Getting Real in Virtual Space:
Engagement for Remote and Hybrid Teams
When your team is remote, connection doesn't happen by accident
Virtual work didn't go away; it just got quieter.
ABOUT THIS SESSION
Cameras are off, multitasking is easy, and the hallway chats that used to build trust don't happen on their own. That makes engagement more important than ever when your team is remote.
Jon Colby has spent years performing and teaching to audiences on the other side of a screen. In this session, he shares the tricks performers use to create energy and connection when you can't share a room, and helps leaders build them into everyday remote work.
Two ways to book it
Keynote for leaders: How to keep a remote or hybrid team connected, engaged, and trusting each other week to week.
Workshop for trainers and hosts: Hands-on techniques for running virtual trainings, webinars, and events that hold attention from start to finish.
Who It's For
Remote and hybrid team leaders, L&D and training teams, webinar hosts, and virtual event planners.
What Your Team Walks Away With
TAKEAWAYS
Create real connection on remote teams without forced fun
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Get cameras on and voices in with low-pressure participation techniques
02
Run hybrid meetings where remote people aren't second-class attendees
03
Design virtual sessions that beat the multitasking urge
04
Use performer techniques for energy, pacing, and presence on camera
05
Yonason Goldson
Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Professional Speaker
"When our scheduled virtual speaker had to cancel at the last minute, our association turned to Jon Colby. He agreed to fill in on ONE HOUR'S NOTICE! And not only did he hit it out of the park; he hit it out of the solar system. Our members were entertained, engaged, entranced, and enlightened by what was universally received as one of the best presentations ever."
Questions About This Session
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Build connection on purpose. Remote teams lose the hallway moments that build trust, so leaders need short, regular habits that replace them, like quick check-ins and structured ways for every voice to be heard.
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Give people something to do every few minutes: respond, react, pair up, or contribute in the chat. Performers know a screen audience drifts fast, and this session shares the techniques that keep them with you.
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Design it so remote participants aren't second-class attendees. That means calling on remote people first, using shared tools everyone can see, and giving both groups equal ways to contribute.
Pairs Well With
"Yes, and…" Leadership Through Improv
The rules of improv are the rules of great leadership
From Passive Listener to Active Participant
Design engagement into your event so the energy holds all day
Your Meetings Suck
How to run meetings people actually want to attend (and remember)