Hearing loss can make work communications difficult. Utilize video conferences and closed captions during work meetings, so you never miss a beat.
Communicating Remotely With Hearing Loss
Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Talk to your employer or the meeting organizer about your hearing loss to create a plan. Having a discussion ahead of time means you won’t have to struggle to keep up during your work call.
Here are some tips to keep you in the loop:
- Use video: Seeing faces means you can read lips and visual cues that help clarify conversations.
- Find good lighting: Light sources should be in front of your device, so you don’t cover your face in shadow. Ask others to do the same, if possible.
- Take your time: Use the first few minutes of a meeting to chat with your coworkers and gauge your hearing ability before you talk business.
- Practice good manners: Don’t interrupt others and don’t cover your mouth while you’re speaking.
- Mute your device: You’ll reduce background noise and feedback that can obstruct your hearing.
Hearing Devices
Earbuds, headphones, and Bluetooth hearing aids will also useful for cutting background noise. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to pair your hearing aids with smart devices, computers, or tablets.
You’ll benefit from natural-sounding audio delivered right to your hearing aids. It’s also a hands-free application, so you can keep working while you listen.
Video Conference Tools For Hearing Loss
Depending on the conference application and your device, you may be able to record meetings, activate closed captions, and share screens.
Recording a meeting: It’s usually up to the meeting organizer to record video conferences. Talk about it before the meeting in case you lose your wireless connection and need to catch up later.
Closed Captions: Captions can be typed by the webinar host, cohost, or another assigned party. Meeting applications like Zoom and Google Meet offer closed captions for all users.
Sharing screens: Allowing others to view the same screen makes for more precise communication. Share your screen if you’re hosting a video conference and highlight information as you go.
Audiology & Hearing Aid Solutions has the services and devices you need to maintain quality communication while you work from home. Call 888.473.8702 or contact us online for more information.
