Academic Medicine Open Forum

By now we’re all familiar with the concept of “Zoom-fatigue”—the exhaustion that comes from always being on camera. This is especially tiring for the introverts around us. Here are 4 tips to manage virtual or video meetings in a way that doesn’t burn out your team or yourself:

• Make video optional. (This seems obvious but sometimes it requires a manager to give this blessing).
• Use the chat feature, which can help the introverted or the exhausted be invited to participate without feeling put on the spot.
• Consider whether the meeting is even necessary. (Could this have been an email or a phone call?)
• Put your best foot forward. Reduce your own anxiety about how you look—and approach video meetings with confidence—by making sure you have decent lighting, a professional background, eliminating background noise distractions, etc.

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Stephanie Weiner
Manager of Digital Strategy
Association of American Medical Colleges
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More good advice on virtual meetings! Loved these "3 Tips for Better Zoom Meetings Inspired by First Graders." I hope sparkle fingers become a commonplace practice. 

1) Cover one topic at a time
2) Keep the clock in mind (shorter meetings!)
3) Use visual clues: sparkle fingers and jazz hands!!!

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Shira Kaplan
Program Manager of Leadership Development
Association of American Medical Colleges
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