How to communicate effectively in digital teams through micro-expressions and subtle digital signals
- larisa
- Oct 8, 2024
- 17 min read
Updated: Oct 14, 2024
Chapter 1: Introducing Non-Verbal Collaboration in Digital Environments
In the digital age, online collaboration has become essential, but it comes with major challenges, particularly due to the absence of non-verbal communication, which plays a crucial role in face-to-face interactions. In the digital space, elements such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language are limited, affecting the emotional subtleties and empathetic understanding of messages.
Digital platforms, such as email, chats, and video conferencing, offer new ways to connect, but they eliminate a significant portion of non-verbal communication. In this context, technological solutions such as emojis, avatars, and virtual reality (VR) attempt to bring back some of those subtle interactions.
Although technologies like VR and AR provide opportunities to simulate non-verbal communication, they cannot completely replace physical interactions. Furthermore, cultural differences can amplify misunderstandings in digital environments, where the meanings of non-verbal communication vary from culture to culture.
Thus, ongoing research and development are necessary to enhance the effectiveness of non-verbal collaboration in digital environments, with the aim of recreating real-world communication experiences as closely as possible.
1.1. Defining Non-Verbal Collaboration in Digital Teams
Non-verbal collaboration refers to forms of communication that do not involve the use of words but significantly contribute to the transmission of messages, understanding, and cooperation among individuals. In face-to-face interactions, non-verbal elements such as facial expressions, gestures, body language, proximity, and even silence play a crucial role in how a conversation is interpreted and perceived. They add context and depth to the verbal message, influencing the emotional and cognitive perception of the participants.
In digital environments, however, non-verbal collaboration largely loses these characteristics, as interactions occur through screens and devices, which reduce or eliminate access to most of these signals. Although digital platforms allow for instant communication and collaboration among teams located at great distances, they primarily rely on text or video, which restricts access to a wide range of traditional non-verbal elements. Thus, non-verbal collaboration in digital teams is redefined through the use of visual symbols (emojis, GIFs), temporal signals (pauses in responses), interface design, and even the personalization of avatars in virtual reality platforms.
Moreover, in distributed or hybrid teams that predominantly collaborate through digital technologies, traditional non-verbal forms are replaced by indirect interactions. These may include the style and timing of responses in written messages, the use of images or graphics to express ideas, as well as the synchronization of communication during video conferences. Non-verbal collaboration, in this sense, becomes a continuous adjustment process, where participants try to supplement the lack of face-to-face communication with the new resources available in digital environments.
Although limited compared to physical interactions, non-verbal collaboration in digital environments maintains its importance in establishing a sense of trust, empathy, and cooperation among team members. Developing effective strategies for digital non-verbal communication is essential for the success of remote collaboration, especially in international or geographically distributed teams.
1.2. The Role of Non-Verbal Communication in Online Professional Interactions
In online professional environments, non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in facilitating effective and constructive interactions among colleagues, clients, and business partners. Although digital interactions often take place through screens, non-verbal elements continue to influence the perception and understanding of messages.
Enhancing Clarity and Understanding
Non-verbal communication significantly contributes to clarifying messages conveyed in the online environment. Elements such as facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice can help convey emotions and highlight the intentions of messages. For example, in a video conference, a smile or a nod can confirm understanding and acceptance of the discussed ideas, while a neutral facial expression may signal confusion or disagreement. This type of non-verbal feedback helps participants adjust discussions and clarify unclear points, thus enhancing communication efficiency.
Building Interpersonal Relationships
Professional collaboration relies heavily on interpersonal relationships and mutual trust. Non-verbal communication is essential in building and maintaining these relationships. In digital environments, where face-to-face interactions are rare, the use of non-verbal elements such as virtual eye contact and empathetic expressions can help create an emotional connection among colleagues. This connection is crucial for fostering a positive work climate and encouraging effective collaboration.
Conveying Empathy and Understanding
Empathy is a key component in professional interactions, and non-verbal communication is essential for conveying it. In video conferences or online meetings, gestures such as a slight head tilt, smiles, and facial expressions can indicate interest and a willingness to understand others' perspectives. This empathy contributes to a collaborative work environment and encourages employees to share their ideas and concerns without fear of judgment.
Adapting to Cultural Diversity
Professional environments are often characterized by cultural diversity, and non-verbal communication can influence how messages are perceived by different cultures. Being aware of the meanings of various gestures and expressions in different cultural contexts is essential to avoid misunderstandings. For example, what may be considered a gesture of approval in one culture may be interpreted as offensive in another. Thus, adapting non-verbal communication to the cultural diversity of the team is crucial for ensuring harmonious and effective collaboration.
In conclusion, non-verbal communication plays a vital role in online professional interactions, influencing the clarity of messages, building interpersonal relationships, conveying empathy, and adapting to cultural diversity. Although digital environments may limit access to traditional forms of non-verbal communication, integrating non-verbal elements adapted to the digital context is vital for the success of remote collaboration. Understanding and effectively utilizing these elements can contribute to creating a productive and collaborative work environment.
1.3. The Importance of Micro-Expressions and Subtle Signals in Virtual Environments
In the context of online communication, where interactions are often mediated by technology, micro-expressions and subtle signals become increasingly relevant. These forms of non-verbal communication, although often overlooked, play an essential role in clarifying and deepening professional interactions.
Defining Micro-Expressions and Subtle Signals
Micro-expressions are involuntary facial expressions that appear and disappear rapidly, often within fractions of a second. They reflect deep emotions and can reveal internal states such as happiness, sadness, fear, or disapproval. On the other hand, subtle signals refer to finer gestures or behaviors that can provide clues about the attitudes and intentions of interlocutors, even when the verbal message is not explicit.
Clarifying Communication
In virtual environments, where tone of voice and body language are limited or absent, micro-expressions and subtle signals become important tools for clarifying messages. For example, a micro-expression of surprise can significantly alter the understanding of an idea or proposal, helping to identify immediate reactions from colleagues. Additionally, observing subtle signals, such as a gesture of frustration or a body lean, can help detect misunderstandings or tensions before they escalate into larger issues.
Creating Human Connections
Micro-expressions and subtle signals significantly contribute to building interpersonal relationships in the online environment. These forms of communication help establish empathy and mutual understanding among colleagues. For example, during a video conference, observing a micro-expression indicating joy or approval can reinforce the sense of belonging and collaboration within the team. This emotional connection is essential for maintaining a positive work climate and increasing employee motivation.
Adapting to Diverse Communication Styles
Every individual has their own communication style, influenced by culture, previous experiences, and personality. Micro-expressions and subtle signals allow team members to adapt to the different communication styles of their colleagues. For example, a colleague who frequently uses animated gestures may require a more enthusiastic response from others to maintain effective communication flow. By observing these signals, team members can adjust their behavior to better align with their colleagues, thus facilitating smoother and more harmonious communication.
In conclusion, micro-expressions and subtle signals are essential components of non-verbal communication in virtual environments. They contribute to clarifying messages, creating human connections, and adapting to diverse communication styles. Although technology has transformed the way we interact, integrating these subtle elements into online communication is vital for ensuring effective collaboration and maintaining healthy relationships within teams. In an increasingly digitalized professional landscape, the ability to recognize and interpret micro-expressions becomes a valuable skill for success in virtual communication.
Chapter 2: Micro-Expressions in a Digital Context
Micro-expressions represent rapid, involuntary facial reactions that reveal a person's emotions and inner states. In digital environments, observing and interpreting these micro-expressions becomes essential for effective communication, despite being influenced by various technological and contextual limitations.
Defining Micro-Expressions
Micro-expressions are brief facial expressions that manifest involuntarily and can indicate a wide range of emotions, such as:
Happiness
Sadness
Confusion
Frustration
In the digital environment, these micro-expressions may be harder to observe, given that interactions typically occur through screens.
Challenges of Observing Micro-Expressions Online
One of the biggest challenges in observing micro-expressions online is the limitation of technology. These limitations include:
Image and Sound Quality: This can influence the ability to observe micro-expressions.
Screen Size: This may restrict visibility of important facial details.
The absence of direct eye contact in digital settings can lead to a loss of non-verbal signals. In textual interactions, micro-expressions are completely absent, making it more difficult to deduce the emotional state of the interlocutor.
Opportunities Offered by Micro-Expressions in the Digital Environment
There are also significant opportunities offered by micro-expressions in the digital environment:
Videoconferencing: These platforms allow real-time observation of micro-expressions, facilitating the interpretation of emotions. Advanced technology, such as facial analysis, can aid in identifying non-verbal reactions of participants.
Emojis and Visual Symbols: In the absence of micro-expressions, the use of emojis and visual symbols can complement communication, adding a layer of expressiveness and helping clarify intentions and emotions in written messages.
Impact of Micro-Expressions on Online Collaboration
Micro-expressions have a significant impact on online collaboration:
Building Trust: Observing these reactions can contribute to establishing trust and creating human connections. Positive non-verbal feedback, such as smiles or approval, can enhance motivation and engagement among team members.
Identifying Problems: Micro-expressions can help detect tensions or frustrations, allowing prompt interventions to resolve misunderstandings.
Micro-expressions play an essential role in digital communication, influencing professional interactions and collaboration among team members. Although technology may limit the observation of these non-verbal signals, the correct use of digital tools and visual symbols can facilitate effective communication. In an increasingly digital professional landscape, integrating micro-expressions into online interactions becomes crucial for successful collaboration and maintaining human relationships.
2.1. What are Micro-Expressions and How They Influence Collaboration
Micro-expressions are brief and involuntary facial expressions that appear in response to emotions and internal states. They can be observed in moments of emotional intensity and often last only a fraction of a second. Although difficult to detect, micro-expressions play a vital role in non-verbal communication and can significantly influence interactions and collaboration in professional settings.
Definition of Micro-Expressions
Micro-expressions are subtle facial reactions that can reveal a wide range of emotions, including:
Happiness: An expression of joy that can create a positive working environment.
Sadness: A reaction that may indicate a need for support or compassion from colleagues.
Frustration: A micro-expression that can signal difficulties in communication or misunderstandings.
Confusion: Indicates a need for clarification, allowing for quick interventions to avoid conflicts.
Impact of Micro-Expressions on Collaboration
Micro-expressions influence collaboration in several ways:
Improving Communication: Observing micro-expressions allows participants to capture the emotional nuances within discussions. This facilitates a deeper understanding of conveyed messages and helps interpret the real intentions of interlocutors.
For instance, a smile or positive gesture can reinforce a message of appreciation, thus boosting team morale.
Detecting Problems
Micro-expressions can assist in quickly identifying tensions or misunderstandings. If a colleague shows signs of frustration or confusion, other team members can proactively intervene to clarify the situation or offer support.
This ability to detect emotions helps maintain a healthy and collaborative work climate.
Creating Human Connections
The ability to observe and respond to micro-expressions among colleagues contributes to building strong human relationships. Positive non-verbal feedback, such as smiles or approval, can enhance the sense of belonging and trust within the team.
A team that communicates effectively and understands each other's emotions is more likely to collaborate harmoniously and achieve common goals.
Improving Decisions
During decision-making processes, micro-expressions can provide clues about the acceptance or rejection of an idea. This allows participants to adjust arguments or provide additional information to clarify positions.
Thus, decisions are made in a more informed manner, based on a fuller understanding of colleagues' feelings and reactions.
Micro-expressions are a crucial aspect of non-verbal communication, significantly impacting collaboration in professional environments. The ability to observe and respond to these expressions can improve communication, assist in identifying problems, create strong human connections, and lead to more informed decisions. In an increasingly digital professional landscape, understanding micro-expressions becomes essential for successful collaboration and maintaining human relationships.
2.2. Detecting and Interpreting Micro-Expressions Through Technology
In an increasingly digitized world, technology plays an essential role in facilitating communication and collaboration in professional settings. Micro-expressions, which are rapid and involuntary facial reactions, can provide valuable insights into individuals' emotional states. Therefore, detecting and interpreting these micro-expressions becomes crucial for enhancing interactions and collaboration within teams.
Defining Micro-Expressions
Micro-expressions are brief facial reactions that reflect a person's true emotions, often hidden beneath a social mask. These can last between 1/15 and 1/25 of a second and may include expressions such as:
Anger: A tightening of the lips or furrowing of the brows.
Happiness: Lifting the corners of the mouth and relaxing the face.
Frustration: A slight closing of the eyes or tightening of the jaw.
Confusion: Furrowing the brows and tilting the head.
Due to their brief duration, these expressions are often hard to observe, making technology an important ally in their detection.
Technologies Used for Detecting Micro-Expressions
Advanced Facial Analysis
:Advanced facial analysis technologies utilize high-definition cameras to capture facial movements in detail. These systems can identify facial features and analyze subtle changes translated into specific emotions. An example of such technology is OpenFace, an open-source tool that uses facial recognition to analyze expressions in real time.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Machine learning algorithms are trained with a vast dataset to recognize and interpret micro-expressions. These systems can learn from past experiences and adapt to different types of facial expressions. For example, videoconferencing platforms can integrate AI to analyze participants' facial reactions, providing real-time feedback on their emotional states.
Emotion Monitoring Systems
There are applications specifically designed to integrate facial analysis technology with real-time feedback. These allow users to observe colleagues' emotions during meetings, thus facilitating more empathetic and adaptive communication. For instance, some videoconferencing platforms have begun implementing features that indicate participants' general emotions based on micro-expression analysis.
Challenges in Detecting Micro-Expressions
Technological Limitations
Despite advancements, technology is not perfect. Factors such as poor lighting, viewing angles, or camera quality can affect the accuracy of micro-expression detection. Additionally, non-verbal behaviors can vary significantly across cultures, leading to misinterpretations of emotions.
Ethical Considerations
The use of technology to detect micro-expressions raises ethical questions. It is important to respect individuals' privacy and consent when analyzing their emotions. Furthermore, there is a risk that these technologies may be misused, either for emotional manipulation or for evaluating employee performance in ways that may not always be fair.
Interpreting Micro-Expressions
Cultural Context
The interpretation of micro-expressions must consider cultural context, as facial expressions may have different meanings across cultures. Advanced technology can help adapt interpretations to reflect these cultural nuances, facilitating more effective communication between multicultural teams. For example, in some cultures, a happy expression may be associated with more reserved behavior, while in others, it may be interpreted as exuberant.
Real-Time Feedback
Modern technologies allow users to receive instant feedback on observed micro-expressions. This can help adjust behavior in real time and facilitate more harmonious interactions. Real-time feedback can contribute to more open communication, enabling teams to quickly address any tensions or misunderstandings.
Detecting and interpreting micro-expressions through technology represents a significant advancement in digital communication. These tools not only enhance professional interactions but also contribute to creating a more empathetic and collaborative work environment. While there are challenges related to the accuracy and ethics of using these technologies, the benefits brought by detecting micro-expressions underscore their importance in modern workplaces. As technology continues to evolve, understanding and properly utilizing micro-expressions will become increasingly essential for the success and cohesion of professional teams.
2.3. Utilizing Micro-Expressions to Improve Interpersonal Relationships in Teams
Micro-expressions, rapid and involuntary facial reactions, represent a valuable tool in non-verbal communication. They provide insights into individuals' emotional states and attitudes, significantly impacting interpersonal relationships in professional contexts. In this section, we aim to explore how micro-expressions can contribute to enhancing interpersonal relationships within teams.
The Importance of Micro-Expressions in Interpersonal Relationships
Reflecting Authentic Emotions
Micro-expressions reveal individuals' true emotions, such as happiness, frustration, or confusion. Recognizing these expressions allows team members to respond empathetically to colleagues' needs.
Reducing Misunderstandings
In the context of communication, micro-expressions help clarify verbal messages. For example, non-verbal feedback from colleagues can indicate acceptance or rejection of an idea, thereby facilitating necessary adjustments in communication.
Techniques for Utilizing Micro-Expressions in Teams
Constructive Feedback
Integrating micro-expressions into feedback processes can enhance
communication within teams. Positive expressions, such as smiles or nods, can reinforce constructive feedback, promoting a supportive work environment.
Empathetic Listening
Actively observing colleagues' micro-expressions during discussions can enhance the practice of empathetic listening. By recognizing subtle signs of discomfort or confusion, team members can ask clarifying questions or offer support, fostering open dialogue.
Conflict Resolution
Micro-expressions can serve as valuable indicators during conflict resolution processes. By identifying signs of frustration or anger, team members can address conflicts more effectively and promote understanding among colleagues.
Training and Development
Workshops on Non-Verbal Communication
Offering workshops focused on recognizing and interpreting micro-expressions can enhance team members' awareness of non-verbal communication. Such training fosters greater sensitivity to colleagues' emotions and helps create a more collaborative environment.
Regular Check-Ins
Incorporating regular check-ins within teams allows members to express their emotional states and recognize others' micro-expressions. This practice strengthens relationships and promotes a positive working climate.
Utilizing micro-expressions effectively can enhance interpersonal relationships within teams. By observing and responding to these subtle expressions, team members can improve communication, reduce misunderstandings, and foster a supportive environment. Investing in training and development opportunities that focus on recognizing micro-expressions can contribute to the long-term success and cohesion of professional teams.
Chapter 3: Subtle Digital Signals in Online Communication
Online communication has become essential in the contemporary professional environment, influencing the way we interact. Beyond verbal messages, subtle digital signals such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and gestures play a crucial role in interpreting messages.
The Importance of Subtle Digital Signals
Creating a Communication Context
Subtle signals help clarify messages. For example, an enthusiastic tone can transform a simple message into a statement full of appreciation, while a monotonous tone can lead to misunderstandings.
Enhancing Message Clarity
Non-verbal signals complement words, facilitating more effective communication. Smiles and gestures can underline emotions and help avoid misinterpretations.
Types of Subtle Digital Signals
Tone of Voice
Tone of voice conveys various emotions and can influence collaboration. A friendly tone creates closeness, while a cold tone may create distance.
Facial Expressions
These reveal the immediate reactions of the interlocutor. A smile can indicate acceptance, while a frown may signal disagreement.
Gestures
Hand gestures can add clarity to communication, helping to convey emotions and emphasize key points.
The Impact of Subtle Digital Signals
Strengthening Relationships
Subtle signals can reinforce human connections, promoting a collaborative climate. Responding to these signals helps build trust among colleagues.
Reducing Conflicts
Understanding subtle signals can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. Observing colleagues' expressions allows for prompt interventions in tense situations.
Challenges in Interpreting Subtle Digital Signals
Cultural Differences
The interpretation of signals can vary across cultures, leading to confusion. It is important to be aware of different cultural norms.
Technology Limitations
The quality of technology can affect the perception of non-verbal signals, complicating the accurate interpretation of emotions.
Subtle digital signals have a significant impact on online communication, improving relationships and collaboration. Awareness of these signals and associated challenges is essential for the success of professional interactions in the digital environment.
3.1 What are Subtle Digital Signals and How to Identify Them
Subtle digital signals are non-verbal cues that accompany online communication and influence the interpretation of messages. These include tone of voice, facial expressions, gestures, and the structure of written messages. In the digital environment, where non-verbal communication is limited, identifying these signals becomes essential.
Characteristics of Subtle Digital Signals
Non-verbal Nature: Signals are transmitted through visual or auditory means, such as facial expressions (smiles, frowns, etc.) and gestures (movements of hands or body).
Contextuality: The interpretation of signals depends on the context of communication. An enthusiastic tone may have different meanings depending on the situation.
Subtlety: These signals may be difficult to observe but provide clues about the emotional state of the interlocutor.
Ways to Identify Subtle Digital Signals
Active Observation: Pay attention to details, such as facial expressions and gestures of the interlocutor. Active listening is important so that you can notice tone of voice and inflections.
Using Technology: Video calls allow for the observation of facial expressions, while text analysis helps examine word choices for clues about emotions.
Feedback and Clarification: Requesting feedback through open-ended questions can help gain clarifications. Reformulating messages can ensure a correct interpretation of the information.
Subtle digital signals are important in online communication. By actively observing, using technology, and soliciting feedback, we can identify these signals and improve our interactions. Awareness of these aspects is essential for the success of digital communication.
3.2 The Impact of Digital Signals on Effective Collaboration
Subtle digital signals have a significant impact on effective collaboration in the online environment. These non-verbal cues can influence how team members perceive and interpret messages, thereby affecting interpersonal relationships and collective performance.
Creating a Trusting Climate
Digital signals contribute to creating a trusting climate within teams. When team members are able to observe and understand the non-verbal signals of their colleagues, a deeper connection develops. This connection facilitates open and honest communication, which is essential for collaboration.
Improving Communication
Correct interpretation of digital signals helps reduce misunderstandings and ambiguities. For instance, a friendly tone and positive facial expressions can underline support and encouragement, facilitating more effective collaboration. Team members who are aware of their colleagues' non-verbal signals can adjust their communication to better respond to their needs and emotions.
Motivating and Engaging the Team
Digital signals can influence the motivation and engagement of team members. A smile or a gesture of appreciation can encourage colleagues to actively participate in discussions and contribute ideas. Conversely, the absence of these signals can lead to discouragement and low engagement.
Managing Conflicts
Identifying and interpreting digital signals is essential for conflict management. A facial expression indicating misunderstanding may signal the need to clarify a point of view. By observing these signals, teams can address conflicts before they escalate, promoting a more harmonious working environment.
Challenges in Interpreting Digital Signals
Cultural differences can influence how digital signals are interpreted. Members of international teams need to be aware of these differences to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, the quality of technology used can affect the perception of non-verbal signals, complicating collaboration.
Subtle digital signals have a profound impact on effective collaboration in the online environment. By creating a trusting climate, improving communication, and motivating the team, these signals contribute to successful collaboration. Awareness of the challenges associated with interpreting these signals is essential to maximize the benefits of digital collaboration.
3.3 Building Empathy and Trust through Subtle Digital Signals
Building empathy and trust in the digital environment is essential for the success of collaboration and effective communication. Subtle digital signals such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and gestures play a crucial role in developing these interpersonal traits.
The Role of Digital Signals in Empathy
Digital signals contribute to creating an emotional connection between team members. When a colleague shares their emotions through a warm tone and open facial expressions, others can respond with empathy. This emotional reaction facilitates deeper and more authentic communication, allowing team members to understand each other's perspectives and needs.
Encouraging Open Dialogue
Subtle signals support a climate of openness and honesty. When team members observe that their colleagues are receptive and empathetic, they are more likely to share ideas and concerns. A smile or a gesture of encouragement can stimulate constructive conversations, promoting a collaborative working environment.
Building Trust
Trust develops through consistent and sincere interactions. Subtle digital signals such as a calm tone of voice or a positive facial expression can convey messages of support and validation. These non-verbal cues help strengthen relationships and create a solid foundation of trust within the team.
Recognizing and Validating Emotions
Recognizing colleagues' emotions through subtle digital signals is essential for building empathy. For example, a colleague who feels overwhelmed may convey this through a specific facial expression. Identifying these signals allows for appropriate interventions, such as offering support or help, thereby contributing to a more empathetic and supportive environment.
Challenges in Building Empathy and Trust
Cultural differences and communication styles can influence the interpretation of digital signals. It is important for members of international teams to be aware of these differences to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, the technology used can affect the quality of communication, connectivity issues or technical failures potentially compromising the interpretation of non-verbal signals.
Building empathy and trust through subtle digital signals is essential for creating a collaborative and harmonious working environment. By encouraging open dialogue and recognizing colleagues' emotions, teams can develop stronger and more trusting relationships. Awareness of the challenges associated with interpreting these signals is crucial for maximizing the benefits of digital collaboration.
Conclusion
In the context of digital collaboration, non-verbal signals, including micro-expressions and subtle signals, play an essential role in enhancing communication and strengthening interpersonal relationships. These subtle cues influence how messages are perceived and interpreted, directly impacting the efficiency of collaboration. Active observation of facial expressions, tone of voice, and gestures can help create a climate of trust and openness, facilitating constructive dialogues among team members.
Furthermore, subtle digital signals contribute to building empathy. When colleagues share their emotions through warm facial expressions and friendly tones, a deep emotional connection is generated that supports authentic communication. This empathy not only improves collaboration but also aids in recognizing and validating others' emotions, creating a more supportive work environment.
However, interpreting digital signals is not without challenges. Cultural differences and technological limitations can influence how these signals are perceived. Therefore, it is crucial for team members to be aware of these variables to avoid misunderstandings and maximize communication efficiency.
In conclusion, the conscious use of subtle digital signals can transform interactions in the professional environment. By enhancing communication, building empathy and trust, and successfully managing challenges, teams can achieve a higher level of collaboration, essential for success in the digital age. A deep understanding of these aspects allows professionals to successfully navigate the complexities of online interactions, ensuring that every team member feels valued and engaged.
