What to consider when preparing for a virtual appraisal

Technology:

You should agree with the doctor being appraised which technology platform will be used and check it is available for both of you.
It may be useful to arrange a time in advance of the appraisal to try out the technology and allow time to iron out any technical difficulties.
Ensure you have good connection and internet speed to ensure video conferencing can be used without interruption.
A computer or laptop is preferred – a phone screen will be too small to facilitate good body language communication.
Use of two screens may be helpful to allow you to view MARS and the other person.
If using a laptop, ensure your device has plenty of battery charge ahead of the appraisal meeting, or can be connected to a mains supply.
Send out a meeting invitation several days before including any password and other joining instructions.

Building a rapport and establishing the meeting expectations:

Discuss with the doctor how the meeting will run, setting out the expectations, for example how long it will take. This is an opportunity to begin to build rapport.
Agree a back-up plan if there are technical difficulties on the day. You may want to exchange telephone numbers to trouble shoot.
Inform the doctor being appraised that all evidence will need to be photographed or scanned and uploaded into MARS as there will not be the opportunity to view paper records.