13 Jul Meeting transcripts in the world today
We are experts in all types of meeting transcripts, and with the shift from face-to-face meetings to virtual meetings, we have identified some ways finance professionals can enhance the quality of their records that will be beneficial to them now and, indeed, in the future.
We have over 13 years’ experience of processing top-quality transcripts – whether from audio of actual meetings or call reports dictated after that need to be transcribed – and we have learned a lot during this time about what constitutes a ‘good’ record that is both effective and valuable.
Do all online meeting tools have a transcription service?
Some do. Most that do employ speech-to-text functionality, but we’d advise you to check the security (see below) so you know how these applications and companies are recording and converting your meeting – and where your sound file or automated transcript is being stored. If they don’t record for you, or you are not happy from a data security point of view, then you can dictate the meeting notes after the call. Dictating after a meeting generally only takes a few minutes and captures vital information and next steps.
Tips for receiving a perfect transcript
Of paramount importance is organisation. If you are holding a virtual meeting with two or more people, have a clear agenda and leader. This might sound obvious and something one should exercise in any meeting. However, we often we hear the meeting start with no introductions or the leader not stating the purpose of the meeting.
Ensure every meeting has a clear, defined conclusion and follow-up, as again, a non-face-to-face environment could be the enemy of clarity when it comes to ‘what happens next’ if this isn’t accounted for. If you need next steps accounted for, for legal or regulatory purposes, or actions from a board meeting, for instance, to adhere to SM&CR regulations, this is key.
Finally, as you would after every meeting, complete minutes. If this is something that is an additional time drain, then use a confidential dictation and meeting transcript service like VoiceNotes, who will deliver a word-perfect, fully proofed record of your meeting that you can circulate with confidence to the attendees and other interested parties.
What are the common mistakes people make using them?
In our experience of working with lengthy meeting transcripts, particularly when the sole focus is on the voices coming through, we often find that a poor set-up leads to some attendees not being heard clearly, be that due to the quality of the recording device or their location and background noise. Speakers talking over one another is another hindrance when capturing what is being said. In a virtual environment, saying, ‘Sorry, I didn’t hear so and so’ isn’t as easy as in a physical setting. This can further contribute to a loss of cohesion.
Finally, another common mistake is neglecting to write up meeting notes from virtual meetings. Believing that a ‘recording’ of the meeting, audio or visual, is enough. A formal overview or a transcript is required to adhere to mandatory compliance requirements.
What features should you be looking for?
Security and reliability: If you are using an internet-based tool, consider whether it’s safe from a confidentiality point of view. The financial sector is incredibly strict where data protection is concerned. Check the app is not automatically set to sync. Check the recordings in the Cloud.
If you choose a tool that can generate meeting transcripts itself, again, consider data control and sensitivity. You are, in effect, giving it permission to access your content. Many of these tools and apps lack this level of security required by industries such as finance.
If it helps, click here for the security measures we have in place.
What security issues should I be considering when looking for a transcription company specialising in meeting transcripts?
For every meeting, you should ensure you know where your data is being streamed. Or, where it’s being held when using these tools. Check whether this meets your company’s compliance code, especially for meetings pertaining to sensitive subject matter. Put password protection on when having a live meeting or call.
If you need a transcription of meeting, choose an ISO-accredited transcription company specialising in the financial sector already who can complete an Information Security questionnaire and clearly evidence that they are looking after your data.
For more details about our transcription service and how it works, click here.
Here are some further articles that may be of interest:
Tips for recording Investment Management Committee Board Meetings
For details on how to record a meeting note for MiFID II.
‘From Regulation To Recession‘. If you’d like to read this article.
For testimonials and other banks and investment firms who use VoiceNotes Ltd for financial dictation and financial transcription.
Fintech, Hedge Funds and Online Meetings
Transcribing Zoom Meetings, click here.
A transcription service for Human Resources
Please get in touch with any questions or to start your FREE trial – info@voicenotes.co.uk / 0207 117 0066.
