Written by Robin N. Fatovic M.S.

Reference: Bennett, A. A., Campion, E. D., Keeler, K. R., & Keener, S. K. (2021). Video conference fatigue? exploring changes in fatigue after videoconference meetings during COVID-19. Journal of Applied Psychology, 106(3), 330–344. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000906 

COVID-19 sparked rapid changes in our lives. Video conferencing seems here to stay, but many feel “Zoom fatigue” after. What impacts Zoom fatigue?

During the pandemic, business researchers surveyed 55 remote employees in different fields once before and every hour during the workday over 5 workdays. 

Results? 93% reported feeling physically and mentally fatigued after using Zoom. Participants reported feeling fatigued within an hour of a meeting, whereas in-person workday fatigue typically happens at the end of the day. 87% felt fatigued paying extra attention to the camera, especially because their own image distracted them. Timing matters. People felt the least fatigued at 1:30 pm, after lunch. People had the least fatigue when all microphones were muted, and they felt like they belonged in the group. Sharing ideas and seeing everyone led to greater feelings of belonging with the group. 

Employers, consider holding group meetings after lunch and ask all to mute their microphones, yet encourage a sense of belonging—have all share ideas. Viewers, hide your own image and keep your webcam on to connect with others, but take quick breaks (stretch, look away from screen) to relieve Zoom fatigue!