How do you ensure active participation and feedback from remote attendees?

2 Choose the right tools

Depending on the size, format, and goals of your meeting, you may need different tools to facilitate participation and feedback. For example, you can use video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom or Teams, to see and hear each other, share screens, and use breakout rooms. You can also use online collaboration tools, such as Miro or Jamboard, to create interactive whiteboards, sticky notes, polls, or surveys. Make sure you test the tools beforehand, provide clear instructions, and check for technical issues.

3 Design engaging activities

To keep your remote attendees engaged and involved, you need to design activities that are relevant, meaningful, and fun. For example, you can start with an icebreaker or a check-in to warm up the group and build rapport. You can also use brainstorming, problem-solving, or decision-making techniques to generate ideas, solutions, or actions. You can also incorporate games, quizzes, or challenges to add some variety and excitement. Make sure you balance the time for presentation, discussion, and interaction.

4 Use different feedback methods

Feedback is essential for any meeting, as it helps you measure the progress, satisfaction, and learning of the attendees. However, getting feedback from remote attendees can be tricky, as you may not be able to read their body language, facial expressions, or tone of voice. Therefore, you need to use different feedback methods to capture their opinions, feelings, and suggestions. For example, you can use verbal feedback, such as asking open-ended questions, paraphrasing, or summarizing. You can also use non-verbal feedback, such as thumbs up or down, emojis, or hand gestures. You can also use written feedback, such as chat messages, emails, or forms.

5 Encourage participation and inclusion

One of the biggest challenges of remote meetings is ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and feel included. You may have some attendees who are more vocal, dominant, or confident, and others who are more quiet, shy, or hesitant. To encourage participation and inclusion, you need to create a safe and supportive environment where everyone can express themselves freely and respectfully. For example, you can use positive reinforcement, such as praising, acknowledging, or thanking. You can also use active listening, such as nodding, smiling, or eye contact. You can also use facilitation skills, such as inviting, prompting, or redirecting.