Agile Mindset for Manufacturers: Fighting Zoom Fatigue

The Action Engineering team embraces an Agile mindset & Scrum practices in our work.
In our Agile articles, we share tips & coaching opportunities that work well for us. 

Virtual working is here to stay for many jobs, so as we lean into this way of working, there are some tips and tricks to avoid ‘Zoom Fatigue.’

How often do you find yourself distracted by seeing your own face during a video call? Or just double-checking that your pile of laundry is off-camera? If the video system you’re using has the option, turn off the self-view option. Seeing your own face actually contributes to Zoom Fatigue. Try to keep a simple background to avoid distracting your coworkers as well. As much fun as it is to try to guess what exotic location you are ‘virtually traveling’ to, it can be distracting.

When we were able to meet in person, meetings didn’t require us to sit in front of our computers. Often, a meeting was a break from the eyestrain of staring at screens. It allowed for time to step away from the ringing, buzzing phone and computer. Video meetings now require us to be tied to our computers, which tempts us to multitask. To help prevent fatigue, shut down Outlook, put your phone on silent, and focus on the meeting that’s unfolding. Just because you are in front of your computer doesn’t mean you have to be available to those outside the meeting!

While video calls are generally the best practice, sometimes you just need a break from the screen time and should revert to a simple phone call. Next time you have a one-on-one with someone, agree that both of you will chat while on a walk. Plug the headphones in, lace up your shoes, and go for a walk while chatting. The beginning-of-fall weather has been absolutely gorgeous, and walking while talking can lead to a more casual but personal conversation!

Are you suffering from Zoom Fatigue? Send us a message, and we can chat about how to combat it! Promise, we won’t video call you.