Tips for Attorneys on Running Successful Virtual Meetings

Online meetings pretty much have filled up our calendars. Whether you’ve returned to the office or are still working remotely I can bet you have at least one scheduled this week. Running a virtual meeting is completely different than in-person- it’s harder to gain people’s attention and even harder to keep it. Have you been in a meeting or run a meeting where your questions go unanswered? Like you’re speaking out into the void and there isn’t even an echo. Been there. 

It can be even more difficult meeting with clients virtually. Protecting your firm and your client’s privacy is so important, not to mention maintaining that sense of professionalism that is a necessity for attorneys. That’s why we have created a list of tips to help you stay successful while social distancing.  

1. Require Passwords

By requiring passwords you’re helping to control who has access to your meeting. This will help prevent anyone from just “wandering” in. You can also set extra precautions by having a “waiting room” and inviting individuals one at a time. These small steps can ensure that you are not interrupted during an important call, whether with your client, a co-counsel, or even a judge. 

2. Don’t Allow Recording

Make sure to turn off recording capabilities for all participants unless you have previously agreed to it. It’s important to make sure to disable this ability for everyone, having someone accidently login to a private meeting is one thing but having someone record it could be bad for everyone involved. Best bet is to assume the worst and disable access for all meetings. 

3. Dress Appropriately

This is a good rule for everyone, not just attorneys. Dressing professionally, even if it’s just from the waist up, sends the right message. Not only will others on the call see you as someone to listen to but you will feel ready. Getting in the right headspace for any meeting is important, so be sure to dress for work don’t just change from pajamas to sweatpants. 

4. Be Aware of your Surroundings

Virtual meetings should be treated the same as a physical one. Don’t meet with your client in a loud, public place or in a room full of people. If you are working from home and live with kids, a spouse, animals, etc. you could find yourself in a tough spot when looking for a good place to take a virtual meeting. Places like Engage make it easy for attorneys to find a space where they can meet safely, in person or virtually. 

This is a strange time and the only way to get yourself and your firm through this is to be flexible and work smarter. At Engage, we understand that at the moment you may not need a physical office space and that’s why we also offer virtual memberships. So, you won’t have to worry about missing a check in the mail, finding a space to meet with a client (in- person or not), or where to print. We also allow our members to upgrade, so you may not need a space now but what about in 6 months? 

We want to help your firm succeed- so call us about our virtual memberships and follow the tips above so you don’t miss a beat no matter what the outside world looks like. 

Engage Workspace for Lawyers is an office space for lawyers built by lawyers. Unlike other coworking spaces, Engage charges a flat monthly rate for access to a full suite of resources and limits membership to a community of lawyers. If you are looking for law office space where you can focus on your practice and be surrounded by great colleagues, please contact us or book a tour.

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