Learning points on how to hold meetings ONLINE
Following the ‘new normal’ of holding fellowships, we (RC Milimani) went out to test the system yesterday in readiness for our Wednesday fellowship. Below are learning points for all of us we adjust to the evolving situation:
1. User Issues – Only 13 out of 44 Rotarians managed to log in. Some were genuinely engaged but others kept fumbling with the tech without success. This mostly affected Senior Rotarians who are not at ease with Tech.
Action: Have a plan in place to upskill Rotarians with Basic Skills in using Zoom as a meeting platform.
2. Access Gadgets – Some Rotarians thought they were tech-savvy enough and logged in on their phones. Others were on their desktops without headphones. This brought interference as there was unnecessary noise.
Action: Communicate clearly which infrastructure is needed to have ease of access for a smooth fellowship.
3. Over-excitement – There was a general over-excitement in seeing each other online and interacting from the comfort of their residences. This presented a challenge of controlling the discussion and sometimes it would go off-tangent to the point as the host I had to keep on muting some.
Action: Look for a way to tone-down the excitement and let everyone focus.
4. Note-taking – In light of the fact not many logged, there needs to be a dedicated rapporteur. Do not assume the Secretary would be present to record as it happens.
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5. SAA & Happy Dollars -If you don’t have a Club Paybill No, this is the moment it will be needed as this new normal does not exonerate you from certain financial obligations.
6. Platform Costs – The free access to Zoom allows you only 40 mins. You need to upgrade to Pro-option that costs $14.99 in order to have better access (Thank Me Later 😁)
Some Happy Rotary Moments
a). We had spouses/ kids popping their noses in to experience Rotary.
b). The Invite Link was shared on Saturday, we had some random guests logging which was quite encouraging as this could present an opportunity to grow Rotary.
I have shared that for our learning as we do not know how this situation will evolve and hence we need to tie up any hiccups and keep-the-balls in the air for the longest it will take.
Thank you very much for your indulgence and feel free to share experience on your side.
Article by: Ozem Muriuki – President, Rotary Club of Milimani
