As Zoom, and similar platforms, have become the de facto means of communication during the Covid pandemic, there have been a growing number of studies looking into the consequences of such a medium for our ability to communicate effectively.  The latest such study comes from the University of Gothenburg, which explores how our gaze affects how others think of us during a video meeting.

The study suggests that when we look directly at the camera during our video meetings, we tend to be perceived as more sympathetic and sociable than if our gaze moves around more.

“Having previously focused on what causes Zoom fatigue, we wanted to investigate the more positive aspects of video meetings,” the researchers explain. “We wondered what participants can do to come across in a more positive light.”

Creating the right impression

The researchers created just under 300 screenshots of people in various poses.  For instance, sometimes the individuals would be looking at the camera or at other participants in the call, or even to the side.  Other times they’d be sat close to the camera or further away.

A group of around 4,000 volunteers from around the world were then shown a selection of these images before being asked to say to what extent they thought the individuals were trustworthy, sociable, sympathetic or threatening.

“In order to be judged as more positive, sympathetic and present in the discussion, you should look directly into the camera—not at the other participants’ faces on the screen or away from the computer,” the researchers explain. “The camera should also be positioned higher than eye level to create a high camera angle.”