SSMT #73 –Krisp: Can you hear me now?

Let me guess: you’re reading this as you eat lunch (leftovers) at your desk (in the spare bedroom) while attired in business VERY casual (sweatpants) and prepping for your next meeting (over Zoom).

I’m right there with you. We all are.

A whole year of remote working has forced us all to adapt and may have changed office dynamics forever...but it’s also inspired amazing tools we’ll be using long after the pandemic ends –like Krisp.

What is Krisp?

Magical software I could no longer imagine living without.

A lengthier definition: Krisp is an AI-powered noise-canceling app that filters your microphone virtually to remove extraneous sounds, leaving only your voice...and a heightened sense of professionalism.

We’ve all been on Zoom when sirens <WEEEE—OHHHHHH!!!> pass, <RUFF RUFF RUFF> go nuts <RUFF> in the <RUFF> background, children interru<MOMMMMMMM!!>, or or echoes echoes just just drive you crazy --it’s embarrassing for the speaker and distracting to the call.

Not anymore.

Krisp renders your workspace silent and your voice crystal clear, letting participants focus on the topic and your talent rather than the TV in the background.

Sound too good to be true? That’s what I thought until I tried it.

After a colleague recommended the app(thanks Maddy Martin at Smith.ai!), I signed up for a trial and put it to the test by joining an office meeting from a local bar-and-grill. Loud music, clanging plates, and a row of arcade games created a chaotic cacophony from which I would never typically work...but my assistant swore she heard only my voice. Even when the waitress came for my order (gourmet grilled cheese -yum), only my side of the interaction was audible on Zoom.

I was thoroughly impressed (by the program and the sandwich).No. I was blown away.

Who is it for?

Anyone currently participating in an endless procession of conference calls without perpetual access to quiet spaces or acoustic studios. Anyone who’s been shamed by their sound quality or just wants to present more professionally.

In short –EVERYONE, especially the 200 million Zoom users, up from 10 million pre-pandemic.

How do I get started?

Krisp offers a free personal plan with limited minutes –give it a try, and if you’re like me, you’ll be upgrading your whole team in short order.

We’ll explore the app more over the next couple of tips.

For now, just remember: If you desire clear sound on Zoom –try Krisp.

If you desire gooey cheese in Ohio –try Melt Bar & Grill.

Two life-changing tips in one post: you’re welcome!