Whether you work in a large contact center or a small customer service team, your constant use of a computer puts you at risk of vision issues. Here’s how to avoid them.
Some experts call the eye fatigue caused by looking at a monitor for extended periods of time computer-vision syndrome. Symptoms include:
- eyestrain
- headaches
- blurred vision
- dry eyes, and
- neck and shoulder pain
The symptoms are often caused by poor lighting, glare on the computer screen, bad viewing distance to the screen and/or poor seating posture, according to The American Optometric Association.
You’re at risk
Considering the amount of time customer care professionals spend in front of the computer helping customers, it’s not surprising they often suffer from these eye strains.
The good news: You can avoid them.
Try to:
- Rest your eyes regularly, taking breaks from the computer at least hourly
- Blink frequently so your eyes stay moist
- Reduce glare on the monitor by adjusting the light around your desk. A screen filter can be used, too
- Keep your monitor at eye level or just below it
- Keep the distance between your eyes and the monitor about the same as when you are reading a book
- If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, have them checked regularly to be sure you’re wearing the correct prescription, and
- If possible, invest in a monitor with a liquid crystal display or another model with a high refresh rate that flickers less.
