Introverts. We exist. We may be a bit quieter but we have just as much to offer in an organisational setting. So, in this blog, we’ll go through the top 5 virtual training tools that training platforms offer introverts.
So, where to begin? Well, for those of us who are introverts, the COVID-19 pandemic was both a blessing and a curse.
On the one hand, our physical social interactions plummeted; we were asked to stay in our homes (which, for the most part, we LOVE doing) and we sat quietly watching TV as opposed to going out to eat with friends.
However, as remote work becomes a permanent fixture in our lives, this new introverted lifestyle we have adopted has a caveat. From a work perspective, we are more connected than ever, and this increased interconnectivity will be here to stay. The constant evolution of video calls, Microsoft Teams channels and hyper-connectivity means we are more ‘online’ than ever.
Happily for introverts everywhere, there are more ways to communicate during virtual training sessions than just speaking.
Our top 5 virtual training tools for introverts
Here are our 5 virtual training tools for introverts:
- Annotation tools
- Polling
- Breakout groups
- Chat box
- Emojis/emoticons/emotes
1. Annotation tools
Ah yes, annotation tools. Do you remember those lessons where the teacher would give out the coveted chalk or whiteboard markers? Well, this is the virtual equivalent.
Such tools offer participants the opportunity to jot down ideas, collaborate and be creative with one another, without the pressure of needing to verbally engage with colleagues and fellow participants.
Most virtual training platforms offer annotation tools in some capacity, which the most popular being Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
Here is a highly collaborative example from one of our MS Teams meetings.
2. Polling
We’ve talked about it many times before, but polling can be a great training tool. It allows trainers to get snapshot answers out of their participants in a quick and easy manner.
During virtual training workshops, it’s key to check in with participants, particularly with introverted attendees, who might not be as willing to vocalise their understanding or lack thereof. So, a poll is a quick and simple way for everyone in the virtual workshop to weigh in with their thoughts and understanding thus far.
3. Breakout groups
Sometimes when faced with a large group of people during virtual training, it can be even harder to introverts to speak up and make themselves heard, especially if there are some particularly vocal extroverts in the workshop. These could lead to the quieter introverts not feeling as engaged in the content.
However, most virtual training platforms now offer the ability to separate larger groups into smaller, more intimate breakout groups. We recently got very excited that Microsoft Teams brought the Breakout Group function in. Watch the video here.
By making the number of voices to contend with less, introverts often find breakout groups easier to deal with and to engage with, thus allowing them to get involved in discussions. It is one of the most used virtual training tools, and we recommend that you make the most of them too.
4. Chat box
Perhaps one of the best things to come out of virtual training platform training tools is the chat box.
We are all very used to instant messenger by now. Indeed, for many an introvert that is our preferred way of communicating, as opposed to by phone or face to face. So, having the option of communicating with the wider group via chat box can be incredibly freeing for many of us. It allows us to add insight and valuable inputs into the virtual training workshop, without needing to interrupt, or fight to have our voices heard.
The chat box brings a platform to those who may struggle to put forward their thoughts and opinions during a busy session, allowing all participants an equal chance to share.
5. Emojis/Emoticons/Emotes
We all know about Facebook’s ability to “Like” something, right? The simple click of the thumbs up button that can signify anything from agreement, to a sign that the post has been seen and read, and even to mark attendance to a family gathering or event.
So, it comes as no surprise that many virtual training platforms have adopted a similar approach.
By including ‘emoji’ in their list of training tools, participants are given a way of communicating with other participants and the trainer without using words. For example, on Microsoft Teams, there is a whole host of emoji that can be used, including a check, cross, hot beverage and go faster stripes.
This is great for introverts who don’t want to interrupt the whole session in order to steal a bathroom break for example. By simply clicking on their chosen emoji, they can let their fellow participants and trainer know what is going on. Likewise, instead of using the polls, trainers can use the training tools to check understanding; “Click the check if you are ready to continue.”
Where you are an introvert or whether you know some, these training tools can make virtual training infinitely better for a variety of reasons. For trainers, they are a steadfast way or increasing engagement and learning transfer for participants, and in turn, give the participants a better experience.
Want to learn how to use your platforms more effectively? Why not enquire about our Train the trainer programme? We can help you become confident and competent across all areas of virtual training.
