How to Behave on a Conference Call
Conference calls are phone calls that involve more than two people and are the equivalent of a business meeting. Some calls are set up so that only one person can talk, but generally it is a multiperson conversation. While some phone companies allow three-way calling, businesses often hire a service provider that allows as many people as you desire to participate in the call.
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Instructions
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Ensure that the time set up for the conference call is convenient for everyone involved. Be aware of different time zones when choosing a time.
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Shut the door to your office to eliminate background noise. If you do not have an office, find a quiet area in which to take the call.
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Use a phone that does not pick up background noises and does not have static. Cellphones are not the best choice for a conference call because of their tendency to do this as well as the possibility of the call being dropped.
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Sit in a chair that does not squeak or make any type of noise. Leather chairs are notorious for making audible noises. These distractions are much more noticeable over the phone.
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Refrain from multitasking. The click of a computer keyboard is often audible over the phone. Multitasking also promotes distraction.
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Say your name each time before you speak. Not everyone recognizes voices. This also simplifies things for anyone taking notes.
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Use the person's name to whom you are speaking unless you are speaking to the entire group, for example, "John, do you have the data on the Henderson project?"
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Save the beverages and snacks for after the call. It is poor form to eat or drink because the sound is often magnified over a telephone.
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Use the same amount of formality required in other meetings held by the business for which you work. A conference call should be treated the same as any other meeting you are required to attend.
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References
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