Remote work saw a dramatic increase during and after the pandemic. With so many people still working from home, it’s more crucial than ever to know how to make software like Zoom and Teams work for you.
For people with hearing loss, moving to virtual meetings can make conversations clearer and more accessible. Here are three ways online meetings support better communication and how to take advantage of them to get the most out of every discussion.
How Virtual Meetings Make Communication Clearer
Three ways virtual meetings improve understanding include:
- Captions. Virtual meeting software employs real-time captioning that helps you follow along with what your coworkers or managers are saying. The captioning isn’t always perfect, but it can significantly boost your understanding.
- Recordings. Most platforms allow you to record a meeting. Being able to revisit the conversation later helps fill in any gaps you may have missed the first time. You can also pause or replay recordings at your own pace, giving you more control over processing the information.
- Transcription. Like a recording, a transcription gives you a record to look back on, only this time it’s in writing.
- Visual cues. Because people sit facing their computers, virtual meetings allow you to see facial expressions and lip movements that may not be as clear in person, especially in a large group setting. These visual cues can make a big difference in understanding the flow and tone of a conversation.
How To Make the Most of Your Virtual Meetings
A couple of ways you can make the most of your virtual meetings include:
- Use Bluetooth®. You can connect your hearing aids to your laptop via Bluetooth to stream audio right to your ears. This direct connection helps ensure information isn’t getting lost in the weeds.
- Reread or rewatch. If you transcribed or recorded complicated meetings, review the information afterward. You can even make notes on the points you weren’t clear on to review specific bits later.
- Use the chat. Virtual meetings have a chat window. You can use it to ask questions or give input. The chat window is especially helpful for people who might not feel comfortable speaking up in meetings.
By employing a few of these tips, you can ensure you get all the information you need to excel in your career. For more information on managing your hearing loss, contact Today’s Hearing.