Online meetings are draining, and it’s no wonder – there’s a lot going on behind the scenes and you’re probably multitasking to keep up. Technology can add to this stress, too, with multiple alerts popping up on your screen. While video-conferencing can be beneficial, virtual meetings can be extremely draining if it’s a long-distance call. But what’s the solution? There are some simple ways to improve the overall experience.
Videoconferencing
In this article, we explore how to minimize videoconferencing exhaustion in online meetings. There are several potential causes of videoconferencing fatigue, including social, organizational, technological, and environmental factors. We also examine the effect of the Differential Susceptibility of Media Effects Model on these factors. The study results are discussed in the following paragraphs. These findings are a start to addressing the growing concern about videoconference fatigue in online meetings.
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In video conferences, many aspects of a person’s life are combined into a single interaction. Because of this, cognitive load is higher in video chats. As a result, experts recommend scheduling short breaks during video conferences. Likewise, individuals who participate in online meetings should take periodic breaks to stretch, breathe deeply, and take cognitive breaks. Video conferencing requires participants to move from one place to another, and the process can become cognitively taxing.
Multitasking
When participating in online meetings, it’s tempting to multitask. But doing so reduces your productivity and makes you feel more tired later. Instead, take a moment to prepare before the meeting and close any extra tabs. Switch off your cell phone, put it on silent mode, and hide any distracting programs. If possible, tell your co-workers that the meeting is taking place. Taking a few minutes to prepare beforehand will go a long way toward combating Zoom fatigue.
Before joining an online meeting, clearly state your goals and your role in achieving those goals. If you don’t define what your objectives are, you’re likely to multitask and miss action items. Try to focus on just one goal at a time and follow through on the plan that you’ve laid out. If you can clearly define your goals and everyone’s part in achieving those goals, the meeting will be more productive and less stressful.
Face-to-face communication
It is not only a hassle for participants to communicate by email, but also a drain on their energy. The fact is that video conferencing eliminates non-verbal cues such as squinting, fidgeting, and nodding dramatically – all of which are essential for communicating in person. Moreover, people speaking over video are 15% louder than in person, making the participants appear less attentive.
Even though video conferencing and instant messaging have made it easier to communicate with people in different countries and continents, they are still not as effective as a face-to-face meeting. 85% of survey participants stated that face-to-face meetings build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Online meetings also tend to lead to lower conversion rates. Face-to-face meetings are still more effective than video meetings for most purposes.
Computer camera distractions
Recent research has revealed that computer camera distractions in online meetings can lead to decreased performance. The results of this study show that participants rated themselves as more tired after video meetings, with lower levels of engagement and voice participation. It seems, then, that the conventional wisdom that video meetings are required to increase efficiency is flawed. There are several things that Zoom users can do to counteract the effects of computer camera distractions in online meetings.
Video-sharing sessions are exhausting. Having to focus intently while watching someone else’s video is mentally exhausting. To avoid video burnout, pace the meetings. Some meetings can be conducted face-to-face, but others may need to attend on mute. Alternatively, one-on-one meetings are more likely to benefit from video distractions than company-wide meetings. However, keep in mind that your colleagues will appreciate the break you’re taking from video.
Being a’silent and invisible listener’
Being a’silent and invisible listener’ is an exhausting job. Especially if you are the brightest one in the room. This person knows when to shut up, but he or she may not be able to do it when you’re talking. Being a’silent and invisible listener’ in online meetings is tiring.