Speaking with attorneys, CPAs, or other professional partners from home has become the new normal for many people, and with it comes the challenge of dealing with background noise during calls. Whether it’s barking dogs, crying babies, or loud hammering right outside your window, background noise can be distracting and make it difficult to communicate effectively with clients or colleagues. Fortunately, there are several ways to block out background noise and improve the quality of your calls.
Use a noise-cancelling headset.
One of the most effective ways to block out background noise is to use a noise-cancelling headset. These headsets use advanced technology to cancel out background noise, making it easier to hear and be heard during calls. There are many different noise-cancelling headsets available, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models. This New York Times article details the top four brands of noise-cancelling headphones.
Soundproof your office space.
Another straightforward way to reduce background noise is to close windows and doors. This can help to block out external noise from traffic, construction, or other sources. If you live in a noisy area, consider investing in soundproof curtains, door jams, or window inserts to further reduce noise levels.
Use a noise gate.
A noise gate is a software tool that can help to reduce background noise during calls. It works by automatically muting your microphone when you’re not speaking, which can help to eliminate background noise. Many video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, have built-in noise gate features that you can enable. For iPhone and Android users, noise-cancellation features are often turned on by default, but this Wall Street Journal article includes a step-by-step guide to adjust these features.
Position yourself away from noise sources.
If you’re unable to eliminate background noise completely, try to position yourself away from noise sources. For example, if you live at a busy intersection, try to take your calls from a room far away from any window overlooking the street. This can help reduce the amount of honking or other background noise picked up by your microphone.
Use a virtual background.
Many video conferencing platforms allow you to use a virtual background, which can help to hide non-auditory “background noise.” For example, if you have a messy room or other distracting background, you can use a virtual background to create a more professional appearance. This can also help to draw attention away from the din of visual chaos.