How to Make a Conference Call

Steps

1. Search on-line to find a conference call provider.
   • Make sure your provider has the features and reliability you are looking for.
   • Decide if you want a toll free (ex: 1-800) number, or if you want participants to pay long distance charges. Rates will vary.
2. Schedule your conference call and invite other people to attend.
3. Send invitations to your conference.
   • Provide the date and time (and time zone if necessary) of the meeting.
   • Instruct participants to dial the telephone access number and then enter the conference code information.
4. At the specified time, everyone should dial the access telephone number.
5. When prompted, participants should enter their conference code number.
6. Wait for everyone to join and then start talking!

Tips

• Keep multi-tasking to a minimum.
• If you talk fast, try slowing down and speak clearly.
• Call from a quiet location and avoid background noise.
• Use the mute button when you?re not talking or if you need to sneeze.
• Avoid VoIP phones, bad headsets, speakerphones and cell phones whenever possible.
• Keep paper shuffling and typing to a minimum to prevent background noise.
• Avoid gum, chips or any other food while on a conference call.
• Don't put your phone on hold if it plays music.
• Start on time and be extra aware of time zones.

Warnings

• When searching for a conference call provider, enquire about hidden fees and monthly requirements.
• Be sure to verify the rate for toll-free and toll access numbers, as they may be significantly different.
• If you have clients or employees outside of the USA who plan to join the conference call, be sure that they are able to access/connect to the conference. Again, be sure to check for international rate differences.

Sources and Citations

• http://www.conferencecallspot.com/ Conference Call Information
• How to compare services
• Accuconference - provides audio, video and web conferencing. You can sign-up for a free no obligation two-week trial
• Great America Networks Conferencing - An affordable provider of Audio, Video, and Web Conferencing. Lowest rates guaranteed.
• SpeedyPin Conference Calls: 100 Minute Risk-free Trial - Start/Join a prepaid conference call in the USA or Internationally from 3.4¢ per minute.
• MeetandTalk Conference Tips - Some handy pointers on running a successful conference

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