Ever had one of those days where you’ve bounced from one virtual meeting to the next, and by the end of it, you’d give anything for some good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation? Welcome to the world of Zoom fatigue.
And guess what? It’s not just in your head. There’s actually scientific data that validates our collective exhaustion from too many video calls.
A recent study conducted by Austrian researchers explored how video conferencing impacts our mental and physical health. They hooked up participants to EEG and EKG monitors and let them loose on platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
The findings? Quite enlightening.
Firstly, the EEG readings indicated a significant spike in higher-level frequencies, which are associated with concentration, attention, and stress during online meetings. So, yes, those endless video calls are indeed making your brain work overtime.
Secondly, changes in heart rate variability suggested persistent signs of fatigue throughout an online meeting.
Now, before you decide to ditch video calls entirely, it’s important to note the context of this study. The participants were university students, and the research was conducted on-campus, not in home offices. Therefore, results might vary depending on age and environment.
But the bottom line is this: communicating via screen versus in-person can have a substantial effect on our bodies. And regardless of whether you’re a college student or a seasoned professional, video conferencing fatigue is very much a reality.
So, what’s the solution for businesses that want to leverage the advantages of video conferencing without exhausting their teams?
Consider integrating collaboration tools such as Teams, Slack, or even traditional email to minimize the need for real-time video interactions. Give your team the liberty to respond at their convenience.
When feasible and safe, schedule in-person meetings. Nothing replaces the personal connection of face-to-face communication, and it offers a welcome respite from the digital realm.
Perhaps the simplest and most effective strategy is to have a candid discussion with your team about their communication preferences. Some might excel in video meetings, while others might favor written updates or phone calls.
When scheduling video meetings, keep them concise. Avoid consecutive calls and ensure there are breaks in between to prevent burnout.
In conclusion, don’t toss out your webcam yet. Instead, reassess your communication strategies and identify a balanced approach that keeps your team engaged and energized.
Need help finding the right tech tools to keep your team productive and engaged? We’re here to assist.