What should I do while I'm waiting for a Zoom meeting to start?

It’s 11:04am and you’re still alone on the Zoom. The silence is deafening.

Existential dread sets in.

When is it appropriate to send the “Is now still good?” message?

It’s not like they’re going to see it. If they were attentive they’d be in the meeting and this wouldn’t be happening to you.

A Slack DM would do, sure. But you don’t always have that luxury. Email seems so aggressive.

You go to your inbox and refresh. 

Refresh.

Refresh.

It’s 11:06 now. Something is definitely wrong. 

What if you send the email and tomorrow you get a response from their boss that says, “Sorry, I’m just receiving this. So-and-so tragically died yesterday.”

What if they’re dying right now? Should you call in a wellness check?

It’s 11:07. You open up a fresh email.

Subject: Now still good?

Hi, So-and-so. I’m on the Zoom. Let me know if we should schedule for a different time.

You check the Zoom.

Refresh your inbox one more time.

Sen...

Check the Zoom one more time.

SEND

Then... from a window buried deep under your browser, as if coming from beyond the grave: “Hi Claire. Sorry I’m late.” 

I have an exaggerated startle response. I’ve screamed before. 

Screaming is a great conversation starter. Really makes an impression.

Remember to laugh after screaming, though.

“I’m so glad you’re okay,” I want to say. 

“I was so worried,” I almost say.

“No worries,” I actually say. 

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👋 I’m Claire. I have meeting anxiety. You probably couldn’t tell. I play it off so well. Wanna see what I'm like on a real video conference?

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