Combat Zoom fatigue in this unexpected way
Zoom fatigue is a very real thing. It describes the tiredness, worry, or burnout associated with overusing virtual platforms of communication. Given the prevalence of it in our current lives, it’s resulted in many people reporting that they are working overtime, but are less productive.
Being on a video call requires more focus than a face-to-face chat because we have so many more distractions competing for our attention. Virtual meetings mean we need to work harder to process non-verbal cues like facial expressions, tone and pitch, as well as body language. While it may not seem like it, paying more attention to these behaviours can consume a lot of energy when it’s different from what you do on autopilot.
One good way to combat Zoom fatigue? Video.
It may sound counterintuitive, but video overcomes a few of the issues that contribute to zoom fatigue:
- Silence – Gianpiero Petriglieri, an Associate Professor at Insead, explores sustainable learning and development in the workplace. He says, “Silence creates a natural rhythm in a real-life conversation. However, when it happens in a video call, you become anxious about the technology.” It also makes people uncomfortable. This is overcome by playing a video because everyone on the call relaxes knowing that any silences will be few and if not, purposeful. There there is no anxiety to interupt the silence when a video is playing.
- Mutual Gaze – Do you feel awkward making eye contact for a long time? This is your time to shine! According to Psychiatric Times there is robust evidence on how eye contact improves connection and builds trust. However, on video calls your gaze must be directed at the camera to appear like making eye contact.Sometimes this trick can be difficult to remember and maintain as we’re all inclined to look directly at the participant faces (including ourselves…we know you do it, too). However, when you produce a video properly you can ensure everyone is looking where’s required to give the impression its eye-to-eye.
When reviewing your existing pitch, assess what information could potentially be conveyed through video, to save time and keep people engaged by mixing things up a bit.
Here are some suggestions for ways to incorporate video into virtual meetings:
- Showcasing your USP
- Case studies and testimonials
- Your process
Added benefits of video
Video links can also be shared on your social channels, website, in eDMs and directly via email with investors or clients post-pitch meeting. Being able to share your story and use video across multiple channels makes it well worth the investment. Alternatively, if you’re creating a video for a specific client pitch, that level of personalisation will almost certainly boost their impression of you and your business to help you win the deal.
For help creating videos that tell your story, get in touch with our team.
Looking for other ways to improve the average video call?
Check out our top five tools for jazzing up your virtual meetings or chat with us about 1:1 coaching to make sure you’re engaging your audience, regardless of where you’re presenting.
