How do you handle people’s kids showing up on video meetings? Screaming, kicking, hamming it up, (wasting time.) Everyone else is coo-ing…I’m not a kids person. Heard a technique which is to drop off the call bc you “assume the call is over” (which seems like a great way to get fired especially if it’s a way higher up’s kids - plus it feels rather passive aggressive.) Thoughts?

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at
Highlighted IconHIGHLIGHTED

If its a higher up person, you sit patiently until you can get started again. While you may not be a kid person, based on how others are engaging, they are kid people. The person who's kid it is is 100% that kids person. You need to think if this is really the hill you want to die vs. just rolling with it.

like

ISO1… appreciate your response, but still got the headache. Nothing personal.

like

You’re a creative director, maybe take it as a way to understand human experiences other than your own? I’m not a sports person but I have listened to plenty of small talk about games and players. I’m not a reality TV person but I’ve learned more about The Bachelor on conference calls than anywhere else. I don’t like feeling that my time is wasted but we’re humans and getting good work done requires seeing each other as such.

like
Recent IconRecent

Coming from someone who has had to unexpectedly take care of a 10 month old while working full time MULTIPLE times in the past year due to covid exposures at daycare, I promise you that the parents are more upset about it than you are. Please show empathy - we’re not happy about it either.

like

I think if your kid is going nuts you just say, “hey my kid is having a meltdown, let me drop and deal with this and circle back.”

Doesnt have to be a big deal, we’re all adults.

like

Yeah I agree with this. It feels rude no matter what level you’re at.

like

I think it's bit weird that you came on here to tell us you don't like kids.

like

I think it is hysterical when people's kids run through video calls or show up. Would rather see that than have the actual meeting. Plus, I dont have and never wanted kids, so it cracks me up when someones kids are being goofy or fussy. Not my kid, so I don't care.

like

You might want to seriously consider a career where human interaction, understanding and empathy aren’t essential to your success. The world needs ditch diggers too.

likeuplifting

Seriously. The comment is horrifying. I feel like the comebacks have been a little too vanilla.

Candy Crush 🤷🏾‍♀️

like

Couple scenarios…

Someone’s kid is being disruptive and they aren’t taking the initiative to handle it or politely excuse themselves for a moment to deal with it — have a private side convo about how shit happens, you understand it’s out of their control, but to respect everyone’s time, if they could simply excuse themselves to handle the situation or reschedule the meeting that would be appreciated and no one will blame them.

If everyone is cooing at or distracted by a kid — let everyone have their moment then make a comment to the effect of, [kid] is adorable but in the interest of time/out of respect for everyone’s time/let’s use our meeting time efficiently, etc.

All that said, WFH is just gonna be like that sometimes 🤷🏻‍♀️ and as a leader, whether you like kids or not, you need to have some level empathy and understand that everyone’s situation is different. Is the work getting done as it should? Then maybe let it go.

like

Seeing as you have such strong feelings on the matter, surely you can “PM” the situation and make an amiable mention to keep everyone on task. Or is all of your fury just for this forum?

like

Exactly, SPM 1. Colleagues shoot the shit all the time in meetings and because we don’t see each other in the office anymore it’s fine. Sometimes we talk for 5-10 min about TV shows, or sports, or whatever… if it’s about Sports I simply don’t join in cause I don’t watch them. If someone’s dog or cat comes and sits on their desk I’ll say “how cute” even if I don’t really think so— I’m also not a pet person. It’s called being f-ing polite and treating others like fellow humans.

Are you upset at the situation because you don’t like the person? If so, maybe don’t blame the poor kids and thus apply this to all working parents.

Talk to the kid, get them to come up to the screen and invite them to contribute to the meeting. Turn the tables and be the highlight of their day.

Related Posts

Tips for helping kids stay on task during zoom? Our little class (9 kids) has been doing zoom circle times twice a week but I noticed they are really distracted. Also every meeting a kid leave...

like

I got laid off in January and have been trying to find a new job since. I keep making it to the phone interview and sometimes a second interview, but always get ghosted. It’s so disheartening.

I have too much experience for an internship, and I have too little to be the top choice for copywriter roles. I know I’m a good writer, I know what I’m capable of, but it’s so exhausting trying to convince people. They always like my book but it’s never enough to get the gig. What can I do?

like

Second time in my career I've seen this: we send client lengthy manuscript to review. Client says she'll need a few days, and sends us some additional stuff (research) that could be helpful (cont'd)

like

I posted here some months back about my ectopic pregnancies but today, I'm posting to tell you all to hang in there and God will do it for you. (Please don't insult me of you don't believe in God because I strongly do).
In a nut shell, we had baby #1 without trying. Started trying for #2 and over 2 years, I had 4 miscarriages and 2 ectopics. In July, my doc informed me that the only way forward was through IVF. I was tired and confused. I PRAYED! and continued trying. (The rest in the comments.)

likeuplifting

I've changed jobs every year for the past 5 years, within the same field; I haven't worked at a place I would consider spending a long time at. I've never been fired or even written up, but the job changes are reflecting as negative when looking for a new job. Any suggestions to get perspective employers to give me a chance?

like

Serious question:
Just got laid off and am getting a generous severance package. If I accept any kind of work - be it freelance or full time - will that nullify my severance. Or is that severance pay guaranteed until it runs out?

like

US added 372k jobs in June and unemployment remained at 3.6%. Layoff fears cooling down?

likefunny

So what’s the protocol on being harassed by a former employee - one that reported to you but that the company on the whole fired. For harassment, no less. This guy just can’t let it go after YEARS.

Wow had our first zoom call with the client today and 😍😍😍. Husband-me-up PE daddy 😍😍. Have you ever worked with a sexy af client?

likefunny

Guys Please Suggest- Is executive MBA programme worth it. I have 7yoe and a family person with one kid. Can’t take a career break.
I am a engineering Graduate from Tier-2 College and currently working as a Lead Business Analyst with ctc 25 LPA. Any suggestions regarding programmes/certifications which would help in my current stage are more than welcome 🙏🙂

like

hadn't worked with a female co-worker since starting this job, recently met a mindblowing amazing person who just got promoted to manager. she loves reading, any suggestions on female leadership books

likehelpful

Took my first vacation (1 week) in over a year to visit family. Was bombarded by emails from one partner asking me to complete non-time sensitive motions, which he hasn’t even bothered to review. This is my third firm in three years (first I left as I was severely underpaid, second I left for a 100k increase in salary), but this lack of respect for my boundaries has made me want to move again once I’ve completed 18 mos. Bad? They don’t do this to the other associates (all male).

like

I did what I thought was an informal info chat with a team about an opening. The team lead( Sr. Dir) called my VP who ended up calling me wondering what was happening. Why would the team lead do that? Is there benefit in asking him? Or is this a sign of his working style and what I consider low EQ.

like

A reminder to those who are stressed about your billable hours that your value is more than your pure productivity. To those stressed about relationships, relationships are hard even for non-lawyers, but you are absolutely worthy of love. It is an important reminder for all of us that you are worthy and you are valuable. Keep fighting!

like

One more day until I can see my hubby and kid. Being away for a few weeks for go-live sucks 😭. Can't wait to be home.

like

Do you say something when you see a VP making out with an intern at happy hour? 😬

likefunny

Getting in my 8th month and starting to feel sore in my groin area. I read it’s because the baby is adding pressure down there. Do you know if it’s bad to do inner thigh exercises? I do easy floor exercises to stay fit/healthy during Covid, but the soreness (feels like slight muscle pain but it’s not) is making me wonder if I should stop.

like

Is everything right with ZS, they recently cancelled the internship for freshers who were supposed to join in Jan 23.
Is there a news of layoffs in ZS too ?

like

I'm recently been laid off by Publicis Sapient. I joined as a fresher. Trained in front end and android mobile app development. Are there any openings for fresher,do help me by sharing a link?
I'm skilled in SQL,data structures, core java.
Looking for new opportunities.

like

Atlassian
are the rumours about layoffs true ?
any insider information ?

More Posts

Just put my 2 weeks in 😃

likeupliftingfunny
like

Not sure if this is the right place to ask this, but anyone down to grab coffee sometime? I currently work in Financial Services and am hoping to move into strategy in the near future

like

A woman ad in the dept is on the chopping block. She has a 1 year old kid so maybe a bit distracted. She Is good at ideating but delivers one good idea and is easily overwhelmed. She is always saying no to taking on more more and it’s getting noticed. How do I warn her, help her, keep another woman from leaving without giving away insider information.

like

I’ve been in an in-house role since the beginning of the year and just gave 2 weeks’ notice to leave for a much better paying and better titled position. The response has been very petty, to the point that I’ve been called unprofessional even after I asked the hiring attorney whether I could give longer notice at the current company’s request. Is this normal?

like

I work for 12 hrs a day and my manager says to book 4 hrs a day on the given code that too for 1 month only. And i am deployed on the same project from last 2 months. What would you do if you were in such situation. I am new to the organisation so don't know how it works

like

Hi Guys, I am looking for change in "Gurgaon", " Noida", "New Delhi" or in any northern part of india. I am having 5 years + experience in production planning and control, Supply chain planning, Data Analysis, Material Planning, SAP PP & MM, Power BI, Tableau etc. So, kindly help me by referring for any position you feel suits to my profile.
CCTC - 9.99 Lakhs/Annum
Notice Period - 90 Days (Not Negotiable)

like
like

9/22 Thread (General):

like

Hey fishes, pls help me unlock DMs. Thanks!

like

Had a timed excel assessment as part of the interview. I definitely know I made some silly mistakes; historically, how much do these tests weigh into a final decision?

like

Hello Fishes,
Is there any chance of renegotiation of offered CTC in fidelity on already accepted offer. I have joining in mid November and recently got a higher offer from another company.

Do Nagarro renegotiate on offer?

like

How much to expect for GTM Systems Manager role for taking care of Salesforce sales cloud, CPQ, PRM and New product enablement , Subscription offerings etc…manages team of 4 with - CPQ analyst, Sr BSA -2, TPM and large set of contract consultants ,,,,,location as Dallas, TX

like

Got my BISALP yesterday. All went really well and similar to other posts here nothing much is different re: recovery. One thing I would add for plus size folks is I didn’t know I would need to use a little KT tape to keep my belly up so my incisions get air. Not an issue but wanted to share for others. Feel free to ask me any questions!

like

Hello,
I’m a junior data scientist and in my current job I mostly code using Pyspark (no machine learning) so I would like to work on a side project that could leverage my profile and data science/ML skills. What project would you advice me to work on ? (it can be a kaggle project, or a classic task that you do at your job, or a paper that you read).
I’m overwhelmed by the many suggestions online and would prefer to get a suggestion directly from professionals.
PS : I’m not a beginner.

like

My SO and I have been together for 2 years. Plan to propose next year. However, I’ve been struggling with this and need advice. My SO works for an NGO that does great work, but gets paid ~60k. Contd.

San Francisco! What are your ACD and CD salaries? And your agency if you care to share.

like

Hi guys! I hope everyone is doing well! I am a senior Finance and Accounting working at a start up business management and consulting company from last 3 years in Finance and Accounting department. My skill set varies from financial analysis, projections, budgeting, bank reconciliation, reporting and everything in between. I also have an experience managing a virtual team. I am interested in applying for senior Finance Manager role at Microsoft. Can you please refer me!

like

Additional Posts in Advertising

Heard about layoffs at Digitas Boston today. Anyone have any info?

like

Would you rather live in Williamsburg or East Village?

like

Just saw a banner ad for Smirnoff. Headline: Welcome to the FUN percent. Y’all need to stop it with this nonsense.

likefunnyuplifting

Out of curiosity, what happened to all the folks that panicked and cashed out their 401k in the middle of the pandemic?

like

I just heard the word "edutainment" used 2x in a sentence. What industry slang do you hate hearing?

like

It's refreshing to see a 🏳️‍🌈 Month ad that's NOT just the product being rainbow-wrapped. What do you think about this tagline?
"A queer drink for diverse drinkers"

Post Photo
likesmartfunny

What companies have in-house agencies?
I know of Netflix, Verizon, Casper and Intel. But can anyone help me out with some other good examples?

like

Should be getting promoted to Associate soon. What can I expect as a pay bump? Making $50k + overtime currently which comes out to ~55k. Thank you!!

like

No lies detected.

Post Photo
likefunnyupliftingsmart

Who does the ad work for Ashley Madison? Is it done at an agency, in-house, or a brothel?

like

R/GA layoff updates: 20 cut in Portland today, bringing stateside count close to 100 on the year. No official statement from Bob.

like

Have a great day everyone! Things will be ok.

likeuplifting

How does one make the jump to client side? Any tips or advice? I tried recruiters but not getting responses unless they have another agency role..

like

Industry-wide layoffs tomorrow or nah?

like

If you work at a small agency in NYC, could you tell me what your monthly health insurance premiums are for families? I'm at a small agency in NYC and the health benefits for a family are almost prohibitively expensive, ~1,500/mo with a high deductible. Would love to know if we're competitive or not and if not, share that info with our HR and bosses.

like

At the moment the industry feels like roadkill. Just saying. Maybe just a bad day.

like

As a creative, what are the best kind of agencies/jobs for higher income? Im tired of the hunt for awards with low $

like

Second time in my career I've seen this: we send client lengthy manuscript to review. Client says she'll need a few days, and sends us some additional stuff (research) that could be helpful (cont'd)

like

Serious question:
Just got laid off and am getting a generous severance package. If I accept any kind of work - be it freelance or full time - will that nullify my severance. Or is that severance pay guaranteed until it runs out?

like

Technology reimbursement - who gets it and what are your buying with it this year?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal