If you have been involved in group video calls recently, you are probably familiar with the “Zoom wave.” It has become a common way to bid farewell in the virtual world. Instead of abruptly leaving a meeting, people now awkwardly wave goodbye, elbow bent sharply to fit within the webcam’s view. This gesture has become part of the routine for many white-collar workers who now find themselves working remotely. But why have we collectively embraced this specific form of embarrassment?
I decided to ask some experts to understand the psychology behind the Zoom wave. Body-language researchers explained that while people may have waved before the pandemic, the gesture became more popular during the COVID-19 lockdown era. With the exponential rise in the use of video conferencing platforms like Zoom, people found themselves in unfamiliar territory. Frozen screens, audio muting, and side conversations created a sense of disembodiment, isolation, and disconnection. To make the experience feel more normal, people started incorporating the wave into their virtual interactions. Psychologist, neuroscientist, and gesture researcher Spencer Kelly described it as a way to ritualize the act of signing off from a video call.
Today, as the pandemic continues and video calling remains prevalent, the Zoom wave has become a lasting phenomenon. Despite its awkwardness, it has endured because of its ability to address the challenges of human communication in a virtual setting. In-person interactions rely heavily on nonverbal cues, such as body language, which are often lost on video calls. Joe Navarro, a nonverbal-behavior expert, explained that even subtle movements, like the arch of an eyebrow or a brief glance, convey meaningful information. These physical signals contribute to a sense of acknowledgment and affirmation. On the other hand, the absence of these cues can trigger feelings of danger or rejection. Navarro emphasized that gestures, even simple ones, demonstrate effort and care, positively influencing how we perceive others.
On platforms like Zoom, where small gestures are difficult to pick up, people have adapted by exaggerating their movements. Nodding vigorously, using exaggerated facial expressions, and incorporating emojis on the screen are all ways in which people compensate for the limitations of video calls. These emblem gestures, as they are called, serve as clear symbols that convey straightforward sentiments. The Zoom wave, in particular, transforms individuals into sentient emojis, effectively communicating their intentions and emotions.
The endurance of a gesture like the Zoom wave depends on various factors. Susan Wagner Cook, a psychologist, suggests that practicality plays a significant role. The wave is not only a warm gesture but also a way to signal the end of a meeting and acknowledge others before exiting. Diana R. Sanchez, from San Francisco State University, adds that the Zoom wave is suitable for interactions at different levels of closeness. It strikes a balance between sweetness and neutrality, making it appropriate for workplace environments.
The Zoom wave is an adaptation of the regular wave, which is commonly used to gain attention from a distance. Just as you wouldn’t wave at someone right next to you, the Zoom wave is a fitting gesture for a video call setting where emotional and physical distance are often present. When someone waves, it triggers a natural response in others to wave back, creating a sense of connection. Research suggests that synchrony in movements strengthens the feeling of connectedness. While the coordination on Zoom is often imperfect due to technical glitches, the imperfect nature of the Zoom wave may actually enhance its psychological impact.
The perfect imperfection of the Zoom wave captures the essence of this moment in time. Like video calls themselves, the gesture can be uncomfortable and awkward, yet people choose to embrace it together. In a world where social fragmentation is prevalent, there is something beautiful and necessary about the sincerity conveyed through this gesture. Despite our isolation and reliance on ever-changing technologies, we continue to seek ways to reconnect with our humanity. So, personally, I am grateful for the absurdity of the Zoom wave and will continue to embrace it as a reminder of the profound changes in the world and the unwavering essence of human nature.
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