Quick Tips for our MSL new Virtual World

Quick Tips for our MSL new Virtual World

Effective Communication. Present clearly and honestly as transparency is vital to building a trusting relationship. If you are having a global discussion, avoid cross-cultural faux pas by researching cultural etiquette. Remember the 7 C’s of communication: clear, concrete, conversational, correct, constructive, concise, and complete.
Proper Technology. It is important to have the necessary tools in both software and hardware for virtual interactions such as headsets, speakers, and lighting. Multiple virtual platforms may be required as certain institutions have limits such as no camera or speaker with their institutional computer (Microsoft Teams, GoToWebinar, Zoom). Also, have a good setup for correct postures such as an ergonomic chair for a neutral posture creating 90-degree angles at the waist and knees.
Take Initiative. If you identify a gap or a process that needs to be improved, share this information with your manager or director. Provide the problem and a solution, show your skills and abilities. Want to improve a skill, see what your Human Resources department offers for professional growth and development.
Seek Positive Feedback. Talk with your coworkers, mentor, or manager, and ask for positive feedback. With high performing teams, positive feedback outweighs negative by nearly 6 to 1 – focus on the positive according to Harvard Business Review. Encourage team members to coach one another when preparing for presentations or important meetings.
Listen Actively. Give others your full attention and avoid multitasking during meetings. This shows respect for others. Remember to mute your computer or phone on group meetings unless you are speaking and turn off the ringer on your cell phone.
Improve Body Language. This is what people remember: 55% visual, 38% vocal, and 7% verbal content. People are mostly visual so ensure you come across the computer as authentic, have open posturing without arms crossed, sit still, and remember to smile 😊.
Foster Trust. Relationship building is an ongoing process. Before each meeting, share a professional or personal news item. Ask “how are you?” and be sincere. This helps to overcome isolation while building relationships.
Take Breaks. It is okay to be away from your computer and phone for breaks. Take a walk, go outside for fresh air, exercise, talk with a family member or friend on facetime. These actions help prevent burnout.
The Power of Thank You. Appreciation matters. Gratitude has been linked to improved physical and mental health. Remember to end your messages with a thank you.
Stay Positive. Energize one another with positivity. Smile. Listen to music. Write in a journal. Meditate. Improve your attitude with gratitude and share it with others!

Author:

Delinda Bane Melvin, MSN, APRN, FNP, CDECS

Delinda is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Education Care Specialist with biological and pharmaceutical expertise spanning over twenty years. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, from the University of South Alabama, Mobile, graduating summa cum laude and receiving the prestigious Community Service Award from the College of Nursing. She received her Master of Science degree in Nursing Leadership and Management from Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota and she received her Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She currently holds a Florida Nurse Practitioner license. Delinda has been with Fresenius Kabi in Medical Affairs for nearly three years as the Senior Manager, Medical Science Liaison, Parenteral Nutrition Division. Previously, she was with Novo Nordisk for nearly 17 years. Delinda was recently selected as MSL Manager of the Year 2020 by the MSL Society. Additionally, Delinda has earned four National Awards including the Education Excellence Award in 2017 and multiple Vision Awards during her pharmaceutical career for leadership, collaboration, and teamwork. Her clinical experience includes critical care and trauma at Baptist Health System, Pensacola, Florida, and preceptorships in the therapeutic area of Endocrinology at the International Diabetes Center at Park Nicollet in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida. She is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, and the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. She was recently appointed to the Membership Committee for a three-year term and is a member of the Nursing Section Forum and Pediatric Section with ASPEN. She currently resides in Panama City, Florida, Emerald Isle Farm with her husband, Stephen, their AKC golden retrievers, and AQHA/PTHA World Champion quarter horses. She is the founder and VP of Emerald Coast Equine Rescue, a Florida nonprofit corporation, and is a volunteer with Emerald Coast Golden Retriever Rescue. Delinda can be contacted directly at 850.381.1163, delinda.bane-melvin@fresenius-kabi.com or on LinkedIn.