How to Avoid Zoom Fatigue
An increasing reliance on technology keeps us connected. It’s easy to turn to Zoom meetings as a replacement for in person interactions. This increase in virtual meetings creates the frequently used term “zoom fatigue”.

Here are some tips to keep your staff engaged and free of fatigue in your meetings:

What is Zoom fatigue?
Zoom fatigue is a term used to describe the feeling of dread or disdain for online meetings.
 
Does this need to be a meeting?
If the information you want to share can be sent in an email or message, then you might not actually have to have a meeting. Meetings should be reserved for when you need to present information in a quick way or in person.
 
Keep the meeting productive
Send out an agenda ahead of time to keep things on track, so your attendees know what to expect. Address only topics that affect every participant. If only one or two attendees could use that information, it should not take up the time of the other group members. Keep your meeting relevant and productive. That will help your members stay engaged.
 
Large group events
Group events are a fantastic way to keep the team close, but events can fall flat when attendees are not engaged.
 
Add a schedule of events so attendees know what to expect with an included start and end time so attendees can schedule the rest of their day. Avoid prolonged periods with only one person talking and focus on group activities that help attendees connect.
 
Start an event with a competition to get everyone excited and engaged. An at home scavenger hunt, group trivia, or costume contest with a small prize can get the excitement flowing. Use breakout rooms to help attendees have more meaningful interactions with each other.

Small group events
Zoom fatigue can hit your more introverted or anxious staff harder than others.

Have optional and frequent events such as lunches or happy hours so those who are interested can still stay connected. Make sure everyone knows participation is voluntary. Don’t pressure people to join.
 
Create a sign-up sheet with limited spots to keep events small and meaningful. These more casual events typically do not need a group leader.
 
Treat your team
Occasionally schedule fun activities. This can be something as simple as sending your team an Uber Eats gift card, or something more exciting like hiring a chef to do a group cooking class. Make sure this is an activity that everyone on your team can participate in.
 
Treating your staff to a fun non-work-related activity will not only give your team a break. It will make your team feel more valued.