Ensuring good audio quality for videoconferences
Providing good audio quality for distance interpreting is easier than you think
Meetings, conferences and other events are increasingly being held online. Our conference interpreters are on hand to support you remotely (a service known as remote interpreting or distance interpreting). They ensure that multilingual communication runs smoothly during your international online event.
However, poor audio quality, a weak connection and background noise can be tiring for all participants. These difficulties soon become a major issue for interpreters in particular because they have to speak at the same time as the original speakers while interpreting. This is why they need consistently good audio quality to be able to interpret at all.
The good news is: providing good audio is easier than you think. And it also means that the message is conveyed much more effectively to those listening to the original language, too. The German Association of Conference Interpreters (VKD) explains how this works and just how simple it is in this short video.
Remote interpreting: Five tips to ensure good audio quality
These are our top five tips to make sure that your audio quality is sufficient for remote interpreting.
- Close windows and doors to minimise any noise from outside. Try to eliminate any sources of noise inside the space you’re in, too.
- Optimise your acoustics. Curtains, bookshelves and soft furnishings can help improve the way your space absorbs sound.
- Ensure your internet connection is stable (preferably cabled). If your connection is weak or unreliable, your message could get lost entirely.
- Make sure you’re equipped. If you use proper audio equipment, such as a cabled headset, your voice will thank you.
- Be considerate. Don’t interrupt each other and remember to mute your microphone whenever you’re not speaking.
How to download the video
You can download the video here. Right-click on the link below and select “Save target as...”. Use the video to highlight the importance of good audio quality before or at the start of a video conference.
