A conference call is very much like a regular meeting in many ways, but it also differs tremendously. Here are a few do's and don'ts to help you be a better teleconference participant.
Do's for participants:
- Arrive early online or on the phone
- Clearly state your name when you log in or arrive
- Mute your phone to prevent background noise from disturbing others
- Stay focused, don't drift off mentally by doing your email while attending a teleconference you may miss something important
- Participate and ask questions when appropriate
Don'ts for participants:
- Don't put your phone on hold if you step away everyone may hear your hold music
- Don't eat while you are listening in, the smacking and chewing is considered rude behavior
- Don't talk to others while you are on a teleconference - unless you are sure your phone is muted
- Don't multi-task while you are on the call turn off your cell phone and PDA
- Don't interrupt the speaker, wait until the question and answer period unless your teleconference has a more give and take format. Remember to unmute your phone to ask your question
