Sunday, March 30, 2008

Conference Call Tips That Will Have You Hosting Like a Pro

If you're new to the wild and wonderful world of conferencing, you might want to continue reading. We've put together a list of hot conferencing tips that will show you how to make a conference call the easiest work-related task you've completed since the time you took that cute sales rep to a "meeting" at that new bar across town.

Be On Time - Or Else

When sending out email notifications regarding your conference, ask that your participants show up at least five minutes before your conference is scheduled to start. This way, you can give them last minute instructions on how to use the conference call systems.

Yeah, You Too

I shouldn't have to tell you that you need to be on the phone at least five minutes before your participants, to ensure that you know how to use the conference call system before they ask.

The Mute Key is Your Friend

Make sure to let everyone know that when they are not speaking, they should be muting. Muting your phone will cut down on external noise if you are going with the traditional phone conference method. Plus, if you're hosting a lunch hour meeting, there won't be any unattractive chewing noises to try and speak over.

Make Sure You're Plugged In

This advice may sound kind of obvious, but you might be surprised. If your car coasted to a stop on the highway and wouldn't start again, would you immediately replace the engine or would you check the gas gauge? Before your conference goes into full swing, check all of your cables, plugs, and widgets are plugged in tight and in full working order.

Keep It Short and Sweet

If you rattle on about anything for more than one hour, you're likely to lose at least half of your attendees to the mysterious after-lunch fatigue that affects so many business professionals. Keep things brief and on target, but remember, if you machine-gun speak like an auctioneer, you'll lose just as many participants.

This Call May Be Recorded...

If you're using calling conference services or web phone conferencing, many of these services now offer a recording option. This comes in handy when your meeting minute-taker calls in sick. You can play back the conference, transcribe notes, and pass out or mail copies to all of the individuals that attended, reminding them of the points you covered in the meeting. Or wait until the minute-taker comes back and make them do it. Armed with the right knowledge, conference call hosting can be a walk in the park. Just remember not to blabber too much, record your call for posterity, be on time, and feel free to mute.

Huzaili Aris is the webmaster of http://www.conferencecall101.com. Starting a conference call is not as complex as some people think. It is the easiest way to save you time and money for your business. Visit our site for more information

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Friday, March 28, 2008

SumTotal Systems Announces Fourth Quarter and Year End 2006 Earnings Release Date and Conference Call

SumTotal? Systems (Nasdaq:SUMT), the largest provider of talent and learning solutions, will host its fourth quarter and year end 2006 earnings conference call on Tuesday, February 6, 2007. A news release outlining SumTotal's fourth quarter and full year financial results will be released after the market closes on Tuesday, February 6, 2007. The conference call will take place at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Hosting the call will be SumTotal's CEO Don Fowler, COO Dave Crussell and CFO Neil Laird.

SumTotal plans to make a live, audio webcast available to investors and the public at www.sumtotalsystems.com/company/investors. Along with the webcast, SumTotal plans to make available a telephone replay of the call on Tuesday, February 6, 2007, beginning at approximately 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time through the close of business on Tuesday, February 13, 2007. Interested parties can access the replay by dialing 877-519-4471 within the US or 973-341-3080 outside the US and entering the access code 8288214.

For more information about SumTotal's products and services, visit www.sumtotalsystems.com.

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Save on Conference Calls: Know How to Pick a Provider

You've got communication problems that require solutions and unfortunately, those solutions aren't going to waltz up to you while you sit at your desk and twiddle your thumbs. Online research is your buddy when it comes to picking a good conferencing provider. To figure out which internet or phone conferencing provider will benefit your business the most, you'll need to do the following:

Surf the web.

Your ideal web-based conferencing company will have a nice, professional-looking website. What kind of a web-based business doesn't know how to design a commerce site?

Get several conference call price quotes.

So the website's flashy and the price looks okay, but what do you have to compare it to? You wouldn't buy a $300.00 pair of shoes without first checking to see if you could get the same ones for $150.00: check to see if the conference service price is a comfortable fit.

Do your homework.

Research your possible new conferencing phone service like they're potentially the next babysitter for your kids. Check out their FAQ section too, as you'll get more insight to the company.

Interrogate the potential provider. Talk to a customer service representative and see if they can give you comparison conferencing web prices. Find out how long they've been in business. Request any client feedback, reviews or reference that the company has available. Find out if they can give you a call center conference demo.

You might think that's it and now you're guaranteed to end up with the best conference service provider on the face of the planet, but if you want to be really thorough, know the answers to the following questions:

1)What size meetings will you likely be hosting? 2)What is the average number of participants you expect to attend each meeting?

3)How often will you be hosting meetings? Once every fall? Several times during year-end crunchtime?

4)What kind of features are you looking for? Do you want straight phone to phone calling, or web-based service with video capabilities? Will you be sharing files with other users?

5)Do you need an operator to assist with meetings, or will you be designating someone on staff? 6)What kind of cash are you looking to spend?

When you finally get around to choosing a provider, don't worry: there are hundreds of conferencing companies to choose from. Also, be warned. There are unscrupulous companies out there that will pad their bills any way possible and you don't want to be the next big sucker. But as long as you know your stuff ahead of time and be prepared to interview lots of possible providers, you'll soon be on your way to communicating with greater ease.

Huzaili Aris is the webmaster of http://www.conferencecall101.com. Starting a conference call is not as complex as some people think. It is the easiest way to save you time and money for your business. Visit our site for more information

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Thursday, March 27, 2008

How to Plan a Professional Conference Call the Right Way

If you're an office professional who's just been asked (okay, ordered) by your boss to organize the company's first high-tech phone or internet conference call, you're probably shaking in your boots. You have no clue how to go about. What if you screw up, lose the big account, and totally flush the future of your employer's company down the toilet?

Well, we're here to make sure you don't. Read on to learn how to set up a conference call that will be the envy of every other admin in your office building. And don't worry, it won't hurt a bit.

Get a Game Plan It's always important to know what you're doing and when. First, make sure you have a set date, time and number of participants laid out. Also, take into account any time zone differences if you're doing some international conference calling or making a long distance conference call. Don't try to schedule a meeting with a supplier in Asia for 2:00 AM their time. Unless, of course, they really want your company's contract.

Now Tell Everyone Else A month's notice gives busy people the opportunity to pencil you into their datebook. Provide them with the date, basic instructions on accessing the phone conference, their dial-in number, and PIN. Also include the name of the organizer (you) and contact info, proposed start and end time, and topic. And, of course, give them a copy of the proposed agenda. Don't know how to make one? Breath deep and calm down - we'll get to that.

Extras Be sure to include any incidental necessities with your notification email; spreadsheets, visual aides, charts and graphs fall under this category. If you don't have all this material ready when your email goes out, or want your group to have updated info, send it out two weeks in advance.

How to Make Up an Agenda If you don't want your teleconference to descend into anarchy, provide your meeting-goers with a complete and organized agenda. No blaming your mistakes on a hapless temp, either, because that's just mean.

Make sure your agenda covers the following points:

.Topics (Advance notice will allow your conference buddies to propose their own if necessary.) .Who's Speaking on Each Topic (Make them do some talking too.) .How Much Time each Person Has (Recycled toilet paper in the company bathrooms is an important issue, but you shouldn't allow 40 minutes for it.)

If you send out your notification far enough in advance, you can take requests. Just like a good DJ, you can choose whether to play the HR discrimination complaints with the fiscal breakdown. If something just won't fit, time-wise, suggest that the contributor send a memo to all participants requesting that it be brought up at a later date.

Also Keep In Mind... Teleconferencing has come a long way, but it still has challenges and potential pitfalls. The new, high-tech conference call lines have an annoying tendency to pick up every little comment and sound. In other words, don't bad mouth your boss, or mutter any swear words under your breath. To avoid disaster, it's important to be organized and know what you're doing, or at the very least, how to troubleshoot. And remember, a little preparation goes a long way.

Huzaili Aris is the webmaster of http://www.conferencecall101.com Starting a conference call is not as complex as some people think. Find out more on how to plan telephone conference calls by visiting our website

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Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Why Selection of Conference Call Bridge Is Important?

Telecommunication is empowering businesses and touching the lives of people around the world ever since its emergence. It has made possible for people to communicate over long distances in real time. Telecommunication has made possible efficient worldwide working and allows people to harness the advantages of globalization and business processes outsourcing. Conference Calling made it possible for people to work from different parts of the world at the same time and ensure that the research and development works for your organization go on with the fastest speed and most efficiency.

The most important point of consideration while investing in a conference call bridge is the level of security it offers. Conference call bridges are taking loads of call traffic and are considered one of the most vulnerable points in a conference call network. A lot of conference call bridges fall to attempts of wire tapping and become facilitators of corporate espionage. You should only invest in conference call bridges that offer secure conference calls using encryption features. Flawed devices have led to such horror stories of information theft that businesses have had to shut down because of the loss they suffered due to such information leak.

Conference calls are generally routed using special bridges which are very expensive devices and take almost all the load of conference call traffic. While investing in a conference call bridge, a lot of factors have to be kept under consideration. The most important of these is the clarity of voice output. Since bridges carry most of the call traffic, they are prone to heavy loads. This leads to a lot of signal distortion at the conference call bridges. Thus you must invest in bridges with high noise cancellation and favourable signal to noise ratio. If you can lay your hands on conference call bridges with noise cancellation features, so much the better.

The overall quality of Conference Call Bridge is also to be kept in mind because you must ensure a positive 'total cost of ownership' for the conference call bridge. Since they will be taking very heavy loads of your communication needs, the conference call bridges need to be of very high quality. Remember that you have to regularly maintain the conference call bridge so you must look for the companies that offer after sale as well as maintenance support. This will ensure both a low 'total cost of ownership' and regular availability especially at the crucial moments.

The golden rule is to invest in a conference call bridge that offers the best mix of all these features so that you can get the best of your investments.

You can get a detailed overview on conference calling equipment and some charecteristics to look for in a good conference call provider in this website http://www.conferencecallaudiovideo.info

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Conference Call Etiquette For A Business Meeting

Here, I will share my experience with you on the decorum required. I learnt what not to do from my first conference call and what to do from the second.

My first experience with a conference call was on sales strategy with corporate office. I logged into the conference bridge as per the agreed schedule, but soon realized that most of the other attendees were late. Some people I could not identify were talking, adding to the noise in the background. Some were even eating and drinking maybe tea or coffee, making the environment less than business-like. To top it all, I found the leader had no control over the proceedings. Needless to say, there was no outcome of the conference call. The whole session was unorganized, there were unnecessary arguments and misunderstandings and no decision could be taken

Soon there was a mail from VP- planning office, rescheduling the same conference to a week later. This time, there was a 7 point agenda for the conference call clearly listed, along with the expected duration of the call.

This is how my second experience with conference calls was, on the same issue with VP- planning as host:

The VP logged in on time and he introduced himself first along with other people who were with him. Surprisingly people from other offices were also logged in on time. I understood the role of punctuality in a conference call.

Secretary to the VP presented the agenda of the meeting, mentioning that she was going to be the time keeper of the meeting and that she was also responsible for circulating the minutes of the meeting.

Every body in the meeting this time was extremely well mannered, starting to talk only after stating his/her name. There was no back ground chattering. I realized that a quiet back ground is the key to good conference call.

Before we moved to the next topic on the agenda, the VP summarized the decision taken, issues still open for that topic and clearly mentioned who was responsible for closure of a particular open issue. Thus, we agreed on several issues in a short time span. I learnt that organizing and controlling is the basis of a successful conference call.

I noticed some people were going offline for few minutes after pressing the mute button in the conference bridge. This way, they were part of the conference call and yet able to discuss internally without disturbing others. This helped us to take clear decisions.

This time around, we were able to meet the agenda of the conference call.

After 2 days, I got a mail from the office of our VP-planning along with a small note on conference call etiquette.

Here are some helpful tips on "Conference Call Etiquette for A Successful Conference Call"

? Please participate in a conference call from a quiet room; there should not be any other surrounding noise.

? You should use good telephone equipment and should familiarize yourself with the same.

? You should log in on time and introduce yourself.

? Conference call is paid service and several people attend the call, so make optimum use of the time by remaining focused on the agenda.

I found this note extremely helpful. Did you?

I regularly update my site and blog on different aspects on conference calls.

Author is business strategist in a large IT company. You may visit his site http://www.conferencecallaudiovideo.info/conference_call.php for regular update. You will find excellent information on conference call pricing conference call pricing

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Monday, March 24, 2008

Net Based Conference Call Helps To Make Quick Decision

The advancement of the internet helps us in time saving in various ways. You can order your monthly necessary groceries using internet. You can attain your customer in a different country by remote login and web based conference.

Net based web conference call changes our business and family life. Just imagine, your sales team is closing a business deal and you can be part of the conference call by just logging into the web conference call. This is highly beneficial to your business and relation building. Web based video & audio conferencing is becoming a popular tool for holding group meeting and other types of presentations over the net.

It was the late nineties and, as usual, Microsoft was on the forefront in web conference program. At present, Macromedia, Cisco is doing phenomenal work in web conference area.

During a net based conference, participants sit down at their computer and wait to be connected to the other participants through the help of the Internet I personally think the biggest benefit of web based conference is people can log in from their office and home. You need not to travel, you can wear casual dress and you are free from tension of conference room.

There are a number of conferencing programs that offer free trials followed by discounted membership plan. Sophisticated programs like Skype offers advanced features like web conference calls, high-speed conferencing and voicemail which make conference call affordable

The convenience and ever expanding friendly features makes conference call so attractive. Latest Web conference software supports Microsoft PowerPoint and word, excel and file sharing.

Do you like this article on web based video conference? Visit our site to get more technology related information on conference call.

For more ways to save money and improve the communication and efficiency of your business with conference call try visiting http://www.conferencecallaudiovideo.info often where you will get easily and quickly information on conference call services

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Sunday, March 23, 2008

Do You Know Simple Etiquette Makes Conference Call More Efficient

Conference call is an important relation building tool. A conference call may be from business to business, or business to an employee at home or abroad conducting business, it is important that the conference calling experience should be productive To make this service more efficient, you need to follow certain conference call etiquette.

1. Make sure, there is no surrounding noise when you are on the conference call. This will make sure that you hear and understand everything clearly. It is impossible to concentrate on call if you have a dog barking, Xerox machines running, or people arguing in the background.

2. It is necessary that you use a proper telephone Equipment and make yourself familiar with the operation of the equipment. You should know how to mute the phone, how to switch on and off the speaker phone etc..

3. Agenda - Make sure you read the agenda of the conference call. You know what you expect from the conference call or what information you want to share with others. If you are going to participate with people from other country, make yourself aware of their local time. In essence remain focused o topic.

5. Punctuality - You should log in the call on time irrespective of your role in the conference. Conference call should start at scheduled time.

6. Introductions - Make sure you introduce yourself in the call because it helps in relation building and everybody feels comfortable. If you want to response to somebody's statement, please take her name first.

7. Eating - Do not be casual during conference call. Avoid chewing gum and eating during conference call. If you need to drink, use mute button.

Most of the conference call fails to achieve result because most of the above mentioned etiquette is not followed.

Here are some repercussions of a conference call where proper team did not follow the etiquette:

There are bad feelings, arguments and misunderstandings amongst people after conference call. As people failed to reach an agreement, there is no outcome and probably target date will be slipped. This type of conference call is a complete time waste for all people.

Author is business strategist in a large IT company. You may visit his site conference call for regular update. You will find excellent information on conference call provider

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Conference Call Brings People Closer

The growth and advancement of technology helps business communities in effective & efficient communication. Today, CEO of a company can have a 30 minutes video conference call with all country head saving huge travel cost and time. Conference call helps business to take quick decision, confront business emergencies, saves time. Advent of computer technology enables web based conference call which integrates everybody within the organization. CEO can now address her hundreds of employees across from corporate office and her employees at different locations and time zones can watch it using web based conference.

A video conference call brings the people in distance to your room. This enables quicker exchange of information and makes person to person links a quicker and more natural occurrence. Latest conference call equipments provide several value added services like recording of call, on line office assistant with less cost. Conference call is a blessing to business and family both. In most business meetings today, especially large corporate houses that have offices at various major cities across the globe, Internet conferencing is commonplace. Decisions are made among key officials during the conference call, while certain departments publish their monthly performance report to the proper authorities via Internet-based presentations.

Internet conference typically consist of co-browsing activities of internet explorer, Microsoft Power Point presentations, sharing of word and excel sheet. Entire conference call can be stored in a media center and later can be reviewed. In case of video conference call, participants need to go to video conference room. Quality of video conference is better than web based conference but this is also costly services.

In short, conferencing is not just an effective business tool, but also a wonderful way of bringing families closer together and strengthening relationships. Conferencing breaks the distance and bring people closer but sometimes it eliminates the sincerity that comes with person to person interaction. Internet conferencing or web based conferencing can never replace face to face meetings, but it can work wonders at improving the value of communications.

3 simple conferencing buying tips

1. Ensure you know how to get technical support if you face any problem.
2. Make sure you hang up the call properly otherwise you will be charged.
3. Avoid dialing tool free number.

Author a dot com veteran, specializing in business strategy. She currently writes about the business conference call market and conference calls strategies, especially the new age of calling, the conference call at http://www.conferencecallaudiovideo.info

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Thursday, March 20, 2008

Reservationless Conference Calls

In this day and age, there is no reason that a company should settle for anything less then reservationless conference calls from their service provider. With all of the advancements made in conference calling software, service providers that require that all conference calls be reserved in advance should be avoided.

Your company's sales are fueled by your ability to meet the needs of your customer in a quick and efficient manner. Whether you use conference call services to collaborate with other offices or to keep your client updated as to progress you should not have to put things off because you forgot to reserve a time with the conference calling company. Naturally it is to your advantage to pick a time in advance so that your attendees are able to make time in their schedule to attend the meeting, most conference calling companies offer software so that you can schedule times of the Internet for your meetings.

A company though, should always have the option to initiate a meeting within a matter of a few minutes. Things happen, businesses have emergencies and sometimes those emergencies make telephone of calling and leaving a phone message time consuming and unacceptable. Setting up emergency, reservationless conference calls can literally save a company money, time and even ensure that your client sticks around at least a little while longer.

Reservationless conference calls should be included in the basic package with a company. If you are choosing companies that charge a simple flat rate (which of course you should be) then double check the conditions of such a plan. Make sure that not only do they claim to be wireless, but they also need to make sure that it is easy for your company to initiate a conference call "on demand". This is important, as many companies will tell you just about anything to get your business. What many users find is that after they sign up for a contract or even if they just start using the services temporarily that almost none of the extras were included in the base price. Double-check the figures you are given and never accept a quote over the phone. Know exactly what you are looking for and make sure you clearly show your companies desire to have the option to start up a reservationless conference call.

Dean Iggo is the webmaster of a web conferencing solutions website providing answers to common questions like what is web conferencing and information on how to save on web conferencing for you and your company.

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Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Why You Need A Conference Call Line For Your MLM Business?

Their are several reasons why having a conference call line for your mlm business is a smart idea. Here I will give you five good reasons why you should incorporate conference calls into your mlm business and how to go about getting one for yourself.

1. You can use them to communicate new ideas and train your downlines.

2. They are on 24/7 so you can have your business going all the time.

3. They are very in expensive depending on how high tech you want to go with them prices range from my favorite business expense for my mlm business Free, up to $100.00 or more.

4. You have the opportunity to really position yourself in your mlm company by doing your own presentations which automatically makes you a instant leader.

5. You can record the calls and give your mlm downlines the ability to record the calls.

The bottom line here is conference calls should be included in your business if you are in a mlm business because they work. If you are not taking advantage of them you are problably wasting your money on tools such as Cd's & Dvd's from the mlm company you are currently marketing.

So Get out their do a google search on some free teleconference lines and find one that suits your needs.

Be Creative with how you use the conference call with your business the above ideas are just some of the ways you can incorporate them into your mlm business but there is many others.

The main thing is get out their and make it happen.

Tim Ogren is a Certified Graduate in the Art and Science of Marketing and Expert in Internet Marketing Ad Copy and Telephone he has a passion for helping others achieve success.

"Home Business Marketer" Tim Ogren -Founder http://homebusinessmarketer.blogspot.com/

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Free Web Conference Calling Solutions Save You Money And Allow You To Conduct Conference Calls

The World Wide Web has changed the face of how the world lives and not just with free web conferencing calling. For instance, want a date? Head over to the Internet, looking for movie reviews before plopping down seven bucks on a matinee? Rotten Tomatoes probably has just what you're looking for. You don't even have to brave the winding Thanksgiving Eve lines at the supermarket anymore, just order your groceries online via Peapod. And if the web is helping you keep money from flying out of your pocket while indulging in life's little guilty pleasures, it is also helping you save time and money on the expenses related to business travel. Just look at the influence of web conference software on the business world and check out how you can find it for free!

What Is Web Conferencing?

Sure, jet-setting it around the globe in the name of closing the deal can be exciting, but on whose dime? Web conferencing is an ever expanding system of holding group meeting and other types of presentations over the Net. Getting it's start back in the early nineteen nineties, web conferencing used to refer to those not so private business dealing that took place on a message board. Today, web conferencing refers to live messages, as well as those placed on a forum or bulletin board. Think of the old-fashioned telephone conference with a new age spin and web conference software helps make it all happen.

The History of Web Conferencing Software

It was the late nineties and, as usual, Microsoft was on the forefront of founding everything in innovation. The Microsoft Company designed the first web conference software program with NetMeeting. And since the market for web conferencing was expanding, a number of software companies followed suit, coming up with an impressive display of virtual conferencing programs turning modern day business topsy-turvy. Some companies that began to develop web conference software included Oracle, Global Services, Macromedia, Interwise, GoToMeeting, Cisco, Elluminate and Placewire, which was snatched up by Microsoft in late 2006 in their effort to begin phasing out NetMeeting.

How Web Conferencing Works

Have you ever wished that you could just show up at your next business meeting in flip-flops and the old Yankees jersey that you wear as a nightshirt? Well, now you can. During a web conference, participants sit down at their computer and wait to be connected to the other participants through the help of the Internet. That's where web conferencing kicks in; each meeting member is able to observe what is on the presenters screen as a result of the screen-sharing component of web conference software. The really stand out feature about screen sharing is that it can be programmed for voice or text which really adds to the feel of a real business meeting.

Free Web Conference Calling Solutions

New age free web conference calling solutions sport the unique feature of letting someone else foot the bill so that you don't have to. There are a number of conferencing programs that offer free trials followed by discounted membership. And then there's the sleek sophistication of programs like Skype that offers sporty features like web conference calls, high-speed conferencing and voicemail at a very affordable price. For example, how does free sound to you? Some other web conference calling programs with free features are GoToMeeting, Meet Me Now, GoMeetNow, Marratech, Microsoft' Office Live Meeting.

Features of Web Conference Software

The convenience is just half of the attraction of web conference software, the features are also an added perk. Web conference software features include PowerPoint and other slide presentations, spreadsheet and file sharing, text messaging, voice conferencing, polls and surveys.

For more ways to save money and improve the communication and efficiency of your business with free web conference calling try visiting BestConferenceCallingServices.com where you will quickly and easily find information on web conference calling, audio conference calling and video conference calling.

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9 Proper Conference Call Etiquette For A Better Conference Calling Experience

When you have a conference call rather it is from business to business, or business to an employee at home or abroad conducting business, it is important that the conference calling experience is productive and smooth sailing. No matter what role you play in the conference call, it is necessary that you maintain the proper etiquette for conference calls.

Before we get into the conference call etiquette, let us look at some of the things that could go wrong as a result of a bad conference call. You might not believe it, but there are many.

Here are some repercussions of a conference call gone bad:

Morale - If the proper etiquette is not followed, it might create some bad feelings between workers. You might find that it is harder to work with these employees as a result. Many people expect that their conference call will run with complete smoothness, no interruptions, and productivity, otherwise it is a complete waste of their time and yours.

Missed Deadlines - If there are constant interruptions or the conference call runs in a disorganized manner, things might be misunderstood. This could mean that an important deadline is missed because things were not correctly understood.

Misunderstandings - While this goes along with the missed deadlines, so many negative outcomes could arise from a misunderstanding. If for any reason, those on your conference call do not completely understand what you are telling them, it could result in not only missed deadlines, but a loss of customers, loss of revenue, loss of employees, or loss of business all the way around.

Getting it right the first time

Now that you know a few of the many problems that could arise from a conference call gone bad, it is time to take a look at the proper conference call etiquette. Every person on the conference call should practice these things. However, you cannot control the things that other people do or do not do; therefore, the only thing you can do is focus on yourself and your own etiquette and hope that everyone follows suit.

1. Quiet is the key - Make sure, when you are on the conference call that you are in a very quiet room, away from any disturbances. This will make sure that you hear everything that is going on and keep the misunderstandings to a minimum. It is impossible to keep the misunderstandings at bay if you have a dog barking, machines running, or people talking in the background.

2. The Telephone Equipment - Make sure that you are using a phone that will minimize the noise in the background. Some telephone and most all cell phones will pick up even the slightest noise or interference, which will not only cause troubles for you hearing the speakers, but others as well.

3. Using Telephone Technology - The mute button does wonders, but make sure you know how to use it. The mute button should be used if there is a lot of background noise that you simply cannot control or if someone is particularly talkative. Of course, make sure you know how to un-mute for when it is your turn to speak or answer a question.

4. Time - Make sure you set the conference call up in advance and let everyone know all information such as pass code or phone number. It is also necessary that you take time zones in to consideration if you have people across several time zones to include on the conference call.

5. Being on Time - If you are the conference call leader, you want to start right on time. Do not wait for others if they are late. People on the call want to start right away, because there may be other business they need to attend to. If you are simply in the call, be on time, you do not want to miss anything that might be important.

6. Introductions - Make sure that every person on the call introduces himself or herself. This will allow for building relationships and getting people to open up and feel comfortable.

7. Clarification - Not everyone will be able to tell who is who by the voice. Make sure before anyone speaks that his or her name is said first. For example, "this is Bob, could you repeat that company name again".

8. Eating - Never eat while you are on a conference call, who wants to hear chewing in their ear? If you must get a drink of water, put the call on mute so no one will have to hear the emitted sounds. This includes chewing gum.

9. Keep on Topic - Do not fill the call with unnecessary talk. Keep to the point, because remember there may be several people on the call that have other pressing things to do.

With the above proper conference call etiquette rules, you will find that the conference calls runs in a much more smooth and efficient manner. Keeping the proper etiquette in mind while on the conference call will make the entire call that much more productive for everyone.

Huzaili Aris is the webmaster of http://www.conferencecall101.com.Starting a conference call is not as complex as some people think. It is the easiest way to save you time and money for your business. Find more information on conference calls by visiting our website

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Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Advantages and Disadvantages of Conference Calling

As businesses evaluate the type of conference calling that is right for them they will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each. In this article we will evaluate and compare the three major types of conference calls including audio, web, and video conferencing.

The biggest advantage, for many companies, in choosing audio or web conferencing over video conferencing is the cost. Audio conferencing tends to be the cheapest. Virtually the only costs involved when choosing audio conferencing is the cost of a telephone and then the charge of a long distance call. Many companies already have phones with a built-in speakerphone and if not they can be purchased for as little as $100.

However there are disadvantages in choosing audio conferencing as well. The first distinct disadvantage is that businesses lose personal relations when all they hear is a colleague's voice. Jokes and remarks can be taken the wrong way or be offending when those involved can not see a caller's smile of facial expression. Another disadvantage to audio conferencing is that the quality of the call declines as additional locations are added. When several parties are involved the chance of two of them talking at the same time are great and neither of them will have their thoughts heard.

Web conferencing offers its rewards and shortcomings as well. While web conferencing can be free, it is usually in the companies best interest to choose to pay a little more to avoid annoying ads and pop ups. Web conferencing is especially useful for business calls that involve viewing digital files because these files can be sent in an instant via email to all parties involved. Documents can be viewed, analyzed and returned so they can be discussed all at once rather than waiting and communicating through mail or several phone calls. Web conferencing also allows more than one person to talk or type at once without going unheard.

Like any type of conference calling though, web conferencing also has its disadvantages. One of these down sides is that, again, it is difficult to gauge a person's seriousness or humor in a comment. There is no personality in a typed sentence. It is also difficult for those who are uncomfortable with technology to use web conferencing efficiently.

Finally the biggest advantage to video conferencing is that it offers a visual connection with the other attendees. When using video conferencing callers are able to view each other on a TV screen and hear each other through the speaker system. Associates are able to hear each other's voices, put a voice to a face, and understand each other's joke and comments. Financially, the cost of video conferencing is quite a bit higher due to the equipment that is involved. If equipment is not high quality it can also be limiting because the video feed can be jerky or delayed. Whatever type a business chooses, every type of conference call has it ups and downs.

Jeremy Thompson is the author of ConferenceCallingServicesGuide.com your online guide to conference calling and conference calling services. Visit his site at ConferenceCallingServicesGuide.com.

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About Audio Conference Calls

The world is getting smaller by the minute. How so? With the advancements in technology and communication, even people from opposite ends of the earth are able to transact business and talk in real time, without having to go face to face and meet personally.

Because of these developments, businessmen worldwide no longer find the need to travel from country to country just to meet a particular offshore site manager for a weekly status report. All they need to do is connect to the Internet and, presto, the job is done.

There are many kinds of communication tools we can use to talk with other people in different locations. Some communication devices allow for audio conferencing, for instance, while others support video streaming in real time, to allow participants to view each other during an online transaction.

They can have as few as two to as many as a dozen participants. And because technology is advancing every minute, before we know it, they might soon be able to accommodate hundreds of people all at once, as in a plenary. Congressmen might soon find it useless and tedious to meet in one session hall to make legislative decisions (though it is hoped that this does not happen, because they hold the future of the country in their hands and would more likely make better decisions if they are face to face).

Some audio conference call features only allow some people to listen in to a particular conversation. This usually happens during status checks or monthly reports, which do not really require much participation from everyone. This kind of audio conference call enables a person to listen, but does not allow him or her to talk.

Meanwhile, there are audio conference calls that allow all participants not just to listen in but to join in on the conversation, as well. This usually happens in board meetings where not all directors are in the same room. Directors are able to give their inputs about a certain issue even if they're thousands of miles away from the actual meeting itself.

Families can set up virtual reunions using audio and video conference calls at a much lower cost, compared to traveling from one place to another, which can be both physically taxing and heavy on the pocket. Audio and video conferencing are practical and cheap alternatives to face to face meetings and deals.

The huge advancements in the telecommunications in the last decade has improved the quality of local, as well as, global communication for all of us, from cell phones to global video teleconferencing we all have learn to expect only smooth operations and fast solutions from the communication leaders in the market of conference calls.

Conference calls are the new meeting rooms, they are the modern replacement of huge corporations offices, learn about the amazing achievements and developments in Audio Conference Calls and ways to communicate better faster.

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Monday, March 17, 2008

Conference Calling Services Extra Features

Choosing a conference calling service is not always simple as there are many types and options available. The type conference calling service a business chooses will need to fit their requirements and help their business to run more efficiently. The number and form of added options will also have to fit their needs bus also fit into their budget. A company should always remember that when choosing a service it should be what they need not what they desire. Conference calling features can add up and businesses don't need to break the bank when choosing them.

First, a company will need to choose which type of conference calling service is best for them. Un-moderated, pre-arrange conference is a popular option for smaller companies who do not use conferencing very often. When conferencing calling needs are low this type of service is extremely economical because it charges by the minute per participant. There is also the option of instant access conference calling which allows companies that use conferencing calling services frequently to not have to arrange the meeting in advance. When using this type of conference calling service a moderator is issued call-in numbers and room-access numbers that can be handed out and dialed in at a moment's notice. However, there are some limitations to instant access conference calling including limits set on the number of attendees. Also, there are not many add-on options available with instant access conferencing.

After choosing a type of conference calling service, businesses also have the option of adding extra features that can help enhance their conference calling needs. One of the most common add-on features is a meeting entry announcement function. When using this function, anyone who dials into the call will need to record their name prior to being admitted into the conferencing room. Once they are admitted their recorded name will play so all participant will know who is present.

Another popular add-on feature is combining voice conferencing with web conferencing, which includes not just hosting the conference call through the internet but adding a visual component. This visual component allows participants to follow along with a slide show presentation, discussion of a document or other graphic representation. This feature is especially beneficial to companies who have employees that travel often or companies that need to share data with associates across the globe.

A third add-on feature for conference calling services is the ability to record conference calls. Some services offer playback over the web which is available almost instantly after the meeting. Other services send recordings as a data file that need to be downloaded in order to play it back on a computer. Depending on your businesses needs some services can also provide a tape or CD of the recording. When choosing these extra add-on features make sure you keep in mind the budget and needs of your company. There is no need to spend money on a feature that will not be utilized regularly.

Jeremy Thompson is the author of ConferenceCallingServicesGuide.com your online guide to conference calling and conference calling services. Visit his site at ConferenceCallingServicesGuide.com

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Friday, March 14, 2008

Free Web Conference Calling

Sometimes in the search for a cheap conference calling solution, companies will often run across websites offering free web conference calling. Are these services offering a real service? Are there any hidden fees or gimmicks? In most cases believe it or not, there are no gimmicks. Certain service provider do in fact provider absolutely free web conferencing calling services. Many companies have discovered the benefits of using a free conferencing service. Using free conferencing services provide easy conferencing services.

Several of the options available provide quality audio conferencing and often are available on a reservationless system. Now in order to use most free services, it is usually required that your company sign up with the conferencing company. After signing up for the service you are provided either a series of toll numbers for attendees to call or in some cases depending on whether the conferencing provider offers additional services at a fee, they will offer a toll free number for calls.

Some are under the impression that all free web conference calling providers limit the controls a moderator has over the call. For the most part basic controls are included and provided free of charge. For web conferences some basic software may be needed, if using a trial version for free some limits to the options available will apply. Other limitations may include a limit to the number of people that can call in, and a limit to the length of the call. While for some companies this may seem too restrictive for their needs, other businesses find that the requirements fit well within their needs.

Signing up for free conference calling is a very simple process and is usually done on the Internet. Just locate the free web conference call provider that works for you and follow the online instructions. Sometimes you can even set up a conference call the same day. So the question many have then is how is it that these companies can afford to offer free web conference calling services? In some cases there is a charge for the software license.

While free versions of the software are available they are only very basic. The licensed software opens up all of the features. In still other cases some companies will only provide a series of toll numbers for the free conference call. The only charges you end up paying are normal long distance charges from your phone company. In a case like this it is sometimes a cheaper option to choose a paid service since they will then provide you with a toll free number. These are just a few examples. Search hard enough and you can find a free web conference calling plan that works for you and your company.

Dean Iggo is the webmaster of CheapConferencingSolutions.com a website providing the best web conferencing solution resources and information on the best services and providers for you and your company

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11 Things To Remember When Choosing A Conference Call Service

A conference call involves the communication between a calling party and more than one listener. There are numerous conference call services available, making it difficult to make a quick decision. The service that you choose will ultimately depend on the expectations and uses you wish get out of your conference calls. For some, only a few details matter, such as price, while others are in need of advanced services like on-the-spot technical support. Below are a few factors to consider when choosing the conference call service that is most compatible with your needs.

Business Conference Calls

When it comes time to report quarterly stats, many companies turn to conference calls. This allows them to communicate the ups and downs of their business to interested parties. A higher-level company executive, such as the CEO, often reads the company reports. Once the results are revealed, the call is then accessible for others to join in, namely stock analysts, who come with a slew of questions. Businesses may also use conference calls to promote their products or services. Seminar leaders may open a conference call to the public to share their marketing techniques or business strategies for free or a small price.

Entertainment-Based Conference Calls

Today, people are looking for more and more ways to make new friends or find the companion of their dreams. When bars and clubs get to be too much, the allure of chatting on a "party line" becomes increasingly appealing. Entertainment-based conference calls are used to provide a break from boredom, as well as a way to socialize with others. Participants call a phone number set aside for this purpose and are plugged into a whole new world of mingling and flirting.

Audio vs. Visual

Audio conference calls are less expensive and require less equipment than visual conferencing. Web conference calls also open up a host of potential problems, such as malfunctioning chat, instant message, and web cam services. Streaming video may also pose concerns. Although the capabilities of visual conference calls are vast and have a better way of getting the point across, depending on your intended audience, the concept might be too advanced.

To use visual conferencing as a business tool, you will also have to familiarize yourself with an assortment of software selections and other online options. Learning visual conferencing techniques is a process. For example, include too many large files and you may end up with a communication problem.

Conference Call Limitations

What kind of conference call do you want? Some services allow the called party to speak during a call, while other selections only allow called parties to listen to what is being said.

Conference Call Set-Up

Do you want to control how conference calls are received and made? Calling parties can place calls to desired participants or entrance to a call is gained by calling a special phone number.

Reservation vs Non-Reservation

When you choose a service offering reservation-less conference calls, you will enjoy more freedom. Calls can be placed at any time without speaking to an operator or setting up an appointment. Reservation services require you to schedule your call ahead of time.

Conference Call Commands

What sort of capabilities do calling parties have when choosing a service? Things to consider include the ability to get operator assistance, mute and unmute participants, alter ringing tones and record conversations.

Call Planning is Essential

Knowing how long your conference call will be allows you to shuffle along participants to meet time expectations. As a rule of thumb, a conference call centers on an hour or more. Larger groups demand longer time frames, but without the use of video, it is difficult to keep the interest of all participants.

Usually, about 1-3 minutes are given to each participant to voice his or her opinions. Often, an hour-long conversation handles about 1-2 topics. Another important factor pertaining to conference calls is to prepare for last-minute technical issues. Be aware of applicable time zones and schedule a conference call that will accommodate all of your desired participants. When choosing a service, make sure all customer and technical support will be handled in a timely manner.

Billing Plans

Accepting a variety of credit cards, some services offer per minute pricing plans. Once the conference call is completed, a call summary is emailed to you with all of the details. Applicable charges are then placed on your credit card. Additional plans include flat rate unlimited and monthly plans. Some companies offer a flat monthly rate of $60 for a maximum of five people that allows unlimited usage for the month.

Special Services

Will the conference call service you choose provide you with extra services? Depending on your needs, you may desire to have a taped recording of your conference call. Some services offer this luxury for a flat fee (around $25). Some charge an hourly rate if you wish to have a transcript of your call. Rebroadcasts are also offered through some services for a fee. For an extra charge, operator assistance might be available, which helps with the moderation of conference calls.

Several Conference Call Service Companies Reviewed

Accu Conference: This on-demand, fully automated toll-free service offers reservation-less service, free call recordings and live in-call web control for 9.9 cents per line. Operator service costs 13.9 cents. Unlimited use, flat-rate conferencing is offered, starting at $99 per month.

No Cost Conference : Offers free, reservation-less conference call capabilities, available 24 hours a day. You will receive a pin and dial-in phone number once a quick registration is completed. Free and cheap conference call services are good for short notice calls and limited budgets. With this option, reliability of service does become a concern.

WebEx: Offers conference call services, as well as helpful products, such as Meeting Center, Training Center, Support Center and Sales Center. They offer different solutions to better serve small, medium and large companies. They also offer decent live technical support and pay-per-use services.

OnConference: This service offers no set-up fee and has a listed price of 19 cents per minute per person with or without toll-free access.

Contact Call: Highly recommended for their operator-assisted services.

When you conduct careful comparisons and research on the many conference call services, you will be able to take advantage of a wealth of savings that regular phone services cannot provide.

Huzaili Aris is the webmaster of http://www.conferencecall101.com.Starting a conference call is not as complex as some people think. It is the easiest way to save you time and money for your business. Know all the information about making conference calls by visiting our website.

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Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Are Cheap Conference Calls Beneficial?

Many service providers in the market introduced cheap conference calls for the users, so as to maximize the customer-base by encouraging more and more people to opt for their services. The reason behind offering cheap conference calls is that in most cases, the service providers are having their own networks for conference calling. That means the overheads or additional costs are not there, which otherwise are added in fees charged from the customers. Overall, it is a very good option for organization to use and gauge the performance of service providers, before the make final decision to choose the best fitting service provider.

The service of cheap conference calls is provided to the customers by giving a toll free number along with a dial-in number for the participants. The host is simply required to call on that toll-free number and can conduct the conference thereafter. Usually cheap conference calls are reservation-less type of conference calling, which means that there is no requirement of a reservation for the conference call and one can make a conference call anytime.

Cheap conference calls do not mean that the service providers will provide limited services to its users. There is nothing like this and service providers provide conference call management systems to ensure higher performance. However, such conference calls have an automated system, because it needs minimization of the cost factor; yet one can ask for operator assistance, if the requirement arises.

A cheap conference call can be the best option for business purposes, training institutions, and anyone interested in making a conference call. With such a conference call, one can be connected with two, three, or up to two hundred people, in general, at the same time for conversation. Also there is no need of any extra equipment to be installed except the telephone system, which is sufficient to enable the host to make a conference call.

Small businesses and other types of organizations who have just started their ventures look to cheap conference calls as beneficial, for, their budget arrangements and costs are not as big as for settled companies. To automate the system of communication, and still to avoid the cost of heavy equipments, travel, and space, conference calling facilities are best options. So, we can say that overall, cheap conference calls are beneficial, as they are nothing short in the technical aspects, but at the same time provide economical options for the users.

For more information on Cheap Conference Calling, please visit www.call-conference-services.com

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The 9 Elements of a Good Recruiting Conference Call

Do you know how to run a good recruiting Conference Call. If you incorporate the below 9 elements your next call is sure to be a success

1 - Format

You need to have a Format. An Example format might be

  • Introduction
  • Presentation
  • Testimonials
  • Reactions
  • Q & A
  • Wrap up

For The Introduction someone should introduce the main speaker to the conference call or he/ she can introduce themselves. Next you do the Presentation which is discussed in more detail in elements 2 - 6. The Testimonial, Reaction, Q & A and Wrap Up are covered in Elements 7-9

2 - Excitement

You need to generate excitement, You want to have lot's of people on the call all excited about the Business. You want to encourage members to attend the Call even if they don't have anyone on the Call.

3 - Informative

You want to give information about the Company. You want to highlight the Key Points of the Compensation Plan. You want to talk about the Products of course. You also want to talk about the Company Support. What type of tools does the company Provide. What type of training does the company provide.

4 - Motivating

Build a Dream. Ask some of the people what their Dream is, Build a Vivid Word picture of some of the dreams.

If they talk about a dream house, ask them if it has an Ocean or a Lake View. Does it have a Mountain View as well. Is it a ranch or a Multi-Story. What does the kitchen Look like. Do they have a Media Room or a Regulation Indoor Basketball Court. How's about a 9 Hole Private Golf course in the Back Yard. A Buddy of mine has a 2 Lane Bowling Alley in his basement.

If they dream about financial security. Ask them if it means Private Schools and Colleges for the Children and Grand Children. Maybe it means early retirement for them with lot's of trips and cruses and No Money Worries ever.

5 - Short But Sweet

Try and keep the actual presentation between 15 and 20 Minutes

6 - Testimonials

It is really a good idea to have 2 or 3 people talk about what the company has done for them.

7 - Reactions

After the Testimonial ask the people a simple question what do you think. Get 2 or 3 reactions and then move on.

8 - Q & A

Open the line for about 10 minutes worth of questions. Answer each question honestly and truthfully. If you don't have an Answer offer to get it for them.

9 - Wrap Up

End the call and have the call to action. Encourage the attendees to get with the people that invited them to the call to move on to the next step.

Mike Makler has been Marketing Online Since 2001 When he Built an Organization of over 100,000 Members

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Conference Call Decision: Web Conference Calling vs Offline Conference Calls

Web conference call is in its infancy and many people are not aware of its multifarious application. Initially, web conference call was used as an audio conference call and was limited to presentation calls. Live video conferencing became possible with the arrival of broadband. The right amalgamation of several features of Internet, computers and software has transformed web conference call to the level of face-to-face meeting.

The greatest advantage that web conference calling has over offline conference calls is that it gives real time interaction with several people. When implemented properly it is just like having a discussion in your conference hall. Unlike most offline conference calls, in web conference call the people engaged in conversation can share and exchange ideas by illustrating it on the whiteboard. This becomes very handy in cases where only drawings can clearly explain the idea. Since this is done in real time with the support of audio, the effect it has is far reaching and cannot be matched by offline conference calls.

Web conference calling is an ideal conference call service for business as it gives the opportunity to discuss issues and put them to vote and fix the issue on hand. This means that by sitting in your office in Manhattan through the conference call you can talk with your subordinates in any part of the world and discuss the business plans. There is no limit to the number of people who can take part in the digital web conference. Offline conference call has the limitation of number and when there are more than three locations it throws up several difficulties. The number of location is never a problem in web conference calling.

Conference call through web has certain limitations like web cam positioning. It also requires high amount of concentration from the participants. Most of the limitations associated with web conference call can be easily solved. Several business establishments now prefer web conference call over offline conference call as it saves money, time and energy.

We offer the best web conference calling info. Check it out on the Conference call services for business guide. More precious conference calls info on http://www.leandernet.com

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Monday, March 10, 2008

Conference Call Service Options and Their Advantages That Will Save You Money

Conference call services are very beneficial to those who have groups of people who need to collaborate from various locations. The choice about what type of conference call service is needed depends on the needs of the group.

A basic audio only service is sufficient for some. For others, a web solution providing video or application sharing may be necessary. Some find a combination of the two to be most effective. What combination is the best depends on what the group needs to accomplish during collaboration and what resources are available.

For multi-party conference calls, the audio-only option is ideal. Conference call participants dial a central number in order to connect to the conference call. The party who is conducting the conference call can pay for every participant who joins the call or they can have the conference call set up that callers pay their phone companies for long distance charges.

For greater impact, the web conference call option is a good choice. In web conference calls, the moderator can show participants visual presentations such as slides, videos, clips and graphics. With the visual aspect added to the conference call, it is like conducting a standard meeting in the conference room.

Businesses and organizations can benefit from using conference call services. Perhaps the greatest benefit of using a conference call service is that meetings can be held whenever possible. There are no travel costs, a host of other unnecessary expenses, and lost productivity. Those who are not able to participate in conference calls can listen to conference call recordings at a later time.

Many businesses today remain competitive and are able to compete globally because they take advantage of various communication technologies. Communication technologies like conference calls help many businesses avoid unnecessary expenses and increase productivity.

Looking for a very cost effective video conference calling provider? Try visiting BestConferenceCallingServices.com for more information, reviews and money saving audio, video and web conference calling providers

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How to Best Use Conference Calls

Sometimes when we hear the words conference call, we think of just a three way conversation between family members or just a few business associates. But now conference calls are being used much more than they were many years ago.Gone is the apprehension which was felt when learning of a forthcoming conference call. It is now a routine occurence.

Modern electronic advances have now made conference calls much easier to place not only by just acquaintances or business directors but also by the general public. The reason for the upsurge in conference calls is that it has become much cheaper than it used to be many years ago and conference calls have turned out to be very easy to access.Conference calls are now a recognized and poweful engine for sales and marketing efforts and campaigns.

One of the most effective use of conference calls is on the occasion when a complex product requiring the acquisition of new information is needed to be imparted to multiple people scattered in many areas. When this happens questions can be directed to the lead people and answered immediately. Conference calls are conducted in real time and thus detailed demonstrations and explanations can be resolved immediately.

Conference calls are now substantially enhanced by the use of the internet and on line systems. Basically conference calls are computer driven therefore a custom made program can be downloaded to all the participants and each once can view the details of the presentations on his or her screen. The software used in this type of conference calls allows voice communications between all participants thus clarifying difficult concepts.

When a conference calls is made as a sales call it is much more effective than the old fashioned impromptu visit to a potential client. With a conference call the presenter can instantly see who in the company he or she is targeted shows interest in the product and who is hostile. This is a tremendous advantage when the time comes to close the sale since thanks to the conference call most the ground work has been done.In additon if the presenter of the product has his or her own managers on the line as well, it can be determined which one has the most rapport with the client to be and which ones best follow the guide lines eastablished by the lead person.

One of the fall-out of the popularity of conference calls is that many consumer products have been manufactured at reasonable prices which in turn has increased everyone's familiarity with the concept of conference calls. Of course many new companies have been formed as specialists in providing conference calls and they offer full turn key operations and complete service back-ups.

Conference calls can also be used for social interactions among groups of people sharing a common affinity. During the conference calls people can virtually roam aroung the electronic meeting place and communicate with different people of similar interests.

For more information on conference calling see the conference calling services section of TheFreeAdForum.com directory at: http://www.thefreeadforum.com/infowizards/CAT/Conference-Calling-Services_57_1.html

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Conference Calling Centers

Conference calling refers to more than two people communicating at the same time through a common phone call. At times, it may not be possible for you to personally attend a meeting. In circumstances like this, a conference-calling center could be your only hope. Conference calling centers help you attend live meetings online. They are more commonly known as real-time meetings and are possible with the help of an Internet browser. Conference calling centers provide interactive, multimedia services, online data and also have facilities for video conferencing.

Businesses are growing every day. At the same time, different types of businesses may need different types of conference calling facilities to keep connected with their customers and counterparts. To meet the growing demand, many companies function as conference calling centers. They assist in connecting different departments of an organization and offer tailor-made packages to suit the needs of clients.

Conference calling centers always keep up with the latest technology and generate extensive network functionality for their clients. They help connect you to the right person .To assist their clients overcome functional breakdowns, back up systems and self-diagnostic tools are set up to monitor the functions of their systems. These services are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

If you want to contact a conference-calling center, you just have to surf the Internet. There are many conference-calling centers available online. There are many advantages using a conference calling centers. They offer to solve the communication issues of industries with an economical approach. Conference calling centers allow businesses to keep contacts all over the world.

Conferences provides detailed information on Conferences, Advantage Conferences, Parent Teacher Conferences, Medical Conferences and more. Conferences is affiliated with Trade Show Exhibit Booths

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Friday, March 7, 2008

Discounted Conference Calling Rates

Communication is the key in a global society. Many of us need to communicate with people all over the world, in order to do our jobs and live our lives properly. Until fairly recently, this was no easy feat. The cost was prohibitive and the equipment was unreliable. Well, it seems like every other day, new advances in communications technology that either improve equipment efficiency, lowers costs or both are coming to the forefront. In addition, corporations are taking the initiative to expand their communications operations.

Large companies and small business can take advantages of the many discounted conference calling rates that are available If your company makes many conference calls, a flat rate monthly plan may be the way for you to go. If you only make conference calls once and a while, then the 'per minute' plan is probably the way to go.

There are many conference calling service providers who are offering great discounts and a lot of money can be saved. For instance, USA origination service features low intrastate rates and 2.95? interstate rates

Direct digital connections, industry-leading technologies, high volume business and relationships with major long distance providers enable some of the companies to provide people with better audio and web conferencing features at prices 50% less than other conference call service providers.

Outstanding (USA-48 origination) service features low intrastate rates and 2.7? interstate rates. The service also handles six second billing with an 18-second minimum. Companies can signup on line, and it is available for commercial and residential. These services are only available in certain locations. For more information check the Internet.

Some companies offer world low rate discount long distance, calling cards, toll free services that will save you 60% on all of your communications needs.

Conferences provides detailed information on Conferences, Advantage Conferences, Parent Teacher Conferences, Medical Conferences and more. Conferences is affiliated with Trade Show Exhibit Booths

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Different Types of Conference Calls You Can Use in Your Business

For companies that use conference calling services, there are a variety of options available. Regardless of the options, there are a few things most conference calling services have in common. In this article, we will discuss five main types of conference calls.

The most common form of conference call is a reservationless conference call. Reservationless conference calling services don't require much set up before use. You simply enter a phone number and access code. In order to receive calls, you must also provide those who will call you with a separate access code. Thus, the entire procedure involves you having to enter a number and access code and have the other participants call and enter an access code.

The operator assisted conference call involves an operator to record and monitor the conference call. This kind of conference call can be more expensive and often requires you to schedule your call time in advance. The amount of time available for operator assisted conference calls varies by service provider.

The easiest type of conference call to initiate is the operator dialed conference call. Operator dialed conference calls allow you to dedicated more of your time and energy to the topics of conversation rather than to configuring calls. The operator takes care of calling and adding each participant to the call at the scheduled times. The operator dialed conference call is the easiest when any participants are new to conference calling.

The newest type of conference call is Internet conference calling, which is sometimes referred to as web conferencing. This type of conference calling can require a lot of setup and varies a lot from one service to another. It may require special software to be installed in each participant computer. It may also require that participant be thoroughly familiar with using the software used. Often a support technician needs to be available to solve any unexpected problems that come up.

One simple type of conference call to note is three-way calling. Businesses often find this simple type of conference call to be the most economical if they only do a few small conference calls a month. Three-way calling, which can in some cases include more than three parties in a call, is typically set up through the phone company and has a nominal monthly charge as well as a small usage charge.

Hopefully this article has taught you a little bit about the conference calling options available to businesses. If you're in charge of a business, you now know what to look for and what the sellers are talking about when you shop for the right conference calling plan for your business. If you simply work at a business that is implementing conference calling, you should now have an idea of what to expect and how things will work.

Find more valuable advice and tips on all things related to conference calling to include web conference calling, audio conference calling and video conference calling at BestConferenceCallingServices.com located at http://www.bestconferencecallingservices.com

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Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Buying Advices for Conference Call Services

Conference calling is gaining great popularity due to its features and benefits to the business, such as reduced costs, time saving, easily accessible, easy to operate, and many more. These services are beneficial for both small and large businesses, as using the conference call service, the host can be connected to two, three, or even a thousand people at the same time. But choosing a conference call service is a matter of concern, and needs attention. Below are some features which one must consider before buying any conference call service:

Flexibility of customizing the conference call service, including entry of a participant while the conference is going on, is a crucial feature for any conference calling service. It makes the service similar to meetings in-person. It is also better to check the capacity of the conference call service, as there is often a limit to the number of participants that can be included in a single call. Conference call services should also offer the option of sending documents to the participants through fax. Some conference call services offer sub-conferencing?a special feature that allows the participants to communicate privately during the conference, and then come back to the main conference. This type of feature is very helpful in cross-departmental conference calls, where people from same department can opt for the feature of sub-conferencing to discuss some points.

Uninterrupted connectivity of any conference calling system is one of the features that you should look for while buying the service. You can?t imagine the scenario when you and other participants are facing problems due to connectivity during active participation.

Apart from the basic features that all conference calling services should offer, some special and value-based services can also help to make your decision. Some services offer call recording services for future use, and translation services during the conference call. This may also include the transcription of conference calls, which are sometimes useful for the company. You can choose these features if you like, but there may be some extra charges for these.

Apart from above mentioned fields to analyze before buying conference call services, cost to be incurred is also significant, because the main purpose of conference calling is reduction in cost incurred. So you must compare quotes from different providers to find out the best option, and also the features that they are providing within that range of price. Some companies may also offer trial versions or some free calls for the checking-up of their services, and you should look to avail such opportunities to gauge the functioning of conference call services.

For more information about Conference Calling services, please visit http://www.call-conference-services.com

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Tuesday, March 4, 2008

How to Choose a Conference Call Service that's Right for Your Business

For businesses and organizations that use conference calls frequently, it is important to choose the right conference call service. Today, businesses are going global. Deals are made via conference calls; employees and employees who work off-site communicate through conference calls; meetings or seminars are held using conference calls.

Conference calling offers several options. Thus, when you are looking several conference call services, you should o have a criteria and a clear idea of what your company's or organization's needs are.

Would you like the option of an operator-assisted call or instant conferencing? If your company regularly conduct formal meetings, an operator-assisted call may be the best option. However, if your organization tends to be informal even during meetings or have spontaneous conferences, an instant conferencing option may be the ideal choice. A third option you can consider is web conferencing. Although this kind of conference call is gaining popularity, it will only work for your organization if the people who participate in your calls have the necessary software needed for the call as well as networking capabilities and reliable Internet connection.

You also need to consider if you want additional options such as roll-calls of participants wherein the names of individuals are announced as they join. You also need to consider if you need a conference call option that will let you conduct a moderated question-and-answer session after the conference. If you decide to go with web conferencing, would you want an option that will allow you to show presentations such as slides or movies?

After each conference call, do you want a recording of the call so that other people can listen to it? This conference call feature is particularly useful if some people missed the call. A recording of the conference can also help those who were present to listen to it again and refresh their memory.

Lastly, you also need to consider how much the different conference call services are charging. If your call is long and you used several sophisticated options for the call, the fees could be high. Thus, before you sign up for a conference call service, make sure that the company gives you a complete or comprehensive pricing structure.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Best Conference Calling Services.com where he provides more information on finding the best deals on audio, web and video conference calling that you can research in your pajamas on his website http://www.bestconferencecallingservices.com

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Web Conference Call - Web Conference Calling

Web conference call, as obvious from the name, is a process of holding meetings or live presentations using Internet as the platform. It should be noted that web conference calling is different from the discussion boards, as it involves the idea of real-time and live presentations; whereas, in discussion groups, only text messages are allowed. Though very recently, with the use of video cameras and other techniques, web conferencing calling is adopting almost whole of the video teleconferencing process, and sometimes experts refer to them as the same thing Any web conference calling requires some initial setup for each of the participants involved in it?each one must have a computer, and every computer should be connected to other participants through a reliable Internet connection. Web conference call involves the feature of audio and video?the presenter or the calling party shares the screen of its computer with other participants so as to enable them to see what is on its screen. The audio part is accompanied to this screen through telephone equipments or VOIP. Though it is not mandatory to use audio part in web conferencing, and some parties do like to use text versions to convey their messages.

Sometimes conventional corporate professionals and people who are not versed in the advanced technologies find it very difficult to adapt to the new system of conferencing, which is gaining firm hold in the business world. The use of web conferencing is breaking the boundaries of corporate sector and entering new arenas also. Web conference calling provides economic arrangement of meetings, and eliminates the need of travelling for conventional face-to-face meetings. Web conference calling is quick in its operation and saves a lot of time, apart from the fact that web conference calls can be recorded for playback option at later times.

Web conference calls are also helpful in business sectors that are more dependent of IT tools and computers. Application and file sharing features of web conference calls make it a must for all IT-based businesses. So, we can well-judge that web conference calling offers new vistas for the technology-based business, and at the same time, saves a lot of time and money for the other types of business.

For more information about Web Conference Calling, please visit http://www.call-conference-services.com

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Monday, March 3, 2008

Advantages of Conference Call Services

Conference calling works like a telephone call, which allows the calling-party to have more than one called-party to listen or to communicate. Conference calling can be customized as per requirements: the called-party can be allowed to speak or just make to listen to the audio portion of the calling-party. Conference calling has been a great asset to the business world, and it is also known as Audio Teleconferencing among the corporate professionals. Though conference calling has been used for quite a long-time, but some latest additions to its technology and infrastructure have rendered a new image to it, and have boosted its use in many other sectors apart from the business.

A conference call service certainly has advantages over conventional systems and methods for any business. The competition among the conference call service providers is increasing, and more and more features are emerging to assist the business. Some companies offer global dial-out, record and playback, security pass-codes, conference lock, group mute/un-mute, and roll call, etc., as specialised features of conference call services. It is clear that you can manage your budget better through these services, though the outcomes of these conferences are as effective as it had been with the conventional systems.

Well, with the advancement in technology and also the competition in the market, there are many services offered by companies. However if your conference includes some old managers, corporate professionals, and people who are not too used to the system of audio conference calls, it may not be a smooth process as you would have imagined! So, make sure that all participants for the conference are aware about the system that you are going to use.

Video teleconferencing, as clear from the name itself, is a technology that allows two or more locations or parties to interact through two-way video and audio transmissions, simultaneously. Video teleconferencing is one of the most advanced forms of conference calls, and has a tremendous effect on almost all aspects of business. Video teleconferencing is a relatively new technique and requires a lot of infrastructural setup, software, and network. However, with the advent of Internet, it has been made quite easy and economic, as more efficient video compression technologies were developed that permit desktop-based video teleconferencing.

For more information on Conference Call Services, please visit http://www.call-conference-services

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Sunday, March 2, 2008

International Conference Calls

When you are in business, you realize that keeping the lines of communication open are critical. When you conduct your business worldwide, it is even more important. Your business relies on sales people, clients, and colleagues, and if that are scattered all over the world, holding weekly meetings can be difficult.

This is where international conference calling can be critical to your business. It is imperative that you keep in contact with your staff and clients. With international conference calling, you can hold meetings anytime, and with anyone even if they are on opposite sides of the world. If you have a client in another country, by using international conference calling, you can still give a presentation as if they were sitting right next to you in the conference room.

With international conference calling, you can provide training to new employees that reside in different countries just as efficiently as if they were right in front of you. The world today offers new and innovation methods of conducting business. Conference calling has been around for years. But with the Internet came global trade, making it necessary for business and website owners to make themselves available virtually twenty-four hours a day.

In the past, weekly meeting meant the staff would have to go through the process of booking airline tickets, securing a hotel room, travel thousands of miles to attend the meeting and then return to their country, just to do it over again the next month. With technology developing everyday, there is no need to travel. International conference calling eliminates all that, giving the employees more time to be productive.

Even if your company is not on the Forbes 500 list, international conference calling is an affordable option for saving time and money. Setting up a time and date for the international conference call is fast and easy. Create an email with the time and date of the conference call and send. That?s it. The Internet is evolving everyday, and with it, new business tools are being developed. An alternative to international conference calling is one of these tools.

Internet conference calling is a service where a company acquires a ?conference room? by telephone. They then dial into the conference room using a telephone number and a special pin number. The company is considered the ?host?. Those who are involved in the conference call are also given a telephone number and a special pin number. All numbers are pre-assigned and can be used again. A special recording notifies the host when all parties are present on the phone line. There is also an option to record the conference for those who require a transcript.

Although international conference calling has been around since the 1950?s, many businesses of that era did not take advantage of it because of the time and expense it took to set up the call. Email was not available, and neither was fax machines. In order to set up a call, the notifications would have to go out by mail. The operators had to connect the calls, one in each country; there was also the dilemma of time zone differences.

International conference calling started to become popular and more versatile in the late 1980?s and with the rise of the Internet, International conference calling was taken to a whole new level. Today, the Internet contains many tools that can assist you to succeed in business; it is necessary to avail yourself of all of them.

Depending on the service that you use, the basic rate for international conference calling is anywhere for 1.2 cents to 12 cents per minute. If there are multiple people on the line, certain companies will charge an additional per person fee. Nevertheless, the use of International conference calling has become a vital part of communication worldwide and has evolved into something that even the average person can afford to use.

John Furnem is a dot com veteran, specializing in human resources and work psychology he has written articles about stress management and business themes. John currently writes Conference Calling tips and advice articles for http://conferencecallit.com

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Impact Your Bottom Line By Using Conference Call Services

If you work for a company that is trying to cut back on costs, while maintaining quality products and services, then conference call services may be your best alternative to regularly scheduled face-to-face meetings.

For example, instead of having your sales employees travel to a central location for an area-wide sales meeting, you can schedule an online conference call where all employees will meet and discuss pertinent issues of your business. By doing this you will save thousands of dollars in hotels, cabs, rental cars, food and lost time.

Conference call services involve creating an online meeting with 3 or more people using audio and/or video conferencing. Many different features are available for conferencing services, such as using online Powerpoint presentations, charts and more.

There are big advantages to using conference call services for your business.

  1. Save on expenses. Impact your bottom line. The major advantage is that you can impact your bottom line by reducing your expenses. Traveling is very expensive for today?s businesses. Airline tickets, gas prices, food prices and hotel prices have increased in price dramatically over the years.
  2. Save on time. Impact your bottom line. Not only will you save on the expenses involved with traveling, you will save time. Your employees can just stay at work and go to a meeting without having to spend hours in airports, traveling to destinations.
  3. Call a meeting quickly and easily. Also impact your bottom line. Do you have an urgent matter about your new product release and need to meet with your marketing people spread throughout the world? Online conferencing will get the job done.
  4. Live, real time discussions. If you communicate via group Emails or chat, there can be some delays in getting and sending responses. Make it happen live with online conferencing
  5. Flexible meetings. Do you have a Powerpoint presentation that you need to present to your sales force? Conference call services now offer flexibility in what you can use during your online meeting.
  6. Meet with as many people as you need to. Some services will allow you to meet with as many people as you need to, even up to thousands of people.
  7. Train your entire sales force, marketing department, etc without ever leaving your office. Are you used to traveling to multiple locations for training purposes? With conference call services, this is no longer necessary.
  8. Low costs. The price for conference call services is very competitive and you can even find online sites that offer it for free.
In short, if you want to impact the bottom line of your business, then conference call services may be the best choice for your next meeting. Just add up all of the expenses you incurred during your last meeting and calculate maybe 5% of that amount (costs for conference call services will vary depending on the features that you need) . How much money will you be saving?

Perriann Rodriguez is the founder of Bulls Eye Conference Calls, an online resource center for audio and video conference call services. Visit http://www.bullseyeconferencecalls.com for the best rates and deals in conferencing.

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