How to Use Conference Calling

By J.D. Wollf

  • Overview

    Conference calls are a great way to have a meeting without having to actually meet. It may seem as if conference calling is a complex process that requires special equipment such as speakers and headsets, but all you'll need are a few numbers, some contacts, and a phone. If you have Internet phone service, such as Skype, you may be able to directly contact multiple participants.
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    • Step 1

      Look for a conference call provider. For better sound quality, look for a provider that offers digital phone service. Some conference call providers also offer extra services, such as conversation recording and the ability to download the conference recording to your computer.

    • Step 2

      Choose a conference calling plan. Some conference call providers offer their services for free and callers will only have to pay the phone company's local or long-distance fees. Other providers offer toll-free numbers. If you choose a toll-free number, you won't pay the phone company. Instead, you'll pay the conference call provider's usage rate, either per minute or a flat fee. If you're making an international conference call, check with the conference call provider to see how the rates will vary.

    • Step 3

      Register your conference call. Some providers need only your name and email address to provide you with a telephone number and PIN number that can be used at any time. Others need you to schedule the conference call in advance or make a reservation.

    • Step 4

      Receive your assigned telephone number and PIN number from your conference call provider.

    • Step 5

      Schedule the meeting. Remember to contact all participants and receive a confirmation of participation. Some conference call providers will send emails and text messages that invite participants and remind them about the upcoming conference call.

    • Step 6

      Dial the provided telephone number and enter your PIN number. Your participants should also dial in.

    • Step 7

      Hold your meeting.
    • Skill: Easy
    • Ingredients:
    • Teleconferencing number
    • PIN number
    • Tip: The internet phone service Skype allows users to create conference calls and invite their contacts. If you'd like to hold a conference call using Skype, remember to add all potential participants as contacts so you can invite them.
    • Warning:
    • Remember that your participants may be in different time zones. Choose a time that's convenient for everyone.
    • For better reception, avoid cell phones and headsets.

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