense of responsibility, accountability, and professionalism. Soon, others will follow, and all of those black squares will come to life. Even better, seeing you enables you to communicate more effectively. Facial expressions, your smile, your passionate gestures, these communicate so many positive things that can impact your ability to engage with peers and leaders, and cement your professional image.
4. Lose the virtual background. Virtual backgrounds are fun at first. They can be interesting icebreakers and conversation starters, but they can also be distracting. If they’re too colorful and busy, they can be disarming. Studies show that only 7.5% of people actually want to see a virtual background at work.
5. Wait your turn to talk. Virtual meetings become unbearable when it’s nothing but off-topic speak-overs. It can help keep discussions on track and productive to create a charter for how meetings will run. Use an agenda to be inclusive, keep things on schedule — and hopefully brief — and give everyone a chance to contribute. Make using “ELMO; Enough, Let’s Move On” your team’s respectful and accepted protocol.
6. Be present. Having followed the previous tips, you look great, the camera’s on, and you’re waiting patiently for your opportunity to chime into the dialogue and contribute where appropriate. Now sit back and listen. Be present. Stop multi-tasking. According to neuroscience, none of us is that great at it anyway. So, show your colleagues a little respect and pay attention. Then you can ask thoughtful, action-oriented follow up questions, which will facilitate collaboration and time and project management as well as let your valued colleagues know you are considerate, attentive, and engaged.
7. Be courteous. I was recently amazed that a very basic list of everyday etiquette practices was published. I’m all for reminders and mastering foundational skills — building blocks are important — but this seemed too rudimentary. Apparently not because guess what was number one on the list? Say please and thank you. I guess we’re so busy adapting to all of the changes we’ve experienced in the wake of the pandemic that our Kindergarten teachings are leaving us. Please don’t forget your core social graces. Be courteous. Please is definitely not a bad word. Everyone is working hard and is stressed and busy. A simple, sincere “thank you” can go a long way to improve someone’s mood, including yours.
Nothing on this list is rocket science, and that’s kind of the point. Many of us have grown lax — dare I say a bit lazy? — now that so many of us are working from home. To maintain your authority, position yourself for advancement, and work more effectively with your team, including senior leaders, you must convey a certain image. That image is rooted in professionalism.
Don’t skimp on the basics. When consistently practiced these foundational practices do influence how others perceive you, how they treat you, and what opportunities may come your way. Since we’re all working hard, why not set yourself up for success?
