When I was a kid there was a GREAT television show called Zoom, literally fun kids from Boston doing fun things after school. I loved it and so did most of my generation. So every time I use Zoom, I start singing the Zoom theme song and it makes me smile. I loved this recent New Yorker article about some of the original cast members.

But let’s face it a lot of people aren’t smiling on Zoom these days.

I’ve been using Zoom for years to connect with clients all over the world. But as work from home has become a norm, I keep hearing about Zoom fatigue – or fill in the blank with any other video conferencing platform fatigue.

I for one have been grateful for the opportunity to continue connecting with clients and leaders while sitting in my home office. I’m not fatigued but energized that technology makes these connections possible.

As a coach, facilitator, and speaker I have added some things to my office to make my virtual presentations feel like actual ones, including: great lighting; virtual backgrounds; a stand-up desk (best pandemic purchase EVER); and yes, I even wear high heels and jewelry to make it feel like I’m presenting on a stage. The other day I presented a virtual keynote to over 150 women. The little boxes filled me with so much energy knowing that they had taken the time to step away from their lives and work to hear my message. I did my Power Pose, took a deep breath, and I looked at the camera like I was talking to each one of them.

I believe Zoom fatigue is happening not just because of the issues that are inherent in the technology (looking at yourself, looking at the camera not the other person, and all that sitting) but perhaps fatigue is setting in for all the same reasons people become fatigued by bad meetings: bad content and bad communications.

So before you hit send on another Zoom invite ask yourself these basic who, what, why when and where questions:

Who really needs to be present? Don’t include EVERYONE if they don’t need to be there. Test of reasonableness - if they wouldn’t have come to an in person meeting don’t include them in the virtual one.

What can I do to ensure my content is impactful, inspiring, and engaging? Raise your virtual game.

Why use Zoom at all? Is the platform the best way to impact this audience? .

When is the best time to ensure maximum engagement?

Where should we meet and connect – telephone, Zoom, or if at all possible, in person (socially distanced with masks)?

Let’s not blame the technology – let’s celebrate that we have it at all.

Outlaw Leaders™ think about who, what, when, where and how before they Zoom.

I’m an Outlaw Leader™ with an EDGE: Explore, Dream, Grow & Excite™ are you?