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Top Tips for Online Recordings
Online interviews and discussions are increasingly becoming part of everyday life, and these often need to be transcribed into text. So how can you make sure that you can get the most from your online session and what do you need to take into consideration when doing an online interview or recording?
Equipment
Make sure your internet connection is working at a good speed, check your computer equipment – camera, microphone, and any software – are all working properly before the recording commences. Ensure your camera is positioned correctly before you get started (ideally in line with the top of your head). It is good practice to do a test call with a friend or family member if you have not used the software/equipment before. Make sure alerts will not appear or sound on your device – remember to put your mobile phone to silent.
Location
Select an area with good lighting with no distracting background – or consider using a virtual background if this is not possible. Always make sure that the location for your interview is in a quiet area, with no distractions like noisy appliances, or children or pets. If you’re working from home, let your household know that you are being recorded and not to interrupt!
Sound
Echoes can really distort a recording and impact what a transcriber can hear so don’t pick a large empty space with no soft furnishing. Also, try to minimise outside noise – it is amazing how traffic noise or bird song can be picked up in a recording. Remember if you are taking notes that you should do this with a pen and paper, and not be clicking noisily away on your keyboard.
Voice
Make sure that you speak clearly and concisely, try to avoid speaking quickly or excitedly. Try not to sniff, sigh, cough, etc, as this can distort what you are saying as well as not look professional. Pay attention and take brief pauses before answering to gather your thoughts and avoid interrupting. Try not to make encouraging noise likes ‘Yes’, ‘Hm-mm’, as this may cut out the other person speaking. Don’t be tempted to eat or drink in your recording as the microphone will pick up every chew and swallow!
Eye Contact and Body Language
Make sure you know where the camera is on your equipment and to look at that and not just the screen or looking down. Good eye contact is essential for coming across as engaged and focused. Remember to sit up straight and engage in the conversation. Try to smile, nod in agreement and show interest – try to avoid appearing disinterested or slouching in your chair.
Top 10 things not to do when recording online:
- Don’t be late or connect at the last minute.
- Not ensuring the equipment is working correctly – poor connection and/or software issues.
- Not being prepared for what you will say on the call – and not asking the right questions.
- Dressed inappropriately – block colours are better than stripes or patterns.
- Poor body language – don’t slouch, sit up in your chair.
- Don’t stare into space – always maintain good eye contact at all times.
- Messy background – always think about the background behind you.
- Bad lighting and sound – make sure you are in a well-lit and quiet area.
- Distractions – make sure you are not distracted by pets, children, mobile phones.
- Don’t talk too fast – make sure you listen and pause before you answer the question.
By following these suggestions, you should be able to present yourself confidently and professionally and give a clear recording that can be used for a plethora of things. Practice always makes perfect when it comes to online recordings – if you can’t practice with a friend try recording yourself and playing it back to see how you appear. It is surprising how fidgeting, twirling hair and touching your face can become distracting to the viewer. Always think about what you say, a recording with word fillers like ‘er, ums, and likes’, can distract from what you really want to get across.
Here at McGowan Transcriptions, we consider your content to be as valuable and important as you do. We have a team of expert human transcribers who are experienced in understanding many subjects and industries, skilled in research, and dedicated to providing the most accurate transcripts for your projects. Call the team today for a chat about how we can help you maximise your message on 0800 158 3747 or drop us an email at office@mcgowantranscriptions.co.uk.
Written by Cheryl Evans
April 2024
