Not Dialed In: The Top Conference Call Offenders

Not Dialed In: The Top Conference Call Offenders

Not Dialed In: The Top Conference Call Offenders

The difference between an effective conference call and a choppy, counterproductive one boils down to preparation and basic consideration for others.

Tower of Babel

37% of surveyed professionals said the most distracting or annoying part of a conference call occurs when multiple people talk at the same time.

Sound Clutter

24% of those surveyed said excessive background noise stands out as the most distracting/annoying aspect of conference calls.

Partial Participation

9% said the most distracting/annoying moments of conference calls occur when attendees aren’t paying attention.

Silent Gesture

7% cite the times when attendees think they’re talking but they’re actually on mute as the top distracting/annoying aspect of these calls.

Musical Interlude

7% said the most distracting/annoying part of a conference call happens when attendees put the call on hold and prompt “hold” music.

Classic Conference Call Offenders: The Late Arriver

No one appreciates the participant who disrupts everything in mid-call. Make sure you have your dial-in details in advance.

Classic Conference Call Offenders: The Multitasker

Yes, your colleagues can hear you typing loudly or running a faucet during a call. So go to a quiet place and focus on the business at hand.

Classic Conference Call Offenders: The Techno Transgressor

It isn’t befitting for a CIO to misuse phone access codes or accidentally put himself on mute when speaking. Familiarize yourself with the conference call system before dialing.

Classic Conference Call Offenders: The Scene Stealer

Just as in face-to-face meetings, it’s considered bad form to interrupt participants or monopolize discussions during conference calls. Share the floor and—because there may be audio delays—wait a second before speaking to avoid talking over someone.