Video calls have become an essential tool for businesses, saving time and money on travel. However, they also have their downsides.
In a recent meeting, I was the remote minutes taker and the only person not physically present. I found it challenging to identify who was speaking and pick up on body language through the video call. This experience has made me wonder if video calling can ever fully replace the need for in-person meetings.
Video calls enable businesses to connect with people from anywhere, saving significant amounts of money, up to £26,000 per year, that would otherwise be spent on travel expenses. Software such as Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet are user and pocket-friendly, offer recordings, and transcription and make life much more comfortable.
Video calls also save time by eliminating the need to travel or prepare a meeting room. They are flexible and can be joined from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, they facilitate better teamwork by allowing everyone to share ideas in real time.
I find that one advantage of video meetings is that they are simpler for people taking minutes. The camera usually focuses on the person who is speaking, and since most participants are polite, it’s easy to see who is talking and avoid other conversations. As an administrator, it can be very difficult to distinguish between multiple sub-conversations, so this feature is very useful to me.
Despite their advantages, video calls can occasionally be troublesome. Poor internet connection or technical issues can disrupt meetings and frustrate attendees. How many times have you been in a meeting and mid-flow, someone drops off to reappear like magic a few seconds later?
Security is also a concern, and companies must ensure they have adequate technology and protocols in place to maintain security.
Communication can be more challenging on video calls, as body language cues can be missed, making it difficult to understand each other. Some discussions may be better suited to in-person meetings, where participants can see each other more clearly. This is certainly my main issue – I really struggle to see body language and react to this.
Video conferencing has a lot of benefits for businesses, but it also comes with some technical and people-related challenges. By leveraging the advantages and addressing the disadvantages and following some smart tips, you can optimize your video calls. However, there may be some situations where you need to meet in person. In such cases, good preparation, a clear agenda, and a thorough understanding of the desired outcomes will help you decide whether to opt for a video call or a face-to-face meeting. help you decide whether to opt for a video call or a face-to-face meeting.
