Caregiver communication skills depend upon multiple levels of information – the expression of ideas, body position and movement, vocal pacing and tone, facial expressions, nervous tics, and more.
What happens when we’re limited to communicating two-dimensionally? Video conferencing is how many of us have been keeping in touch. Research shows that we become tired when using video platforms like Zoom and Google Hangouts.
We need more information than a talking head. And if the camera is not positioned correctly, we may not even see that! We seek greater information and are easily distracted when a child tugs on Dad’s arm to stop working or a cat climbs onto Mom’s keyboard during the video conference call.
Many times, we display unintended behaviors while video calling, such as sitting so close to the camera that our head fills the entire screen. Or because of the camera angle, what’s visible are our eyes on up to the rotating blades of the ceiling fan.
Some of our antics are roll-on-the-floor funny such as when the parrot joined a video business meeting and shared a few well-timed expletives! That’s another story. Other behaviors take our attention elsewhere. See that blingy container of catnip behind Garfunkel pictured here?
If we only knew how we came across, we might make changes… or not!
For a little enlightenment of how we may appear to others on these video calls and in the spirit of caregiver humor, enjoy these fine felines demonstrating multitasking (eating, drinking, or grooming), and more.
Which one are you?
