Employee Appreciation Day offers a unique opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our teams. Having led Employee Appreciation Day initiatives when I used to work for California State, I've seen firsthand the positive impact of genuinely celebrating our workforce. It wasn't just another day at the office; it was a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and recognition. With employees now being both remote, in the office or somewhere in between (I wrote this article while waiting to get my cars tires rotated) Here are five impactful ways to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day that can leave a lasting impression on your team:
Nothing says "thank you" quite like an assortment of good food. Whether it's a nice lunch, a wonderful breakfast, or even a food truck fiesta, providing a meal for your team is a gesture that universally resonates. For remote members of the team, you can use food delivery apps to make it special just be sure to ensure you understand everyones dietary restrictions and it is not a surprise. In the past I have emailed out gift cards for popular food delivery apps that way everyone can choose and then had our lunch in the conference room. It's not just about the food; it's about breaking bread together, sharing stories, and enjoying a moment of relaxation. This communal experience fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation across the team. People love food, just be sure to be inclusive so everyone feels welcome.
Games and team-building exercises aren't just fun; they're a conduit for strengthening relationships and fostering team spirit. From escape rooms (virtual or physical) to trivia contests about your company, team members or industry, these activities can boost morale and encourage collaboration. They also offer a break from the daily routine, allowing creativity and laughter to flow freely. We used to play a online name guessing game with our entire team since we had about 120 people and the team loved it.
Contests can add an element of excitement and friendly competition to Employee Appreciation Day. Whether it's a talent show, a creative project related to your business, or a sustainability challenge, contests with meaningful rewards can significantly enhance engagement. Prizes could range from extra vacation days, donations made in the winner's name to their charity of choice or the worlds coolest Mute button (hint hint). These rewards not only celebrate achievements but also align with personal and professional values. Just be sure to make it fair between the participants. We would host a meeting at the end of the day with a cheesy/funny awards ceremony.
Flexibility as a Token of Appreciation: Flexibility is highly valued by almost all employees. Offering remote workdays for on-site staff or more flexible scheduling for remote workers can be an excellent way to show appreciation. This recognizes the importance of work-life balance and trusts in their ability to manage their workload effectively.
Perhaps one of the most powerful forms of appreciation is actively listening to employees' ideas and concerns—and then acting on that feedback. This demonstrates respect for their opinions and a commitment to continuous improvement. We used to highlight great ideas and how they were implemented over the last year as both a way to highlight the team members and also to encourage new ideas.
In the digital age, a personal or handwritten note can make a big impact. Taking the time to write personalized appreciation notes to each team member can deeply convey your gratitude. Just be sure to mail them out in time for remote employees. Highlight specific achievements or qualities that you value in them. This personal touch can make anyone feel truly seen and valued, fostering a culture of recognition and respect. This is also a great time to gift some company perks or swag, something that connects them back to the workplace (once again maybe a custom engraved MuteMe lol)
Investing in your employees' growth is a powerful way to show appreciation. Offering workshops, courses, or seminars on Employee Appreciation Day can demonstrate your commitment to their development and career progression. Whether it's leadership training, technical skills enhancement, or soft skills improvement, these learning opportunities can empower your team and contribute to their professional journey. This can also be a day when other positive developments are announced.
Employee Appreciation Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact on your team's morale and job satisfaction. By incorporating any of these or others, you can create a memorable experience that celebrates and uplifts every member of your team. Remember, the key to a successful Employee Appreciation Day lies in genuine, thoughtful gestures that resonate with your unique workforce. Let's make appreciation a cornerstone of our workplace culture, not just on Employee Appreciation Day, but every day.
]]>Recent changes implemented by Microsoft to its Teams application have raised significant concerns among users who depend on accessibility features for an equitable user experience. Specifically, Microsoft has altered the identifiers for the microphone's mute and unmute functionality from descriptive labels to a generic identifier. This modification drastically affects users with visual impairments by limiting their ability to discern the current state of their microphone. This change also disrupts the functionality of auxiliary devices like MuteMe, which is designed to provide a physical mute button for online communication platforms.
Detailed Overview of the Issue In the past, Microsoft Teams used descriptive identifiers such as "Mic Muted" and "Mic Unmuted," enabling screen reading technologies to inform users of their microphone status accurately. These identifiers mirrored the visual cues available to sighted users, such as different microphone icons or pop-up text boxes, ensuring a comparable experience for all users.
However, the recent update to Teams replaces these descriptive identifiers with a single, ambiguous "Mic" ID, removing the ability to obtain this critical status information through assistive technologies. The versions affected include 24004.1304.2655.7488, 24033.807.2695.8996, and 24033.803.2689.2248 on both macOS and Windows platforms.
MuteMe's Response and User Guidance MuteMe, whose functionality is directly impacted by these changes, has undertaken several measures to mitigate the situation:
Direct Engagement with Microsoft: MuteMe has reached out to both the technical and legal departments at Microsoft, advocating for the reinstatement of the previous, more accessible design. The discussions emphasize the necessity of accessibility for compliance with governmental contracts and the broader importance for users who rely on these features.
Technical Adjustments and Workarounds: In the interim, MuteMe is exploring the use of Microsoft Teams' API to maintain synchronization capabilities for mute/unmute events, albeit this solution is currently viable only for users subscribed to paid Teams plans. As a temporary workaround, MuteMe recommends that users disable Level 3 sync within the MuteMe settings specifically for Teams. This action ensures that users can still mute and unmute their microphones via the operating system controls, even though the synchronization with Teams' mute/unmute notifications is temporarily diminished.
Community Action and Advocacy: MuteMe urges its user base to provide feedback directly to Microsoft, highlighting the critical importance of restoring full accessibility features. Users can submit feedback through the "Help" section in Teams, advocating for the need for descriptive controls over the microphone's mute/unmute states to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Future Steps and Solutions MuteMe is actively working on an update to incorporate Microsoft's API for a more robust integration, aiming to release this enhancement within the coming week. The team is committed to transparent communication with its users, providing updates and support throughout this transition.
Conclusion The change by Microsoft represents a significant step back in accessibility, affecting not only individuals with visual impairments but also the broader ecosystem of devices and applications designed to support diverse user needs. MuteMe is dedicated to navigating these challenges, ensuring that its users can continue to benefit from effective and inclusive communication solutions.
]]>Exciting news from the MuteMe team: we're rolling out an updated line of devices designed not just for sleek functionality but also for a more substantial, professional feel. Here’s what’s new and improved:
A More Substantial Feel
We’ve listened to your feedback for a device that feels more substantial in hand. Our new devices (shipping now for enterprise bulk customers who get laser engraving) are now 26 grams heavier, adding stability and a premium feel without compromising portability. This thoughtful adjustment ensures the device feels significant but remains easy to carry and ship.
Eco-friendly, Sleek Packaging
In line with our commitment to innovation and sustainability, we’re thrilled to introduce our redesigned packaging. It’s lighter, eliminates the need for a hanging tag, and features a cleaner look. This update means less waste, reduced shipping weight, and a more elegant unboxing experience, reflecting our dedication to environmental responsibility and design excellence.
Enhanced Experience for Everyone
This enhancement isn’t just for our corporate clients; we’re extending these updates across all devices within the next six to nine months. Our goal is to ensure every user enjoys the premium feel of MuteMe, whether it’s for individual use or equipping an entire team. Right now they are only shipping for enterprise customers who opt for laser engraving. Within two months they will be shipping for all enterprise customers. Then within six months they will be shipping for all orders on our website (muteme.com) and then within nine months we anticipate we will be shipping from everywhere including Amazon.
Sustainable, Smart Design
Our slight increase in device weight is carefully balanced with the use of environmentally conscious materials. We’re committed to minimizing our carbon footprint while maximizing functionality and user satisfaction. This approach ensures our products are not only better to use but also better for our planet.
What’s Next?
We’re excited for you to experience the improved feel and functionality of our devices, alongside our sleek, new packaging. Whether you’re equipping your team or enhancing your own virtual meeting setup, these updates promise to elevate your MuteMe experience with stability, professionalism, and a commitment to sustainability.
Stay tuned for the rollout and get ready to experience the difference, both in your hands and in your meetings.
Here's to embracing a future of empowered communication, thoughtfully designed for you and the environment.
]]>The exciting news for MuteMe is that we have left the garage and moved into a new office and warehouse! This expansion is the result of our growing business and demand for our products. Our new facility provides us with all the space we need to continue to develop and grow.
Over the last two years, we had relied on 3rd party companies (3PL) for warehouse and fulfillment needs. This was great at the time since we were a small Kickstarter company and didn't have the space or manpower to do this work ourselves. But over the course of two years, the garage and other various rooms at the house just didn't cut it anymore. The garage was bursting at the seams with inventory and packaging, and with another large order of devices on the way, we knew it was time to find a place to expand.
The new facility has office space for our team, a research and development (R&D) space for product design and prototyping, a 3D printing lab for rapid product development, a video production studio for content creation, fulfillment, and engraving space, and warehouse space for product storage and shipping. In addition to the existing break room, we are even thinking of adding a small relaxation room with a couch, TV, and fully stocked mini-fridge.
We are very excited about our move and are looking forward to what the future holds. Our new facility provides us with the resources to create more products, offer better services, and continue to grow as a company. We are confident that our new office will help us achieve our goals and continue to provide the highest quality products and services to our customers
]]>Remote work has the potential to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce by eliminating geographical limitations that can be a barrier to employment for some individuals. When companies adopt a remote work policy, they open up job opportunities to a wider pool of candidates, regardless of their location. This can increase the diversity of the workforce, as it allows companies to attract top talent from around the world.
For example, remote work allows for people with disabilities or those who live in rural areas to have equal access to job opportunities. It also allows for those who have caregiving responsibilities, such as parents or those who take care of elderly relatives, to balance their work and personal life more effectively.
In addition, remote work can also create a more inclusive workforce by breaking down barriers such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. For example, when employees are not restricted by geographic location, they may be able to find jobs in areas where the cost of living is lower, which can help to reduce the gender pay gap and improve economic mobility.
Remote work can also make it easier for companies to recruit and retain employees from underrepresented groups. When employees are not restricted by geographic location, they may be more likely to find jobs that align with their skills and interests, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or other factors.
It's important for companies to have a remote work policy that is inclusive and fair for all employees. This can be achieved by providing the necessary tools and resources for remote workers, and having clear guidelines and protocols for communication, collaboration, and performance evaluation.
]]>Working remotely has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. There are many benefits to working remotely, including increased flexibility, cost savings, and improved work-life balance.
One of the biggest benefits of working remotely is increased flexibility. With the ability to work from anywhere with an internet connection, remote workers have the freedom to choose their work location, schedule, and even the type of work they do. This flexibility can lead to improved productivity and job satisfaction, as well as a better work-life balance.
Another benefit of working remotely is cost savings. Without the need to commute, remote workers can save money on transportation costs, parking fees, and work wardrobe expenses. In addition, remote workers can also save on costs associated with maintaining a physical office, such as rent and utilities.
Working remotely can also improve work-life balance. Without the need to commute, remote workers can have more time for other activities, such as spending time with family and friends, pursuing hobbies, or volunteering. In addition, the flexibility of remote work can also make it easier to take care of family and personal responsibilities, such as picking up children from school or attending doctor's appointments.
Remote work can also lead to improved mental and physical well-being. Without the stress of a daily commute, remote workers have less exposure to traffic, pollution, and other environmental stressors. Additionally, remote workers have more control over their work environment, which can lead to reduced stress levels and improved overall well-being.
Moreover, remote work allows for a more diverse and inclusive workforce, as it eliminates geographical limitations that can be a barrier to employment for some people. Additionally, it allows companies to attract top talent from around the world, regardless of location.
Working remotely has many benefits, including increased flexibility, cost savings, improved work-life balance, improved mental and physical well-being, and a more diverse and inclusive workforce. With the advancements in technology, remote work has become a viable option for many companies and employees, and it's likely that the trend will continue to grow in the future.
]]>Working from home can be a great way to increase productivity and flexibility, but it can also come with its own set of distractions. These distractions can range from household chores to social media, and they can make it difficult to focus on work tasks.
One of the most common distractions when working from home is household chores. Without the separation of a physical office, it can be easy to get sidetracked by the need to clean, cook, or do laundry. These tasks can seem small but they can quickly add up and eat into work time.
Another common distraction is social media. With easy access to the internet, it can be tempting to check social media accounts and get lost in a scroll. Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it can also be a major time-suck.
TV and streaming services can also be a major distraction. Without the structure of a typical workday, it can be easy to get caught up in watching a new show or movie.
Technology in general can be a distraction, from constant notifications on your phone, to software and device updates that require your attention.
Other distractions can include children and pets, who may need attention and care during the workday.
To combat these distractions, it's essential to set boundaries and establish a dedicated workspace. It can be helpful to set specific work hours and to let others in the household know that during those hours you are not to be disturbed. It's also important to take regular breaks and to schedule in time for household tasks, social media, and other distractions.
Using apps and tools that can block websites and apps, or track time and usage can also be helpful.
In conclusion, working from home can come with its own set of distractions that can make it difficult to stay focused on work tasks. To combat these distractions, it's essential to set boundaries, establish a dedicated workspace, and to take regular breaks. Additionally, using apps and tools that can block websites and apps or track time and usage can also be helpful. With a little bit of effort and discipline, it's possible to overcome these distractions and be productive while working from home.
]]>Working from home has become the new normal for many people since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. While it offers benefits such as increased flexibility and the ability to avoid a commute, it also presents a number of challenges.
One of the biggest difficulties of working from home is the lack of separation between work and personal life. Without a physical separation, it can be difficult to "clock out" at the end of the day and switch off from work. This can lead to increased stress and burnout as well as difficulty in disconnecting and enjoying leisure time.
Another difficulty is the lack of face-to-face interactions and the feeling of isolation. Remote work can make it harder to build and maintain relationships with coworkers and supervisors, which can lead to feelings of disconnection and loneliness. Additionally, virtual meetings and communication can be less effective than in-person interactions, which can make it harder to build trust and get things done.
Working from home also brings the challenge of creating and maintaining a productive work environment. Without a designated office space, it can be easy to get distracted by household chores, TV, and other distractions. Additionally, it can be hard to maintain a consistent work schedule, and it's easy to fall into the trap of working longer hours than usual.
Another difficulty is the technology aspect, it can be frustrating to deal with the technical difficulties of working remotely such as poor internet connections, video conferencing glitches, and software compatibility issues.
Working from home can present a number of difficulties, including the lack of separation between work and personal life, feelings of isolation, lack of face-to-face interactions, and technical difficulties. It's important for individuals to establish clear boundaries and set up a dedicated workspace, schedule regular breaks, and make an effort to stay connected with colleagues and friends. Companies can also play a role in addressing these challenges by providing support and resources to help employees adjust to remote work, fostering a sense of community, and promoting open communication.
]]>The debate of whether or not to return to the office has been ongoing since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some companies have decided to continue with a work from home model, while others have begun to bring employees back to the office. Both options have their own set of pros and cons, and there is no clear consensus on which is the best approach.
One of the main arguments for returning to the office is that it promotes collaboration and teamwork. Being in the same physical space allows employees to easily communicate and work together on projects. It also allows for impromptu meetings and brainstorming sessions, which can lead to more creative and innovative ideas. Additionally, returning to the office can also improve employee morale, as many people have reported feelings of isolation and loneliness while working from home.
On the other hand, the work from home model has its own set of benefits. For one, it allows for increased flexibility and work-life balance. Employees can work from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have a reliable internet connection. This is especially beneficial for those who have children or other caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, working from home can save employees money on transportation and other costs associated with commuting.
Additionally, there is a concern that returning to the office could negatively impact employees who have been more productive and efficient while working from home. Companies should take into account the fact that some employees may have been more productive working from home and it would be a setback to force them to return to the office.
The debate of whether or not to return to the office is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. Companies should take into account the needs and preferences of their employees, as well as the safety protocols and guidelines set by health authorities. Ultimately, it's important for companies to find a balance between promoting collaboration and teamwork while also providing flexibility and a safe working environment for their employees.
]]>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sacramento-based startup MuteMe named a "Startup to Watch" in 2023 by the Sacramento Business Journal
El Dorado Hills, CA - MuteMe, a pioneering technology startup focused on virtual productivity, has been named one of the "Startups to Watch" in 2023 by the Sacramento Business Journal. The annual list recognizes the most promising and innovative companies in the region, and MuteMe is proud to be included among the esteemed group of honorees.
Founded in 2020, MuteMe offers a unique technology that is designed to help users mute and unmute themselves during virtual meetings with just a click of a button, ensuring that background noise and interruptions are kept to a minimum. With MuteMe, users can focus on the conversation at hand without worrying about disrupting the meeting with extraneous noises. The company's innovative solution has already gained widespread acclaim and attracted the attention of major players in the tech industry.
"We are thrilled to be recognized by the Sacramento Business Journal as a Startup to Watch," said Parm Dhoot, MuteMe's CEO. "It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and we are excited to continue making a positive impact in the world of remote communication."
MuteMe is currently in the process of expanding its offerings and plans to introduce new features that will make virtual communication even more seamless and efficient for its users. The company is also in talks with potential partners and investors as it looks to further scale its operations.
The Sacramento Business Journal's "Startups to Watch" list is widely recognized as a valuable resource for those interested in the local startup scene, and MuteMe's inclusion on the list is a strong indication of the company's promising future.
For more information about MuteMe and its technology, please visit the company's website at muteme.com
Media Contact: Tye Davis, CMO/CFO, tye@muteme.com, 530-237-7186
]]>MuteMe is a tool that is making waves in the world of virtual meetings. Recently featured on CBS Sunday Morning with David Pogue (Techno Claus), MuteMe is designed to help users mute and unmute themselves during virtual meetings with just a click of a button.
In the age of remote work, virtual meetings have become a staple for many businesses and organizations. However, these meetings can often be plagued by background noise and interruptions, making it difficult for attendees to hear and participate in the conversation.
Enter MuteMe. This intuitive tool allows users to easily mute and unmute themselves during virtual meetings, ensuring that background noise and interruptions are kept to a minimum. With MuteMe, users can focus on the conversation at hand without worrying about disrupting the meeting with extraneous noises.
One of the standout features of MuteMe is its simplicity. The tool is incredibly easy to use, requiring no additional software or technical know-how. Simply click the mute or unmute button and you're good to go.
Additionally, MuteMe is compatible with a wide range of virtual meeting platforms, including popular options like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. This means that regardless of which platform your organization uses, you can easily integrate MuteMe into your virtual meetings.
Overall, MuteMe is a valuable tool for anyone who regularly participates in virtual meetings. Its simple interface and wide platform compatibility make it easy to use, and its ability to minimize background noise and interruptions ensures that meetings run smoothly and efficiently. If you want to improve the quality of your virtual meetings, be sure to check out MuteMe!
Ultrafast Improved Capacitive Touch
One of the things that users told us over and over again was that they wished the device was faster when tapping on the button (especially if the device was sitting idle for a while). This was only possible with a hardware update since the limiting factor was the touch sensor in the device. This new device now registers touch in as little as 50ms and you can truly just tap it like you would any modern capacitive device.
Improved USB Module
We are now using USB 2.0 vs USB 1.1 for communication, this standard is newer faster and more compatible with hubs, and cables. With the new device you can use any USB C cable vs just being able to use certain ones.
Works better with macOS
macOS is a little more sensitive when it comes to USB communication and the new module mentioned above also does a better job at working with macOS.
Faster Overall Device
The newer device operates at a much faster speed and has more onboard memory so the lighting effects are much smoother and the initial bootup time has been reduced by a factor of 10x.
Better Sleep Modes and Wakeup
We removed the internal power LEDs. So many customer told us that the internal power led that was always on would bother them since the device and computer was sometimes in a shared space. This was a simple change but this led has been removed. The device also handles sleep and wakeup events better.
Smaller Logo / Smaller Packaging
The new device now has a smaller logo and smaller packaging. Our original packaging was mostly air and was the the most efficient. The new packaging has the same style but cuts the size in almost half.
]]>
These past two years, much has changed in our everyday lives and how we go about our days. The world came to a halt once the pandemic hit, and we found ourselves balancing work or learning from home with our personal time, all the while being restricted on where we could go. It can be viewed as an opportunity where we were able to spend more time with our families that we hadn’t had pre-Pandemic. It’s been said“Necessity is the mother of invention,” but it could be said “Necessity is the mother of adaption”, and this is what this pandemic has taught us.
Working from home has now taken on a new identity, and accelerated the movement to making work more accessible from anywhere.Tasks that once were slated for after work now have become a part of the work day, like picking up groceries or making it to an appointment. Things like changing a baby's diaper, dogs barking, children being actively around while working from home all while we take our meetings. It was challenging to separate work life from regular home life as many were inexperienced in doing their work from home. In fact, according to a survey many men and women started to work from their washrooms, while working from home so they can avoid disturbances and work in peace. Nevertheless, you don’t have to resort to working from your washroom to escape being disrupted, and we’re here to help offer an alternative to being able to maintain your work environment. We know that work from home is here to stay. Two new surveys have shown that employers have accepted that remote work is here to stay. Giants such as Amazon and Twitter have offered the flexibility to work from home on a permanent basis. With companies realizing the shifting work landscape, we have to brace ourselves for this permanent shift in work culture in order to best realize the most efficient work environments for people around the world.
Here are some productivity hacks to not be left behind:
Tip # 1: Take out time to go for a 10 minute walk
Ten minute walks outside in nature have been shown to have a very significant impact on your overall health. These walk’s can refresh your mind and also take your mind away from all the stress and the disturbances. It gives you the opportunity to give time for yourself where you can destress and be more centered.Studies show that these ten minute walks can reduce stress and anxiety, aid in better sleep, which results in increased productivity. Take out 10 mins for this activity!
Tip # 2: Have a proper sleep schedule
Being a parent is hard, especially while working from home as you balance the care of your children and focus on your work. Having the right sleep schedule is really vital to how you’ll be able to function the following day. The recommended sleep time for adults is 7-8 hours. Hence, make sure you get enough rest and sleep to be so energetic that you don’t have to rely on your coffee or energy drinks.
Tip # 3: Take some time out for your hobbies/passions
Everyone has some hobby/passion that they would like to spend their time on.Spending time on your hobbies will take your mind off the stress of your work into something you really enjoy. This will increase your productivity as it refreshes your mind and it doesn’t feel like work to you. Taking time on your hobbies has also been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep and also improve our social connections.
Tip # 4: Meditation
This is no secret that this ancient practice is hailed as one of the keys to success for many billionaires. In fact, many of the big companies have invested in creating mediation rooms designated for meditation only. Meditation helps to declutter your mind and just focus on the things that really matter. I like to call this time “me-time”, since this is the only time I get to introspect myself in peace. It also helps in calming your mind, which is extremely useful for increasing your focus on the task at hand. In a world where mental health awareness is increasing day by day, it's no surprise people are taking to this ancient practice for increasing their mental health. Take out some time (even 2 minutes) to meditate, as it will pay off dividends in perpetuity.
Tip # 5: Focus on quality, rather than quantity
Nowadays, many people are focussed on “hustle culture” and the quantity of hours worked in a week, rather than the output produced in that time frame. You will see so many people gloat about how they worked “80 hours the previous week”, but there is much more effectiveness in the quality of that many hours being worked, as opposed to just the amount. This might work for some people, but it often doesn't work for the majority. Instead of getting more work done, it deteriorates their current work. It is really important to focus on the quality of work rather than the quantity, since spending ten hours wisely is better than spending sixteen hours to produce the same output.
]]>Here are the steps and settings (assuming you have already downloaded the MuteMe app):
Language Settings:
Zoom works best in English (multi-language support coming soon). Right click on the Zoom icon in the icon tray < switch languages < English.
Zoom default microphone: Ensure the correct default microphone is selected.
Zoom Settings for Windows/Linux:
Go to Settings -> General -> Select 'Always show meeting controls'. Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select 'Restore Default' on bottom right.
Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select box to Enable Global Shortcut for 'Change Focus to Zoom Meeting Controls'.
Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select box to Enable Global Shortcut for 'Mute/Unmute My Audio'.
Zoom Settings for MacOS:
Go to Settings -> General -> Select 'Always show meeting controls'.
Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select 'Restore Default' on bottom right.
Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select box to Enable Global Shortcut for 'Mute/Unmute My Audio'.
Go to Keyboard Shortcuts -> Select box to Enable Global Shortcut for 'Always Show Meeting Controls'.
macOS Security and Privacy Settings:
Go to Security & Privacy -> Accessibility -> Select ‘MuteMe’.
Go to Security & Privacy -> Select ‘Automation’ -> Select ‘MuteMe-Client’ -> Make sure everything under ‘MuteMe-Client’ is checked.
]]>MuteMe Mini - We've worked tirelessly to try and get the entire order shipped out to us (from our Manufacturer) prior to Chinese New Year. we will begin shipping by end of February. You can find the updated timeline now on the main page (a new feature of Kickstarter).
Like other businesses, we continue to feel the global supply chain whiplash caused by COVID. Thank you to all our customers for being patient, particularly with small businesses. We are taking even more aggressive steps to optimize this process going into 2022; we can’t seem to stay in stock for more than a month or two at a time.
It the four weeks since we last updated you, MuteMe's have been selling like CRAZY and we have inventory for the next thirty days (get your orders in asap!)
We've secured additional chips for the next order
When restarting the MuteMe app, when the bottom right of your app turns orange, that means there is an update. Don't worry if you miss it will update automatically when you restart the application.
For details on what has been updated, visit download.muteme.com.
The global chip shortage resulted in our team having to quickly redesign the product right as we were finishing our Kickstarter campaign. As we were getting ready to place an order for about 10,000 microcontrollers, the worldwide supply for controllers goes from 40,000 units to less than 1000 units all over the course of two days. We don't know if this was panic buying as customers see their supply chains being impacted and then they order proactively or if this was just a fluke and some large customer decided to buy up the worldwide supply. Our best estimate is it was a little bit of both. Companies and suppliers monitor the worldwide supply of components as they see inventory dwindling everyone attempts to buy up additional reserves as well.
This last year we also ran into issues due to a very small number of large customers buying up all of the available inventory. The second time we ran out of inventory it was primarily driven by a large sale of devices to Staples. You're a brand new company and Staples the national retailer with over 1000 stores reaches out and wants to carry your product. What do you do? You sell! right? As we were in the midst of fulfilling our KickStarter orders we got a purchase order from Staples and ended up fulfilling all orders including the Staples PO but then only had about a two-week supply of devices left and sold out. Add to the fact that when you sell to a large retailer the payment terms are not immediate (we can't disclose but they typically range between 30 days and 60 days) and the issue becomes apparent. We can't disclose but shout out to Staples for giving us really good terms and being a really good partner.
This last reason is my favorite. Don't underestimate the power of mass media. Due to the overwhelming success of our SharkTank appearance we ended up running out of inventory that should've lasted about 2 to 3 months in about 15 days.
We had talked with multiple companies that had been on SharkTank previously to learn about the impacts that a brand could face immediately after airing. They all said that we could see upwards of 40,000 to 80,000 visitors on our website within a handful of seconds after airing and would see residual traffic for about a week. After much anticipation we watched the episode air live on the east coast (first time it airs) and our website traffic was not as high as we had estimated or hoped.
We decided not to place an order immediately since the traffic was lower than even our conservative estimates. Then just as expected residual or traffic was high over the next few days.
But then something unexpected happened, the traffic was not slowing down. The advice that we had gotten was from companies that had aired on the show between seasons six and ten which is approximately three to seven years ago. TV watching behavior has completely changed from that time, people don't watch TV live like they used to, and there are so many streaming services providing on demand content. We had not accounted for that. That watching behavior resulted in increased traffic and us placing an order later than we should have. We still would have run out of inventory but we could have saved five to ten days on the backend.
We learned very early on that we couldn't rest on our laurels or rely on a steady supply chain in order for our business to continue to grow and thrive. We learned both proactively and reactively that any company that wants to be successful in the future is going to need a clear-cut strategy to mitigate and deliver regardless of the challenges.
With the steps outlined above, we are confident that we can mitigate most future supply chain disruptions and continue to deliver products users want as quickly and efficiently as possible.
]]>MuteMe Mini is an illuminated USB stick style mute button for virtual calls that increases productivity, boosts confidence and decreases interruptions. The patent-pending device is designed to recognize if you're on or off mute by using intelligent software that works with any computer to control your microphone.
Support us on Kickstarter now to get yours at our Kickstarter exclusive price!
]]>
MuteMe™ Combines Intelligent Software with a sleek, Illuminated Mute Button that Actively Improves Virtual Meetings.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – October 1, 2021 –
MuteMe™ Co-founder/CEO Parm Dhoot and Co-founder/CFO Tye Davis pitch their patent-pending helpful work-from-home product that increases productivity, boosts confidence and decreases interruptions on ABC’s Shark Tank, October 15th at 8pm EST/PST. The episode will feature sharks Mark Cuban, Daymond John, Kevin O’Leary (Mr. Wonderful), Lori Greiner and guest shark Peter Jones, business tycoon and original Dragon from BBC’s “Dragon’s Den” (the U.K. version of “Shark Tank”).
MuteMe launched on December 4th as a Kickstarter campaign raising over $300,000 through Kickstarter and Indiegogo before becoming commercially available on e-commerce and at Staples stores nationwide. MuteMe is the first physical mute device solely made for simple visual recognition of being on or off mute by using intelligent software that works with MacOS and Windows operating systems to control any microphone.
“Virtual meetings and online classes are meant to emulate being physically together but current tools are still in their infancy,” said Parm Dhoot, co-founder and CEO of MuteMe. “With the recent pandemic accelerating the remote model, the adoption of video conferencing tools has presented new challenges, especially for those who were given a shorter runway of time to adopt. We wanted a simple, easy way to enable the flow of meetings and classes to replicate being in-person without the constant delays and pauses that reduce participation and increase frustration.”
Remote work isn’t anything new, but the amount of remote workers has increased significantly in this past year due to the global pandemic. With such a sharp increase in remote workers, adoption of the “new” virtual work environment happened with very little lead time. With house members all being in one location, the combination of virtual work-from-home and parent-from-home (for many, not all), became common. We have seen the fallout through national headlines of a failure to mute or turn off a video when making some very ill-advised decisions during virtual calls. These often result in negative repercussions to an individual's career. Frequent video conferencing problems have been and continue to be the cause of embarrassment, frustration, and anxiety due to a lack of situational awareness, the need to multitask, and frequent interruptions by those around you.
How does MuteMe Help?
MuteMe addresses the difficulties of remote working and learning by enabling a student or employee to better control their environment at home. It was built to provide an easier way to avoid embarrassment, increase our confidence when multitasking, and communicate with family if we are busy or not. MuteMe allows work to be uninterrupted and boosts your productivity by letting house-mates know you’re busy without having to say a single word. It’s simple, has a clean aesthetic, and is purposely easy to install to eliminate any technology adoption difficulties.
From work to school, the world is quickly shifting to making remote work and learning more common. MuteMe is one of the first tools to improve efficiency for virtual students and employees at home! With its simple operation, it is easily adaptable to all ages - making it perfect for distant learners, remote workers and any other virtual meeting user.
Confidently take virtual calls without second guessing if you're on mute or not with the MuteMe. With just a simple tap, toggle yourself on and off mute and avoid the dreaded “You’re on Mute!” or “Please Mute Yourself” in virtual calls for good. MuteMe indicates instantaneously whether you’re on mute with red and green visual toggles, and takes away the stress that often comes with virtual meetings.
MuteMe is currently available now on muteme.com or Staples stores nationwide.
For more information, download the press kit here.
About MuteMe LLC
MuteMe LLC was founded in 2020 by Parm Dhoot, Tye Davis, Handeep Kaur, Brittany Davis, and Pavan Purewal. Operating across the Greater Northern California area, the MuteMe team is currently designing next-generation technology that empowers users to take control of their virtual meetings. MuteMe has done over $500,000 in sales including shipping over 20,000 devices to-date.
For more information, visit their website at http://muteme.com.
Press Contact
MuteMe Team
brittany@muteme.com
925.785.7272
]]>When reflecting back on the acceleration of WFH awareness the Pandemic has brought, it has shed more light on how businesses and entrepreneurs can operate successfully from home while continuing to have a work-life balance that best fits their lifestyle. So, working from home is hard, but it brings much more opportunity as I can both be a mom and business owner, and not have to choose one.
]]>Hello MuteMe champions,
It’s been a little over a month since our last update. We’ve been busy:
Thanks to everyone around the globe for being a champion of our startup!
Here’s what's new (for details on each topic, see below):
Inventory
Custom Engraving
New Product Peek!
Business Update
New Software Update v0.6.1 (released 8/16) Includes:
We are tracking 51 unique fixes and feature requests and working on a number of different fixes and features for upcoming releases, including (but not limited to):
This list isn’t everything, we have plenty of other requests which are in the pipeline and we will keep you updated in the future. We are moving to a two week release cycle for software updates to help bring improvements to you faster instead of bundling multiple things in a single release.
Survey
Where we Need Help - Expanding Our Team
Shipping to Remaining Customers
If any of the problems that should have been resolved persist, or you want to say hello, please email us at support@muteme.com
Thank you for helping to bring MuteMe to the market in record time. Stay tuned as we continue to make improvements to your device and help make virtual conferencing a better experience in our rapidly changing world.
We will be sending out monthly updates as we make improvements.
Talk to you soon!
MuteMe Team (Parm, Handeep, Tye, Brittany, & Pavan)
]]>We are excited to announce all Kickstarter orders for backers that filled out their surveys and provided address information have been shipped.
Indiegogo and MuteMe.com Orders
We have already started fulfilling orders for our Indiegogo backers and those that placed an order directly on our e-commerce site.
Software Updates
Thank you so much for your support, feedback, and patience in the middle of this pandemic as work around the clock getting these devices shipped. Along with flashing, packaging, and shipping, our team has been hard at work to also address customer questions and feature requests. Software v0.5.0 has been released! In this update, you will find the following:
We are continuously refining our software and adding new features so keep an eye out for a little orange button in the bottom right of the MuteMe app -- that will let you know when a new version of our software is available for you to upgrade. It will appear after the app is open for a little while, then simply click the button and follow the instructions on the prompt to upgrade. Updating is the best way to ensure you have the latest security fixes, bug fixes, improvements, enhancements, and new features that we come out with in the future.
Update available notification on bottom right
Beta Testing Community
We have received a number of requests for becoming a beta tester and joining our latest development efforts and we couldn’t be more excited that you all are so interested in supporting us even further. To that end, we are always looking for new beta testers and early access folks to join our growing community. If you are interested in becoming a beta tester, please send us an email with the subject line “Beta Testing Community” and we will email you a link to our Slack group.
Website Updates
As we move from crowdfunding to our ecommerce platform, we want to ensure our website is robust and provides the information you are looking for. By funneling questions through our website, we can also respond to your inquiries faster. Updates to our website include:
We are aiming to have muteme.com be the number one place for all of our supporters to go to get any questions answered, issues raised, features requested, devices purchased, software downloaded, and more. We hope to see you there!
Social Media Updates
For more week-to-week updates, follow-us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn)!
Thanks!
MuteMe Team (Parm, Handeep, Tye, Brittany, Pavan)
]]>Hi backers,
Thank you for your support and patience. The delay caused by the global chip shortage followed by the Suez Canal obstruction caused a backlog as more freight was routed by air. As you know we took advantage of the situation to improve MuteMe and you are now getting a much better product with improved firmware, and USB-C.
Our goal is to have all of our shipping and fulfillment operations for any of our customers that have placed an order by now completed by 6/20/21.
Our team preparing MuteMe's to be shipped
We are constantly working on adding Level 2 and Level 3 sync for more conference applications on Mac, Windows, and Linux. Our software will show you which levels are currently available for the conference application that you use. If you don't see yours there, don't worry! We are adding software features on a weekly basis and you will see it via a software update in the future.
Here is where we are at today:
Current Compatibility Chart
We’ve put some quick overview videos together highlighting how to install the MuteMe App (it’s easy) and a walkthrough of the MuteMe App UI!
Installing MuteMe App
Please Invite our Team On Your Journey!
Our team would love to see MuteMe in your office workspace! We love to hear your mute/unmute story and what inspired you to pledge for a MuteMe device. Please share your journey by sending or tagging us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn!
Your Impact on MuteMe’s Growth
Smaller Size
MuteMe went from being a 3-piece design (80mm / 3 in. wide) to a simpler cleaner design, making the device more accessible, robust, a better fit for the desk, and much more premium (hello stainless steel).
Thank you for your ongoing support! We are excited to share the following updates:
First Batch of MuteMe’s will Arrive Next Week!
The first batch of MuteMe’s are due to arrive within the next seven days! Initially, as we set up our operation and do in person quality inspections, shipping out devices will be in small progressions. Our operation includes flashing, engraving, packaging, and shipping all in-house based on the order we received the pledge. We expect to start shipping on May 11 and have all crowdfunding fulfillment completed by June 20th, so watch your emails for tracking information. These will be shipped starting with our earliest backers first and continue until all backers have shipped their MuteMe.
90%+ of you have filled out the surveys. Thank you! For the remaining, please fill out the surveys so we can get your devices to you on time. IF YOU NEED TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS YOU WILL NEED TO DO SO BY MAY 7TH. After this date, all shipping addresses will be final.
Confirm your Shipping Information (Kickstarter Backers)
If you can’t find your survey in your email (a survey is what is used to get your shipping information), here are instructions on how to go into your account and find the survey (we can’t resend the survey as Kickstarter only allows us to send it one time), simply log in to your Kickstarter account to check.
If you’re viewing the site through a desktop browser, you’ll see a notification at the top of the page for any surveys awaiting response. On iOS and Android apps, you can access any pending surveys via your Activity feed.
Once you complete a survey through Kickstarter, you'll receive an email confirmation that includes a copy of your responses.
To change your address:
Second Batch of MuteMe’s Scheduled for delivery End of May
Our second batch of 10K of MuteMe’s is scheduled to arrive three weeks later on May 25th. We will be flashing, packaging, and shipping out those devices as well, fulfilling all pre-orders to date.
New Orders to be Fulfilled in June
We are incredibly thankful for the high demand for MuteMe! Thank you for the ongoing referrals and sharing on social media. We will be able to fulfill any new orders, including bulk orders, in June. For bulk order requests, please email us at orders@muteme.com and we will be happy to provide a custom quote.
What’s Included in your Order:
New How-to-Videos
Our very own co-founders Brittany and Tye have recorded easy-to-follow videos on how to use MuteMe and those will be available once we begin shipping out. You’ll be able to check them out on our YouTube channel or website once published!
Follow us on Social Media to get Live Updates
Share your MuteMe arrivals and follow our team on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as we post live pictures and videos of devices arriving, our operation, and shipping your units!
Summary of MuteMe Features and Capabilities
OS SUPPORT
PLATFORM SUPPORT
MuteMe’s proprietary technology allows for agnostic support to mute/unmute your default microphone on any computer. MuteMe is a safer and more compatible way to ensure that you are muted. In addition, we work with popular platforms to ensure synchronization of status. These platforms include:
SOFTWARE
DEVICE FEATURES
Work in Progress
MuteMe's Getting Ready!
Thank you!
MuteMe Team (Parm, Handeep, Tye, Brittany, Pavan, & Annie)
]]>As we pull into the final stretch of getting MuteMe™ to your homes, schools and offices, we want to provide an important update on our progress and distribution status. As of now, here is where we stand with MuteMe™:
--> WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU (Kickstarter only) <--
Manufacturing & Delivery
We expect to begin shipping to our early backers by early May and expect to fulfill all preorders by the end of May.
OS and Platform Support
Connectivity
Beta Software Testing
Custom Engraving
*Engraving Requirements
There are some restrictions on how we can personalize your products. We can’t:
MuteMe™ - The first illuminated button that stays in sync with your video conferencing tool of choice!
Thanks!
MuteMe Team
]]>We have seen over the past year an everlasting change in the workforce. COVID-19 made for a record amount of people of all ages working and learning remotely. While things may return to “normal”, there will be a new “norm” where many are not returning to the cubicle or office, or may take on a hybrid approach. Working remotely is here to stay, but with many things, comes with its pros and cons. Being home means distractions, inconsistent schedules, and redefining household boundaries. The good news? There are always ways to improve your remote work and learning experience.
Here are 3 simple ways to make your remote work life more seamless:
Get Ready for the day
You would be surprised how much it can help to just get ready for the day as if you were going into the office - all while skipping the commute! Get dressed, brush your teeth, or whatever you would do for “normal” office life. We are all looking for ways to make working from home feel natural and this is a great way to feel like you’re ready for the day!
Set up a dedicated organized and quiet space
You will be spending a lot of time in your working space, making it comfortable will be key! Setting up a space that’s not full of distractions and clutter makes for a more productive mind. While you should have a comfy chair to sit in, try to not work from places where you rest, like your bed or the couch. Save those spots for when you're ready to decompress. This will help you get in work mode much easier if you do not associate work with distractions or places you tend to shut down mentally. If you work at home with family or roommates, communicate with them your working hours and when you need distractions to be at a minimum (sometimes this may not be possible and that’s okay!). If it’s challenging to find that space in your home, check your local area for work spaces you utilize! https://www.workbar.com/remote-workers/
Establish boundaries
It’s important to set specific hours and break times for your day. Just like you would at work, taking a lunch break is still necessary! Setting up a virtual lunch meeting to chat with co-workers about non-work stuff can be a great way to stay social. If you prefer to be off a screen for a bit, get outside and enjoy some fresh air. Lunch time could even be a great opportunity to get in a quick workout or run. Having boundaries allows you to be more present in your home life.
Creating new routines isn’t always easy, so take it one step at a time and establish the routine that best suits your lifestyle!
Photo by Standsome Worklifestyle on Unsplash
]]>Thank you so much for your continued support for MuteMe™ as we vigorously work to get MuteMe™ to your homes, schools and offices! The MuteMe™ campaign continues to be a success because of the nearly 5,000 backers from Kickstarter and Indiegogo! As of now, here is where we stand with MuteMe™:
Manufacturing & Delivery
OS and Platform Support
User Preferences
Alpha-Beta Software Testing
Distribution Ready
Custom Engraving
We loved seeing all of your suggestions, and all our progress will continue to reflect your feedback! Please DM, Comment or send us a message and/or feature request on our website here. Thank You!
- MuteMe Team
MuteMe™ - The first illuminated button that stays in sync with your video conferencing tool of choice!
]]>