Ah, the snow has arrived, heralding the onset of more virtual calls. It’s that feeling again, spending endless hours in virtual meetings, yearning to trade our cherished (Don’t Touch) coffee mug for real face-to-face interactions. Enter Zoom Fatigue.
But what exactly is Zoom Fatigue?
It might sound whimsical, yet scientific evidence now backs up what many of us have sensed all along.
Recent studies conducted by Austrian universities delved into the impact of video conferencing on our mental and physical well-being. They equipped participants with EEG and ECG monitors and dived into sessions on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and similar platforms.
The findings were revealing.
EEG measurements highlighted a surge in higher-level brain signal frequencies associated with concentration, attention, and stress during online meetings compared to in-person interactions. So, the struggle to stay focused during those video calls is not just imagination—it’s a real challenge.
Moreover, the study uncovered changes in heart rate variability, indicating persistent signs of fatigue throughout online meetings.
Before swearing off video meetings forever, let’s consider the study’s context. The participants were university students, not seasoned corporate professionals, and the study was conducted on-campus, not in the comfort of home offices. Hence, there might be variations based on age and environment.
However, the crucial takeaway is this: communication via a screen versus face-to-face significantly impacts the human body. So, even if you’re not a 24-year-old student on campus, video conferencing fatigue is a genuine concern.
What can I do to prevent Zoom Fatigue?
What steps can businesses take to leverage video conferencing benefits without overwhelming their employees in the virtual realm?
Consider utilizing collaboration tools like Teams, Slack, or good old-fashioned email to minimize the necessity for real-time video meetings. Allow your team the flexibility to respond at their convenience.
Where feasible and safe, schedule in-person meetings. Nothing rivals the personal touch of face-to-face conversations and offers a refreshing break from the virtual sphere.
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Engage in an open dialogue with your employees regarding their communication preferences. While some thrive in video meetings, others might prefer written updates or phone calls.
When scheduling video meetings, aim for brevity. Avoid consecutive calls and incorporate breaks between meetings to thwart burnout.
The message is crystal clear: hold onto your webcam, but take a step back. Evaluate your communication methods and find the right balance that keeps your team invigorated and engaged.
Looking for tech tools to enhance your team’s productivity and engagement? Get in touch with us—we’re here to help.