Engaging change

One of the biggest changes in the working environment during 2020 is the way in which we communicate. The face-to-face opportunities are limited and although telephone conversations are useful, they don’t really engage people. 

You don’t get to see people’s reaction or facial expressions through a telephone call so the option of utilising video conferencing was a positive step in not only creating a feeling that we are in the same room but ensuring we keep in contact with each other and not feel isolated. 

It’s fair to say that prior to lockdown my knowledge of video conferencing was limited but like many things the more you use it the more familiar you become. Evolving from a participant through to being the organiser may seem a small change but requires some detailed familiarisation to ensure it runs smoothly.

Now most of us are back to work there is still a reliance on using video conferencing for many of our meetings and this is not likely to change any time soon. With this social change, it is important that businesses also adapt to these changes. 

Offering licensed training courses via video conferencing was something that a lot of us have never done before. Carrying out research, preparing strict administration procedures, getting them approved and planning the course format were some of the challenges faced by me and many others.  

You cannot replace the engagement of a full room of delegates who are interacting with each other during a training course. The animation of the trainer, the passion and the ability to influence people’s mindset is something positive trainers thrive on. Although my company is back to delivering classroom training, we are also offering the virtual option.

The virtual training has got better. It is now more interactive. My learning of how breakout rooms work has been a positive impact in trying to create some interaction between delegates. It has also been a positive for some clients who are still furloughed, working from home or maybe shielding with the thought of sharing a classroom environment not a great one. It also allows some flexibility and will cut down on any travelling time.

As I read back on these few comments, I can see there is a strong case for attending virtual training. There are some real benefits but not for one minute would I say it is better than attending classroom training. It just offers an alternative. So, don’t be apprehensive about it, as its better than you think.

For more details on our forthcoming virtual or socially distance classroom courses, please contact training@safetyhorizonsw.com