How AI Bots are Recognizing You Talk Too Much During a Meeting

In the era of remote work, video meetings have become the norm, and with them, the silent observers – AI bots. As per a recent report, a growing number of companies are embracing AI bots in their video meetings, not just as passive notetakers but as active moderators of conversation etiquette. These bots mediate, transcribe, and, perhaps somewhat eerily, offer real-time feedback to participants. While this innovation promises to enhance meeting efficiency, it also raises questions about its impact on the dynamics of our digital gatherings.

It's a scene familiar to many of us: a grid of faces on a screen, boxes flickering with people in different locations, and among them, the AI bots, the digital entities that watch, listen, and analyze. These bots serve multiple purposes. In some cases, they silently record meeting minutes, making sure no vital discussion points go unnoticed. In others, they act as the guardians of meeting etiquette, stepping in when someone might be talking too much or not letting others have their say.

Imagine discussing the intricacies of enterprise taxware, a topic inherently prone to monotony. Yet, in this context, Josh Stir, a senior software development manager, found himself engaged in a rather peculiar conversation with a Zoom behavior bot. It was as if the AI deemed his tone too flat, and it promptly suggested he vary his pitch to maintain the group's interest. Josh's response to the AI's well-intended advice was succinct but pointed, "I was like, yes, that's what I'm here to do. It's technology for corporate tax software; no one's going to carry me out of the room on their shoulders."

This episode highlights a notable issue with AI bots in meetings – the lack of context. While their intention to maintain engagement is commendable, their approach might not always align with the nature of the discussion. It underscores the importance of striking a balance between technology and human interaction.

Apart from the effectiveness of AI bots, their presence in meetings has raised eyebrows and even caused discomfort. Some have likened it to the sensation of being watched at a coffee shop, where the only eyes upon you are digital. Zack Schwartz, whose company experimented briefly with these bots, shared his experience. It's as if you look out the window and see nothing but a pair of digital eyes staring back at you.

Colin Dougherty, a tech marketing director, had a rather dystopian encounter. He joined a call, only to find himself surrounded by a coterie of silent AI bots. It's an eerie feeling, one that underlines the impersonal and occasionally unsettling nature of these AI meeting companions.

Beyond the eerie aspects, the presence of AI bots can create unintended power dynamics. As marketer Jessica Malnik pointed out, the bots can foster a "weird power dynamic" in meetings. It's not merely about the AI's role but how their presence can affect the interactions among human participants. The workplace atmosphere can be subtly influenced by these digital spectators.

The introduction of AI bots in meetings raises several important questions. Are these bots capable of understanding the subtleties of human conversation? Can they truly recognize when someone is dominating the discussion or merely providing valuable insights?

While AI has made significant strides in natural language processing and understanding, there's still room for improvement. The nuances of conversation, the intent behind words, and the unique dynamics of each meeting are areas where AI might fall short.

Meetings are a fundamental part of corporate life, but they are not without their challenges. Many meetings are often deemed as boring, and some could arguably be replaced with more efficient communication methods, such as emails or collaborative documents.

Yet, meetings serve a vital purpose. They offer a platform for real-time discussions, idea exchange, and decision-making. They are the arenas where the synergy of a team comes to life. In this context, AI bots can play a constructive role by ensuring everyone gets a chance to contribute and that discussions stay on track.

As companies embrace AI bots in meetings, it's essential to find the right balance between technological assistance and human interaction. While AI can help ensure meetings are more productive and inclusive, it should not overshadow the human element. The personal connections, the unscripted moments of humor, and the shared sense of purpose in a meeting are all integral to a productive and engaging work environment.