Make a difference by at least avoiding one of them during the next meeting.
Don’t talk about expectations.
Most of the time, people think they know the expectations of others. Experience shows that this is almost never the case. That’s why a few minutes at the beginning talking about expectations for the meeting can be time well spent.
Thinking that it’s enough to say things only once.
That would mean, conversely, that you made it perfectly clear, unambiguous and that everyone was paying attention the whole time. Again, experience shows that this is almost never the case. Especially when it comes to directions for action, invitations or “instructions”, a lot often gets lost — say it several times or write it down.
Straight to the point — without seeing or knowing how the others are doing at the moment.
A good meeting start with a check-in doesn’t take long and changes a lot. It strengthens the personal relationship and everyone has said something before. A good starting point for a successful meeting. 20 check-in ideas for a good start.
Don’t endure silence.
If you’ve asked a question, you should also give participants a chance to think about an answer — in silence. Even if it feels weird to you as the moderator. If someone is talking all the time, you can’t listen. Or not think. The good — you can learn to endure silence. Practice makes perfect.
Ask an open question and expect everyone to answer it.
This simply doesn’t work in a virtual space and leads to uncomfortable situations. As a moderator, you should provide a framework that works. E.g. address the participants specifically by name or give the question in break-out rooms.
Overcrowded PowerPoint slides, font size 12 …
… and then, best of all, tell something completely different than what is written on it, because “everyone can read for themselves”. Right, but not both at the same time. Don’t make this mistake in online meetings and rather make slides that support what you say.
Allow long presentations and monologues
What is true for you is true for all participants — long monologues and monotonous presentations don’t help anyone. Make sure speaking time is limited and people bring good presentations to the meeting.
It’s up to you.