1. Silence is golden
‘Sounds of Silence’ wasn’t just a 1966 album from folksy pop duo Simon & Garfunkel; it’s also good advice when it comes to a conference call. The only thing people should be able to hear on your line is either silence or your voice – not a noisy office, barking dog or screaming child. It makes it difficult for everyone else to listen to the call. Take it somewhere more chilled.
2. Attention!
Pay attention, sit up straight. OK, the sit up straight part isn’t necessary, but daydreaming like you did in your year eight geography class is a recipe for embarrassment. You never know when you might be asked your opinion on what’s just been said so listen at all times.
3. Make your own minutes
Making or reading agendas ahead of a meeting and writing notes during are not activities exclusive to in-person get-togethers. You’ll get more out of a call if you put pen to paper – or finger to keyboard.
4. Get to know each other
A person’s voice is significantly less recognisable than their face. It’s a good idea for all participants to introduce themselves when the meeting starts. That way, everyone gets a handle on who’s who before you pitch your game-changing idea.
5. Channel your energy
If you’re an expressive communicator (with arms that look like they’re directing an orchestra), you might want to consider channelling that limb-based energy into voice-based animation, since no one is going to be able to see your elegant (or not) gestures. It should help you get your point across better.
6. Know your audience
Your thick accent or high chatter speed may be part of your charm, but it can make you hard to understand, especially to people whose first language isn’t English. Try slowing your speech and pronouncing words with more clarity. Even if you’re a bit of a motor-mouth, lower speeds and clearer talk will make it easier for anyone taking notes.
7. Document it: Press record!
Ever been unable to recall that great idea everyone was brainstorming in the meeting room just last week? Welcome to the shortcomings of the human mind. Don’t worry; like always, technology is here to help. Powwownow provides the facility for you to record your conference calls.
8. Put your mind to it
We’re sure little Glen trying to pass you a handful of Lego, daytime television or last night’s reheated lasagne is absolutely the most important thing happening in your house during your telephone conference, but consider whether it’s just as vital to everyone else. Bear
conference call etiquette in mind when you dial in.
9. Get with the 21st century
Make sure your phone is fully-charged, has a good connection and is otherwise up to the task. While you can join a Powwownow conference call from any handset, not all providers are as flexible. If you can, consider a good headset; it’s nearly always the better option.
10. Follow it up
Not everyone voices their opinion during a voice conference and not every query comes up while every person’s on the line. Follow up the call with an email that outlines what was said and gives participants the chance to ask questions or raise a point that they couldn’t ask on the call.
