ZOOM FATIGUE
The Coronavirus pandemic has forced people all over the world to change the way they communicate. Unable to meet in person, hundreds of millions have been using Zoom to connect online with colleagues, family, and friends. However, Zoom meetings often leave participants completely exhausted. This feeling is so common that it has been given a name: "Zoom fatigue." Of course, it could simply be the result of spending long hours in front of a computer. But studies have shown there are other reasons as well.(lines 1–6)
According to psychologist Dr. Alice Barton, participants in Zoom meetings focus mainly on each other's faces. This is a serious problem because so much communication depends on body language. "When we're speaking, people's body movements show us how they're reacting to what we're saying. These non-verbal cues also indicate when a person wants to join in the conversation. When we don't see them, discussion becomes difficult and tiring," explains Barton. "Zoom has various emojis – for example, a raised hand – that are meant to represent natural gestures. But these are obviously limited in the non-verbal information they provide."(lines 7–13)
Another cause of Zoom fatigue is stress. "During meetings, we feel like everyone is watching us. To show we're paying attention we try to sit still, look straight at the camera, and keep an interested expression on our face," says Barton. "But constantly worrying about being watched is exhausting. Moreover, sometimes it takes so much energy that we find it hard to concentrate on the discussion." This is why she recommends that people turn off their cameras for a short while during Zoom meetings. That will allow them to relax and concentrate better.(lines 14–19)
There are other aspects of Zoom that are stressful for many of us. "When meeting in person at the office, we have fun joking and chatting with the other people there," says Barton. "On Zoom we don't do that because the meetings are all about work." The fact that we often join the meetings from home can be a problem too, she adds. "Our colleagues and bosses might 'enter' our homes when we are unprepared – for example, when the room is messy or the kids are running around. This is uncomfortable for everyone involved."(lines 20–25)
Some experts are less concerned about such problems. "Zoom can be a wonderful tool. You just need to use it properly," claims office manager Andrew Morrison. "For example, don't overuse it – sometimes an email or a phone call is enough. Also, there should be breaks in all online meetings because stretching your legs or getting a cup of coffee can make a big difference. Done right, Zoom meetings can be a more positive experience."(lines 26–30)