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Quick recap

The team discussed the postponement of Margherita’s Qualiopi audit and clearing any confusion between the two organizations: the Language Network (“TLN”) and TLNS (language Network services”).
We also explored the potential of using AI tools for language training and presentation generation, and the challenges faced by our business due to increased competition from low-cost international platforms.
Lastly, we discussed strategies for attracting corporate customers, personal experiences, and planned for future meetings.

During the meeting, there was a technical issue with Peter’s microphone, which made it difficult for the group to hear him – sorry Peter!

Summary

Qualiopi Audit Postponed
Margherita’s Qualiopi audit was postponed to December 9th. One reason for the postponement was that Margherita knows the auditor. Margherita expressed her preference for complete objectivity in her business dealings, which led to a discussion about the need for another auditor. 

TLN/TLNS Clarification
The meeting discussed some confusion around the organizations TLN (The Language Network) and TLNS (The Language Network Services), which were previously run by Claire.
Lucy clarified that TLNS covered Claire’s teaching services and the BEST tests, while TLN was the broader network. The group has been working to separate the two organizations legally and financially after the loss of Claire.

The Language Network subscriptions.
The team discussed the TESOL meeting in Paris, where members promoted the Language Network. There seemed to be a little confusion over the pricing of subscriptions that was shown on the presentation slides as a two-tier system, but this was based on the original subscription base, and the new subscription system has yet to be agreed on, presumably for the next Language Network online forum.

The team also discussed the drinks evening which was held in honour of Claire that same weekend in Paris.
It was attended by around 15 to 20 people, though unfortunately a little marred by loud music making it difficult to converse.

Self-Evaluation Process for Training Courses
In the meeting, the group discussed their experiences with a self-evaluation process for their training courses. Margherita explained that this process is a requirement for their work, but some members, like Lucy and Kathleen, had not been asked to fill it out before. They discussed the specific indicator (32) and criteria (7) related to this process.
The group also discussed the importance of this process in tracking their progress and improving their training courses.

Auditor Experiences and Training Reflections
In the meeting, Margherita, Greg, and others discussed their recent experiences with an auditor.
Greg shared that his audit went smoothly, thanks to an experienced auditor who understood the overall context. They also discussed the importance of self-evaluation and reflection on training courses, with Margherita and others sharing their experiences.
Further discussions on Qualiopi and quality procedures were referred to the upcoming Qualiopi Mutual Support group meeting the following week.

AI Tools for Language Training
In the meeting, Margherita, Ian, and others discussed the use of AI tools for language training and generating presentations.
Ian introduced the tool Gamma AI, which can generate presentations and images based on prompts.
He demonstrated how to use it to create a presentation from a rapid translation of a French document into English.
The team also discussed the potential of using AI tools for language training, such as improving English skills and prompt writing. Additionally, we explored the use of Excalidraw, a free tool for creating diagrams and timelines, and discussed the Linguaid Barometer, a report on the language training market.

Effects of €100 Contribution Discussed
In the meeting, the team discussed the effects of the €100 CPF contribution on their business.
We noted a significant drop in related activity, with only 19.2% reporting an increase. The team also discussed the impact of the contribution on sales, with 40% experiencing a decrease in sales volume over the last year.
We also discussed the challenges of selling our services, with most of us relying on word of mouth. We also discussed the competitiveness of the market and the growth prospects and obstacles we face. 

Challenges From Low-Cost International Platforms
The team discussed the challenges faced by their business due to increased competition from low-cost international platforms. They noted that these platforms were able to offer more hours for the same price, which was a significant factor in their potential drop in business. The team also discussed the issue of delocalization, where big operators were able to find trainers all around the globe, leading to a decrease in prices. We acknowledged that our business was more tailored and specialized, but struggled to explain our added value to customers.
The team also reminisced about the past, mentioning the demise of some big operators, and the move of Berlitz out of France.
We ended the conversation with a light-hearted discussion about a funny advertisement by Berlitz.

Corporate Customer Attraction Strategies
In the meeting, the team discussed strategies for attracting corporate customers and building relationships with companies. We acknowledged the challenges of companies not investing in training and the importance of personal connections. Kathleen shared her experiences from her early teaching job and how she transitioned into her current role. The team also discussed the potential of using anecdotes and personal stories to build relationships with companies. The conversation ended with a light-hearted discussion about the good old days in the teaching profession.

Personal Experiences and Jomo Discussion
In the meeting, participants discussed various topics including personal experiences, hobbies, and work-related matters.
Kathleen shared her pastime of writing short stories and novels, while Margherita expressed her desire to spend weekends doing other things besides work.
The group also discussed the concept of “Joy of Missing Out” (Jomo) and how it differs from “Fear of Missing Out” (Fomo).
Ian reminded everyone that there are two meetings in November, the second one being the following day, to allow all interested members to attend at least one of the two meetings.
The conversation ended with the announcement of the Qualiopi Mutual Support group meeting next Wednesday and the participants wishing each other a good night.

(Meeting report by Zoom transcription)