Since the beginning of the pandemic, the use of video conferencing services has skyrocketed, and national lockdowns have made zoom (and others) a basic part of everyday life. However, not everyone has developed an affinity for this new communication.
According to a new study from presentation specialist Buffalo 87, a phenomenon called “zoom anxiety” has become a serious problem for many people. Zoom anxiety, defined as “fear when asked to jump on a video call”, affects one-third of people for all sorts of different reasons.
According to 83% of people who suffer from zoom anxiety, the most important of these is not easily fixed due to a technical glitch. In this case, consumers are concerned about uplifting customers, clients, and colleagues and exposing their incompetence.
Other common factors are inability to read body language effectively (67%), feelings you have never heard (56%), inadequate time to form (41%) and concerns about the professional nature of the background (34%). ).
Zoom in on the concern
Although many of us experience vibrations before a conference call, most of this author will be able to learn those emotions in a way that allows them to at least work while working from home.
However, for some, the possibility of a video call can feel awful, especially if it needs to be demonstrated. In addition to the epidemic, lockdown and other pressures related to job insecurity, Zoom is proving that anxiety can weaken in these situations.
“However, 2020 is no less worrying, we all have a lot to deal with,” said James Robinson, Marketing Manager at Buffalo 7. “However, 73% of respondents are struggling with zoom anxiety at some point this year, and it is clear that most video calls face their own challenges.”
In an effort to help zoom users who feel awkward or uncomfortable when asked to speak on camera, the company came up with the following tips:
Limit calls
Ask if you really need this call. For example, adding notes to a shared document is easy. Video calls may not always be the most effective option.
Turn off the cameras
Ask your employer if you need cameras for each call. If you have them, try to keep your camera at a faceless angle – you will focus less on yourself.
Allow recharge time
Talk to others about allowing only a limited number of calls per day. Is there a limit? If not, make sure there is a set time between calls to recharge.
Do not give notice
Do not call anyone without prior notice. If people have time to prepare, they will be more organized and anxious.
Let the concerns know
Communicate! Talk to superiors, talk to teams – if there is a problem, you do not know who is facing it. Encourage conversations. Ask your employer for a private chat.
