And, sure- there's definitely benefits in working from home (what's better than moving that report writing session to the couch?)
But the reality is-
No one actually knows when we'll be able to work in-person with our colleagues again... or if that will happen anytime soon... or it will look like when we do.
Here's what we do know:
Even if we do 'go back', we won't be going back to how it used to be- ( and that's ok, actually. Think of how much time and stress you've saved in the car, how many more good meals you can share with family because the commute from home office to kitchen is mere minutes)
When you led a meeting- you commanded the room like a boss...
When you delivered a presentation- you dropped knowledge that made decision-makers pick up their pen to sign on the spot.
When you railed you team to action- you build camaraderie and togetherness wit just a glance and a smile.
OH! WAIT
That was back in a day... around February.
Before you were forced to work in a digital workspace where, let's face it- everything is different
Do these sound familiar:
the truth?
show me on how to show up better on screen
Meeting prospects, higher ups, or training the new team members feels super awkward without the in-person cues you rely on like subtle expressions and body language which means- none of the interpersonal skills, the energy, the subconscious traits directly translate to working online.
You can't actually remember the last time anyone saw you on a Zoom call- because "Camera off" mode spares you from hair styling, contouring, and highlighting. "Zoom Fatigue," and cringing from seeing that built-in camera 10x your chins.
Kids, pets, and spouses (LAWD love 'em) turn every work call into a fight for focus- there's always that one person who doesn't mute and even though you don't want to judge, you're starting to shrink away from any professional interaction because... what if it's you?
The casual life has inspired games like "guess who's wearing a mullet?" (business on the top, pjs on the bottom) and "what's behind the northern lights backdrop?"- and you're starting to lose that critical edge your known for.
You're worried about the impression you're making on screen but don't know how to fix it- because you don't want to be the next exec causing rumors with their up-the-nose camera angles and awkward throw pillows.
In the new "back to work"- the most important skills you can develop are your on-screen presence and dynamic personal brand if you want to be a leader in the "new normal"
Showing up strong every day, focused, in your expertise, and with grace on screen- from your living room- is the key to cracking the code to building charisma and influence, stretching your leadership, and amplifying your communication skills.
But...
For as much training, coaching, mentorship as you've had in every other area of your career-
NONE of this stuff was ever covered (for good reason, it didn't have to be!)
UNTIL Now...
