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Monday 19 October 2009

Audio Conferencing Tips for Sellers and Buyers some advantages and 4 don'ts

Audio Conferencing Tips for Sellers and Buyers


- some Dos and 4 Don’ts





Conference calls have the power to reduce the cost and frequency of travel, and permit buyer and seller to make best use of their time.
If you're interested in using audio conferencing for your sales call, here are a few tips to help you succeed




Be certain that your call participants know
a) when the call is going to happen,
b) where to dial in.




Prepare an agenda of what your meeting objectives are. These should be distributed via e-mail before the meeting. Don’t forget to send out all important conference call information in advance, such as the dial-in number PIN numbers and passwords.
Start on time and lead the introductions with a roll call, which should include each conference call participant's name, job title, and location. This makes sure that everyone is present before you begin.
Remind participants in your conference call to identify themselves before speaking.
(Because there is no visual contact on the phone and it can be hard to identify the speaker by voice alone announcing who is speaking avoids this confusion.)




4 Things to avoid during the conference call








  1. Don't interrupt -- Since there aren’t any visual cues during an audio conference call, participants should wait until the last speaker is finished before speaking. The host may need to redirect the focus of the call if the conference call's conversation goes ‘walkabout’.




  2. Avoid distracting activities -- Conference call participants need to be aware that a speakerphone picks up typing on the keyboard, paper shuffling, pencil tapping, and chair squeaks.




  3. Don't put the call on hold -- If a conference call is placed on hold, "hold" music will begin and distract the entire meeting, or another person can pick up the held call, which will further interrupt the meeting and jostle everyone's focus. Winding up your conference call
    Let no one linger
    When the call is ready to end, the host needs to clearly state that the meeting has concluded and thank all for their participation.
  4. Don't forget to write up your meeting minutes / follow up notes and distribute them promptly.

2 comments:

  1. Hi Hugh,

    I find that booking a meeting room for group conference calls and 'knowing your equipment' is essential. Also, never underestimate the importance of face-to-face meetings - conference calls have their place but are never as beneficial (or as enjoyable) as meeting in person.

    Impressive blog! Regards, Matthew

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  2. Thanks Matt

    Your point about knowing about your audio conferencing equipment is so true.

    I witnessed one conference a while ago, where for several minutes no one could hear the Conference facilitator because he had hit the mute button by mistake!

    Audio conferencing has its place as you say but so does face to face. Different Strokes for different folks (and different situations.)
    Regards
    Hugh

    ReplyDelete