Conference calls can be a fun and exciting way to meet friends and relatives from afar. Getting in touch across the world is more like a face-to-face conversation with video streaming technology and internet connection proliferating over the years.
SummarySchedule correctlyPresent or be presented in the callPrepare the tools for the callOpen on locationSummarize individual assignmentsEpilogueBut conference calls aren't just for casual homesick chats, they're also essential components for business operations.
With the impact of remote work changing the traditional dynamics of office work, more companies are offering work-from-home positions that better match their employees' schedules.
Conference calls are becoming the norm for businesses, not only to speak with business partners, but also to communicate with corporate teams and departments. Thus, keeping it professional is a must.
Keep these five conference call modes in mind for your next online meeting.
Being able to work on your terms is one of the modern mindsets of the new generation of employees when applying for a job. Conference calls solve the problem of not being able to meet in person, whether nearby in town or around the world.
Since different people work with varying working hours, it is essential to know everyone's availability in the call.
If an interruption occurs during the call, it is a common courtesy to notify the other parties in advance. If it's not as relevant and urgent, then the conference call should be the priority.
However, requests may be excused depending on the severity of the emergency.
An essential part of every meeting is getting to know everyone around the table. It is essential to clearly understand your place in the conference call, especially if it is the first time you speak with colleagues.
A great first impression can make it easier to flow the dialogue later so everyone can address each other with feedback and comments.
Multitasking is a daily necessity during audio or video calls. Since conference calls are online, a person participating in them should always have all the necessary tools in a live meeting.
Prepare notes, important business records and files; opening different tabs in advance and having a copy of the agenda will make it easier to follow how the conversation is going.
Hardware plays a vital role in the ability to multitask online. Without spending too much, one can enjoy a high-resolution visual experience. Just buy a refurbished device to manage various applications in a conference call, especially for video calls.
By allowing its user to navigate through multiple windows and desktops, an employee does not risk losing the flow of the conversation during the call.
Not everyone has access to a desktop and laptop setup during online meetings. Although misguided, people can accept conference calls on their phones for those who can't commit to having a stable home setup. But the benefits of real-time mobility can become a hassle while calling.
Moving from location to location can be a cause of unnecessary noise and network disruptions, resulting in delayed delivery of audio and video. Crossing the street or living near an ongoing construction project can lead to unintended distractions.
To avoid shocking or alarming the rest of the meeting participants, it is best to give them a warning about one's current location, whether one chooses to take a call via desktop, laptop, tablet or a phone.
One of the disadvantages of a conference call meeting is that the parties involved cannot see each other in person. The implications of not knowing what someone is doing on the other end of the line could lead to communication issues.
As with any meeting, laying out a plan at the start and going over the important points after it's all been said is crucial for a good memory.
At the end of the session, it is essential to recap everyone's takeaways and tasks to address any need for clarification.
Like live meetings, conference call meetings have their ups and downs. While this allows for greater freedom in one's own time, it also brings to the table different challenges that one should learn to deal with.
However, what does not change during online or offline meetings is the importance of being transparent, polite and professional during a session.
Professionalism, whether across the table or in front of a screen, is a trait everyone should practice.
