Secret reasons for ‘Zoom fatigue’ among American workers, says study

In the post-pandemic world, the increasing reliance on virtual meetings has led to the identification of a new phenomenon among people who are apparently fed up with talking to colleagues on computer screens. This phenomenon, known as “Zoom fatigue,” has been found to have “significant” implications for workplace productivity and individual well-being, according to a recently published study.

The study, conducted by Chaeyun Lim of the University of Michigan and her colleagues, found that “facial appearance dissatisfaction” is a key trigger of meeting fatigue. The research team recruited 2,448 U.S.-based workers, including professional, technical, and scientific workers who were working remotely and participating in regular virtual meetings with their colleagues. The survey assessed the participants’ negative perceptions of their facial appearance, as well as their use of “impression management” tools such as touch-up enhancements and video filters.

The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS One, found that workers who reported increased facial appearance dissatisfaction experienced more virtual meeting fatigue, leading to a higher use of impression management features. Lim, a doctoral student at Michigan State University, stated that “fatigue induced by facial dissatisfaction is associated with users perceiving virtual meetings as less useful,” ultimately affecting their intention to adopt virtual platforms in workplace meetings.

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News’ senior medical analyst, noted that multiple studies have shown a sense of post-pandemic loneliness and anxiety, as well as a continuing sense of disconnection to others. He emphasized that the solution to Zoom fatigue isn’t more professional cameras or makeup, but rather learning to accept oneself as they are. Siegel highlighted the importance of addressing worker well-being in virtual communication environments.

Future studies, according to researcher Lim, should recruit participants from different cultural contexts and delve deeper into how virtual meeting features facilitate workplace communication in ways that support workers’ mental health. She stressed the need to address worker well-being in virtual communication environments and reduce dissatisfaction with facial appearance that contributes to Zoom fatigue.

In conclusion, the phenomenon of “Zoom fatigue” is a real issue affecting many individuals in the post-pandemic world. By addressing the root causes of meeting fatigue, such as facial appearance dissatisfaction, and promoting self-acceptance, organizations can improve workplace productivity and enhance individual well-being in virtual communication environments.