Zoom and similar online video technologies are great – they offer a lot of features for meetings and are keeping the industry connected.
But, just quietly, we’re getting a little over them. And we’re not alone. There have been rumblings in the industry that too many webinar invites are being sent out, too much content is on offer and that hour-long virtual meetings demand a lot of concentration.
The BBC recently spoke with Gianpiero Petriglieri, an associate professor who explores sustainable development and learning in the workplace, about the rise in ‘Zoom fatigue’. According to Petriglieri, video chats consume more energy than in-person ones due to the need to process non-verbal cues like facial expressions; the tone and pitch of voice; and body language. He also said that the awareness of being watched can be very nerve-wracking and stressful, and that silence on video calls can disrupt the rhythm of conversation and increase anxiety.
Perhaps disillusionment with video technology is a good thing. It could mean that there will always be a place for face-to-face meetings, and that online events will not become the new normal.
Do you have thoughts on the matter? Let us know at digital1@btp.net.au.