Getting ready to join your first conference call ever as an attendee? Are you at a loss as to what to expect? Do you know the proper etiquette for a conference call? Here we provide you with some basic tips for newbies to help you through your first call, and in no time at all you will be a pro and perhaps even hosting conference calls on your own. Remembering some basic tips for before, during and after your call will be effective in making sure you walk away with a positive experience.
Before the conference call you should receive an agenda and instructions for joining the call. This agenda will let you know what subjects will be discussed and what you should expect. Review this agenda and make notes of any questions or comments you may have. Be sure to read through the joining instructions carefully and take note of scheduled time and be sure to confirm the time-zone. Be on time and ready, the same manners that apply to face-to-face meetings apply to conference calls. And multi-tasking is definitely out. You want to give your full attention to the host or presenter and ready with answers if called upon.
Minding your manners and acting in a professional and courteous manner is extremely important during a conference call, the call may even be recorded. During the call be respectful of your presenter. Keep your background noise to a minimum and if this isn’t possible put yourself on mute so that the noise doesn’t bother the other callers. Take notes and pay attention during the call. Remind yourself that you were asked to be on the call for a reason. Taking notes and reviewing the call transcript or mp3 recording will keep you in the loop about what is going on. It will also ensure that there isn’t miscommunication from your superiors about the tasks you are to complete. Complete the experience with a little follow-up work after the call and your job is almost done.
You have spent valuable time on a conference call. What are you going to do with the information provided? If you feel that you might have missed an important fact or part of the conversation, be sure to follow up and ask questions of the right people. The conference call has been used as a tool to give you important information. Use the information the way it is intended and make the most out of the experience and voila, you have just completed your first conference call. You will be more than prepared for the next call, will know what to expect, and also know if you need to seek a different environment so that you can give your full attention to the call.
