How to Convene

We made it! It’s time for the first-ever GIA Virtual Convening, and we are so glad you are joining us! Whether you’re a first-timer or an old-hat, this virtual way of meeting is new for all of us. Fear not, we’ve got you covered. The GIA team put together these resources to support an easier and more joyful virtual convening experience. Click on any of the links below for a recommendations, guidance, or troubleshooting tips.

And, as always, if you need us, we’re here to help. Email us at gia@giarts.org if the answer to your question is not included below.

GENERAL ETIQUETTE

• If you are eating something, turn off your camera, please. Really, no one needs to see you eat that properly gooey mac and cheese, unless you’re going to share.
• When it makes sense, please mute yourself when not talking. This is especially important if there is background noise. It can be quite distracting if those sounds of life – a juicy conversation about at-home-art class, you typing that email you forgot to send, the dog barking at that taunting squirrel, the toilet flushing! – distract the speakers, performance, etc.
• Ask questions in a chat feature vs trying to ask while a speaker is talking, unless it’s a discussion.
• Ambient noises and visuals can be distracting, try to join sessions and roundtables in a quiet space with fewer distractions.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Have a bottle of water near you, and a snack should you need it. Hydration is known to combat Zoom fatigue!
• Use the restroom before your session starts.
• Turn off email notifications to help you focus better. (And, watch The Social Dilemma if you need incentive to cancel notifications altogether.)
• Have some paper and pen ready for notes.
• Take advantage of stretch breaks! If you need some inspiration, check out this simple and stretch-filled chair yoga flow by Arianna Elizabeth.