logo image

Newsletter Article

Member Benefit

Communication in a 2D World

Published Tue Feb 16 2021

Loading...

We need to face the fact that the way we do business has forever been changed, and that new forms of virtual communication will be around long after the pandemic has subsided. For one, we need to get used to the idea of going from 3D environments to 2D. In 3D spaces, it’s a lot easier to tell the energy of the room. You can tell if what you’re saying is landing, if the audience is listening, and if you’re having an impact. In a 2D space, such as a video conference, receiving that feedback is much more difficult. It’s also difficult to adjust to the stop-and-start pace of conversation. People’s attention shifts, they go on and off-camera, and people are interrupted constantly. Instead of thinking about what you want to say as if it’s a monolithic narrative, consider breaking it up into core components that can be reiterated and rephrased. Finally, consider the way body language has changed and how presence is interpreted. People with loud voices who take up a lot of space and gesticulate in communication are at a natural advantage, but the playing field is leveled when everyone occupies the same amount of space on a screen. Be intentional about your voice, your motions, and your posture to command more of a presence in the 2D world.

You've Reached ATD Member-only Content

Become an ATD member to continue

Already a member?Sign In

More from ATD

Loading...

Copyright © 2025 ATD

ASTD changed its name to ATD to meet the growing needs of a dynamic, global profession.

Terms of UsePrivacy NoticeCookie Policy