Conference calls may seem like a get out of jail free card to some employees. It allows you the freedom to do virtually whatever you want, while in a meeting. Yet, this might not be the best take on the situation. Conference call services are a good way to touch base with your employer and coworkers- especially if you work remotely.
Here are the eight situations to avoid doing on a conference call:
1.Texting and checking social media apps: This may seem like a no brainer, but many conference call participants may find themselves hitting the speaker button and clicking over to Facebook (News - Alert) to see what their friends are up to. Staying present during a phone call is important, it shows your boss and coworkers you're focused and engaged in the conversation.
2.Falling Asleep: According to a survey done by InterCall, 27 percent of participants admitted to falling asleep during a call. This number is surprisingly high in the professional world- keep yourself alert during a call and participate in the conversation to avoid snoring on the line.
3.Using The Bathroom: Conference calls should be treated as formally as in person meetings. The survey states that 47 percent of call participants have used the bathroom while on a call. As adults. It’s really not that hard to plan bathroom trips in accordance with your phone calls. No one wants to hear a remote employee using the restroom.
4.Eating or Making Food: A conference call is not an excuse to take a break from work and prepare a snack or meal. It will be awkward for everyone involved if you are unable answer a question because you just took a big bite of pizza.
5.Taking Calls Poolside: A shocking 29 percent of survey participants admitted to taking a conference call by the beach or pool. Lounging next to a body of water seems like a big distraction; try to remove yourself from a relaxed mind set into a place where you can concentrate for the duration of the phone call.
6.Leaving Mid-Call: Sometimes conference calls can drag on and not be of utmost importance to your work. This doesn’t mean you should drop out of the call silently and hope no one notices. Stay for the duration of the call, no matter how irrelevant it may seem there is always something to get out of it.
7.Shopping Online: While it can be tempting to browse your favorite online store during a call, it’s definitely a huge distraction. Typing in your credit card number while being asked your opinion on a topic can leave you feeling caught off guard.
8.Playing Video Games: Nothing like being distracted by Madden while talking strategy with your boss. The sound effects that accompany video games can only lead us to imagine that someone who does this will get outed eventually.
Avoiding these conference call mistakes will ensure that you are an active and engaged participant. Taking part in the discussion will not only benefit you, but the other people on the call as well. Conference calls allow remote workers to feel like part of a team even if they are not directly in the office. Take conference calls as an opportunity to share, discuss and connect with the people you work with.
Edited by Maurice Nagle