Turning your camera off during virtual meetings can reduce fatigue, finds study

Virtual meetings have become an integral part of our daily lives, especially since the onset of the pandemic. However, a recent study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology suggests that having your camera on during these meetings can lead to “Zoom fatigue” – a feeling of exhaustion and lack of energy after a day of virtual interactions.

Allison Gabriel, a distinguished scholar at the University of Arizona Eller College of Management, conducted research to understand the role of cameras in employee fatigue and whether certain employees are more affected than others. The study involved 103 participants and over 1,400 observations conducted over a four-week period.

You are reading: Turning your camera off during virtual meetings can reduce fatigue, finds study

See more : You’ll want to keep this first-aid guide for sprains handy for emergencies

Contrary to popular belief, the research found that having your camera on during virtual meetings can actually be more tiring. Participants who had their cameras on reported feeling more fatigued compared to those who didn’t use their cameras. This fatigue was also linked to lower engagement and participation during the meetings.

The pressure to present oneself professionally, maintain a suitable background, or keep children out of sight adds to the stress of being on camera. These self-presentation pressures were found to be stronger for women and employees newer to the organization. Factors such as the need to appear effortlessly perfect or the possibility of childcare interruptions contributed to heightened fatigue levels.

See more : Belly fat in women: 6 ways to reduce fat around your stomach

According to Gabriel, expecting employees to keep their cameras on during Zoom meetings is not the best approach. Instead, she suggests giving employees the autonomy to choose whether or not to use their cameras. It’s important not to assume that someone’s productivity or attentiveness is compromised if they choose to keep their camera off. Autonomy and support in the workplace are crucial for employees to perform at their best.

This research highlights the need to address the phenomenon of “Zoom fatigue” and its impact on employee well-being. By allowing individuals to make their own choices regarding camera usage, organizations can foster a more supportive and productive work environment. So, the next time you’re in a virtual meeting, feel free to turn off your camera and alleviate some of that virtual meeting fatigue.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health