How to Make a Free Conference Call

By Gigi Starr

Overview

Free conference calls are a great way to talk to several people at once without incurring costly phone fees. Many companies and private individuals alike use free conference calling to run meetings and get in touch with others. Most are easy to set up and are simple to participate in. Joining a conference call is much like checking a bank account balance over the phone, so follow these steps to join a conference call near you.

2007 givepeasachance / Creative Commons

Step 1

Find the phone number of the conference call service where the call will be held. The number may or may not be toll-free. Since toll free numbers usually incur a surcharge from the company, you'll be calling a long distance number. Use a cell phone or phone service that has free long distance to avoid extra long distance charges.
Step 2

Dial the phone number. Within several rings, a voice will answer and says, "Welcome to Free Conference Call." After the introductory message, you'll be directed to enter your PIN number.

Step 3

Find the PIN number and enter it into the phone pad, followed by the "#" sign. The PIN number is usually 5 digits, and is used to control people's access to various calls. Since there could be hundreds of other people calling the access number for different calls at any given time, the PIN makes certain that you're routed to the correct room.
Step 4

Wait for the operator software to process the PIN. The voice will tell you that there will be a beeping noise when you're added to the room, and then instruct you to say your name at the tone. At the beep, say your full name. The moderator will receive a message from the operator indicating that a new user has joined the call. Your name will be displayed at this time.
Step 5

Join the conference call. You'll be approved for entry by the call planner/moderator, and can then enter the call and participate.

Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
Conference call service phone number
Conference call access code (also called a PIN)
Tip: Be sure to pay attention to your moderator, since there are often special functions associated with keys on the phone pad. For instance, the moderator may mute the entire group during the presentation section of the meeting so that they're not interrupted.
Tip: Stay as quiet as possible during conference calls. If ambient noise is a problem, mute your phone. Some services use the 6 button followed by the "#" sign for this function.

More Essortment Articles