Zoom Meeting Tips

Training Tips with Zoom

After you read the following tips, here is a link to some advanced tips offered by GroveHQ.

Tip #1: It’s important to have one person handle tech issues and another to facilitate the training.

Tip #2: Send out info. on how to test their system ahead of time. (Be sure everyone knows how to access your virtual classroom and their systems are compatible before the training event. This could include be to schedule a meeting before the meeting or simply provide written instructions and ask them to log-in days before their session for trouble-shooting. Examples of troubleshooting may include issues with broadband, video working, audio working, etc.)

Tip #3: Send out webinar expectations in advance.  (If this is the first classroom-based webinar, tell people.  This way when bugs happen, the participants will be more patient.)

Tip #4: Send nudge reminders. (Telling people when to show up and what to expect are is essential.  Telling them once isn’t enough.)

Tip #5: Plan and practice your interactions.  (Role play with someone in advance to prepare for  any questions that may be posed by participants.)

Tip #6: Ask questions but wait for responses.  (Responses on a webinar take almost a third longer than in a traditional class.  People have to re-frame your question in their mind, then type out a response.  This takes longer than just shouting out a response in a classroom.)

Tip #7: Use the chat feature. (You will need to react to what people are writing and address questions.  Encourage the chat room.  When you ask a question, be sure to say, “Write your responses in the chat.” )

Tip #8: Use the tools.  Have the participants use the annotation tools, open up a whiteboard, use the breakout rooms, etc. This is critical to ensuring engagement and interaction occur.

Tip #9: Less is more.  (Limit text with PowerPoint.  Seeing lots of bullets and text on a screen will make people zone out or be distracted.)

Tip #10: Use the webcam. (Attire should be appropriate for occasion. Be sure participants can view the presentation slides as well as see the facilitator.)

Tip #11: Take breaks. (People will need to stretch and a break from viewing the screen.  Offer a 10-15 break every 60-75 minutes.)

Tip #12: Record the session.  (There will always be someone who misses the virtual class.  This affords those who miss or those who want to review the information again another opportunity to do so.)

Tip #13: Survey the results.  (Ask brutally honest questions. Ask for feedback on an ongoing basis.)

Tip #14: Provide a communication piece. (After the session, follow up with participants and provide them with extra resources to connect the learning.)

The information contained on this page was provided by Shannon Tipton of Learning Rebels, LLC with consent.