1. Should a child or pet make an appearance (or simply add a gentle yet unmissable snoring) during a video call, welcome their presence without apology. These are our playing conditions right now! Introduce them. Let everyone say hi to them and engage with them. This builds stronger relationships between us as we enter each other’s worlds and appreciate each other’s working conditions.
2. When your manager or colleague asks you how you are, be honest with yourself and with them. Allow yourself a moment to explore how you're feeling and another moment to understand why. Try not to suppress negative feelings which will drive them deeper. You're more likely to be able to let uncomfortable or negative feelings pass if you tap into them & acknowledge them. Talking is often a good release and makes others feel more comfortable in being equally as open.
3. Nothing gets the blood pumping quite like seeing the small image of yourself in the bottom right hand corner of your screen whilst on a Teams video conference and realising what mug you’re gripping in your hand for all to see. Practice mindfulness when choosing your "work mug'. It might inadvertently take centre stage during your next video conference otherwise!
... and bonus tip:
For those of you with long hair, remember that when it covers the thin straps of your top, you may appear to be naked on your video call.
You're welcome.