Virtual platforms are a great tool to bring people together. And at least initially, virtual backgrounds were fun. Many of us used virtual backgrounds to redecorate our homes, try out new styles and show off some of our personal interests. But the trend now seems to be shifting. My experience is that people are now increasingly using real backgrounds for virtual meetings.  Both virtual and actual backgrounds are acceptable during online meetings. However, there are at least four important things that work-from-home warriors should consider when choosing to share their real backgrounds given that many of us are still working from home offices.

While traditionally seen solely as a private problem, domestic violence has the potential to significantly impact workplace safety and productivity, and as the line of work-home-life balance continues to blur for many during COVID-19, companies should be on top of their domestic violence response plans to aid and support employees. 

In a new survey, more than 70 percent of companies’ primary business continuity concern is further disruption from a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.