Do I really need these things?
Back when I was interviewing for my Remote Work position I wore a headset and closed my office for each interview. The office had paper thin walls and everyone could hear everything. As I wanted to be sure no one knew I was looking at other roles. I kept it as quiet as possible and wore a headset. It’s definitely one of the benefits of working remote to be in charge of your own space.
But now that I work from my back office, with just me and my dog to worry about- do I need one?
3 Pros of Wearing a Headset to Online Meetings
Pro 1:Focused Listening
I can generally hear better with distractions from ambient noise. Having the headset on can allow me to really focus in on what is being said without worrying about hearing the guy next door mowing the lawn.
Pro 2: Voice Recognition
Not all computer microphones are created equal. My headset does a very good job at picking up my voice only and filtering out the ambient noise. This allows for smoother meetings overall.
Pro 3: Visual Cue
To the person on the other side of the computer I am sending the message that I am listening to them, and only them. It also sends a message to those at home that you are working- it’s like a “do not disturb” sign for your spouse, kids, or roommate.
3 Cons of Wearing A Headset to Online Meetings
Con 1: They look unnatural
I have noticed that my colleagues who do not wear a headset look overall freer and more unencumbered with their discussions. It’s more like they are talking with me naturally. This can promote better flow in the conversation.
Con 2: Annoying
If it’s hot at all in your office, then you might experience some unpleasant ear sweat. Or just wearing a headset all day can be fatiguing. Overall, it just seems more annoying than not having anything on your head at all.
Con 3: Getting in the way
If you are like me, I already have two monitors, a laptop, an iPad, mouse, keyboard and docking station taking up precious desk space. Do I need yet another peripheral?
Conclusion:
It’s up to you, your workflow, and what you like. For now, as my computer microphone is somewhat lacking, I will likely stick with a headset- but I hear we are supposed to have some quality microphones sent our way- in which case, I will gladly switch.