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(Photo via Getty)
In our post-pandemic, virtual, or hybrid work environment, it is super-tempting to multitask during a meeting or conference call with a lot of attendees, especially if you’re not critical to the event. Of course, if you’re not critical, I want to ask you why you’re there in the first place … but I also understand that some meetings are unavoidable, and the likely answer is that you were invited.
I am the first to admit that multitasking is a siren’s call that is extremely difficult for me to resist. There’s some kind of endorphin kick I get from being able to maximize my time despite all the studies out there that say multitasking is not actually productive. (But why does it feel so good?!?)
Now, I am not so bold as to respond to substantive emails — that’s a rookie move where you are likely to make typos and mistakes, not a good look for a legal professional. But I am the first to admit that I might skim and prioritize my inbox, organize my OneNote, or skim my LinkedIn if I have determined that whatever meeting I’m in doesn’t pertain to me. I have also been known to water my plants, transfer the laundry from washer to dryer, or get on the treadmill to get a few more steps in — all on mute, of course.
If you’re like me and can’t help it, here are a few tips that I’ve picked up.
Exercise Good Judgment And Choose Wisely
Before multitasking, be aware of your audience and the topic of the meeting and be sure that you’re really not critical. Professional reputation and branding is important so you wouldn’t want to risk appearing absent around your client or your leadership when you’re supposed to be engaged and responsive.
Gotta Be Listening … Some
You do need to stay engaged enough to respond if you get called on. This is why I wouldn’t recommend that your second task is something that requires focus. You do not want to risk zoning out and missing the question posed to you during the call while you were in deep analysis of a complex legal issue for another client.
Disclosure Can Be Your Friend
In moments of need, such as having a sick baby at home or while in transit during kid pickup or just at the airport, where I have to join a call because of its urgency or importance, I like to disclose my unique situation from the beginning. Sometimes clients can’t find any time on my calendar so I will necessarily offer up “after hours,” but fully disclosing that I’ll have to start dinner or simultaneously manage the kids (aka give them a screen) until my spouse (who has a long commute) gets home. I have never asked for direct feedback, but my hope is that my clients or leadership appreciate me doing my best to show up for their needs and appreciate the honesty.
Meyling “Mey” Ly Ortiz is in-house at Toyota Motor North America. Her passions include mentoring, championing belonging, and a personal blog: TheMeybe.com. At home, you can find her doing her best to be a “fun” mom to a toddler and preschooler and chasing her best self on her Peloton. You can follow her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/meybe/). And you knew this was coming: her opinions are hers alone.
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