I worked in fraud detection for a decade. Here are 4 ways to read any room you walk into.

Pamela Meyer, CEO of Calibrate, Inc., has been training organizations in fraud detection for a decade. In her book, How to Read the Room, she shares four methods to improve situational awareness when entering a new environment. Meyer suggests conducting research about the individuals present beforehand, using the "Triple B method" which includes background, behavior, and beliefs. This research can be initiated by examining their digital footprints, such as social media profiles, published works, or online subscriptions.

To minimize cognitive load, Meyer advises writing down the meeting's objectives on paper, allowing focus to remain on the person in front of you. Additionally, she recommends identifying one's own blind spots and biases, as these factors can hinder accurate observations. When entering a room, Meyer encourages pausing and observing the atmosphere before engaging in conversation.

By taking note of the overall mood, one can deduce the person with the most influence, as they often establish the tone after a conflict. Lastly, Meyer advises focusing on the room's dynamics and the events occurring around them, particularly during virtual meetings.