Conference call is a very convenient and cost effective way for having a meeting at any time in any place. This is because you don’t need to waste time and money in traveling expenses and all the fees associated with it. In fact, you can have a conference call right at the comfort of your own home, provided that you have a regular phone or the computer with broadband access. Imagine having to make all the dreaded last minute preparation just to attend a meeting, not very pleasant experience right?

Regardless, some people have the impression that conference call is all about bad and boring conversation over the phone. This is quite true because there are a lot of crappy conference call services in the market. But the blame should not be placed entirely on the companies that provide conference call services because there are many other factors that will directly affects the quality of a conference call.

Here are 5 simple tips you can use to improve your conference call experience. It doesn’t matter whether you’re having a business conference call or a casual conference call with your friends, the principles are the same.

Tip #1: Minimize or eliminate your background noise. This is by far the most common mistakes made by many people. Can you stand listening to something when there are some really annoying noise in the background? Usually this can be your neighbor who is renovating their house or the wind blowing in from the window.

People like to have a conversation call that doesn’t have any interference whatsoever in the background. If the problem is caused by a lousy microphone, replace it with a better one which doesn’t make any noise. If it’s a regular phone, close the doors or do anything you can to minimize the noise disturbance.

Tip #2: Identify yourself when you speak. This is very important in the beginning of a conference call. In a real meeting when you can see who is talking with your eyes. In a conference call however, your voice is the only thing that defines who you are.
Sometimes it can be very confusing when you get two people with almost the same voice. This is usually caused by the distortion on the speaker phone or conference bridge. Try to identify yourself before you speak to avoid the confusion.

Tip #3: Wait for your turn. Don’t you just hate it when someone cut into your conversation abruptly. Resist the temptation to interrupt when a person talks. This is basic politeness. Let a person finish what he / she has to say before you say something. This will make the other person feel respected and more opened to what you have to say. Some conference call services might even break or cut when two or more people are talking at the same time.

Tip #4: Stick to the topic, don’t digress. One of the major reasons why most conference calls end up in disaster is because they don’t have or don’t stick to the topic. A conference call without a topic is very bad and boring. People get bored easily when they don’t know what’s the purpose or topic of the conference call. Establish a topic and stick to it like glue if you want to have a successful conference call.

Tip #5: Always make sure there’s someone who has the power to control and manage the conference call. Just like in a channel, you need an operator to keep things in order. This is very important because sometimes, you might get people quarreling and things might get worse if someone doesn’t stop it.

To find more useful tips and information to help you getting started with teleconferencing, be sure to drop by our Conference Call [http://www.conference99.com/] website for more advice on how to create a positive conference environment for your audience.

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.

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.

Imagine having to close a 4.5 million-dollar deal without having to travel. In fact, not only is there no need for you to travel, all the transaction would cost you is a measly $200. Sounds too good to be true? It probably would be too good to be true, if not for conference calling.

Conference calls let you wheel and deal anywhere in the world for less than the price of a discounted plane ticket. Here’s why movers and shakers have long since made the move to conference calling:

1. Conference calls make information between service provider and client easier. At the same time, the exchange of ideas is sped up. You can get real-time answers to real-time questions.

2. Travel expenses are reduced, if not entirely eliminated. After all, when you can initiate, negotiate, or close deals through conference calls, there is absolutely no need for anyone to hop onto a plane.

3. All conferences are recorded for future reference. This ensures no vital information discussed during the meeting is lost.

4. Conference call pricing is very reasonable. It is so reasonable, in fact, it would barely make a dent in most company’s cash outlay. Conference call pricing options include plans that give you flat rates for all calls you place.

5. Conference calls improve communication lines. When everything and everyone is just a call away, there’s no reason to delay addressing problems and concerns. This is particularly beneficial to companies that have branches in different countries.

The Price Tag

Conference call pricing frequently features two schemes, namely per minute, per person, or per conference; and flat rate. The type of conference call pricing you should pick depends on the nature of your business’ calls. How often do you need to conference? How many people should be part of the conference?

The Per Scheme

Under a per minute, per person, or per call conference call pricing, the cost may be charged to each call you place, each minute you spend talking, or each conference that you call for. Costs vary among providers. Over the last five years, though, prices have dropped substantially, making this type of conference call pricing even more affordable. Expect to pay about $125 for a 6-person 45-minute conference. If your business is the type that seldom requires you to make calls, “pay per use” conference call pricing is best for you.

Flattening Costs with Flat Rates

Unlike “pay per use” conference call pricing, flat rate pricing is highly recommended for volume users. If your company is an international corporation that holds at least five conference calls a day, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out this flat rate conference call pricing is just the pill your business needs. You won’t have to pay peak rates or special charges for calls placed during holidays, for example.

Note that depending on the service provider, you may be charged additional fees for services like call recording, translation, and web conferencing.

In today’s world, everything comes with a price tag. Conference calls are no different. A prudent choice of conference call pricing can help you cut back on costs. Yes, there is no longer any need to sell your soul to the devil just to get your business up and running, and thriving.

You get what you pay for.

There is much truth to this statement. If you buy a used watch on Ebay for $10, consider yourself lucky if it comes with a wristband- or hands. If you buy a jalopy for a hundred bucks from a used car salesman named Guido, cross your fingers before you turn that key. And how about that 6-day, 5-night getaway cruise to the Bahamas, for $200? It is probably nothing more than a ferry boat ride and a tour of roach motels. In one sense, you do get what you pay for. But there is also truth in the statement that “the best things in life are free.” Watching a sunset, receiving a compliment, or seeing your firstborn child take her first step are all priceless moments. Free conference calling services can be one of life’s priceless moments, too.

How It Works

After singing up for free conference calling services, you get your own conference number. You can use this number for any conference calls within the United States, and sometimes around the world as well. Companies can afford to offer free conference calling services because they charge for other services. Nationwide long distance carriers cover the fees. Sometimes, however, extra charges are required to avail of special services, such as downloading files or adding more conference participants, the number of which exceeds the maximum presently allowed.

No Free Lunches

These extra charges prove that nothing in life is really free, including “free” lunches. Someone pays for them. Likewise, free conference calling services are not totally free, and in the long term, traditional conferencing services could save your company more money. In fact, participants can avail of free conference calling services by paying the local or long distance charge to access the company’s service computer. The exception is only when the conference organizer pays a small fee per minute per caller, to provide truly toll-free calling service to the caller.

To Free Or Not to Free – That Is the Question!

When choosing a conference calling service, find one that best meets your business’ needs. Factor in such considerations as budget, scope, and size. To begin with, determine if free conference calling services is what you really need. A “Fortune 500″ company that needs audio and web conferencing should go with a non-free conference call service provider. However, free conference calling services are generally ideal for small to medium-size businesses that can live without the extra services and features that full conference calling companies provide. Furthermore, if your company realizes that free conference services do not include toll-free calls and if they only need audio conferencing, then “free is key.”

Benefits, Benefits, Benefits

When considering free conference calling services, it is wise to look at the features that may be included.

* No waiting and no reservations

* Digital fiber-optic lines

* Support for Voiceover Internet Protocol, or VOIP, services

* Use of your conference number at any time and for an unlimited time

* Participant capacity ranging from 100 to more

* MP3 recording for archiving, sharing, and playback

* Support of any calling device, such as a cellular phone, broadband phone, traditional phone, desktop softphone, and many others

* Unlimited international conference calls using traditional calling tools, or VoIP

* Computers are unnecessary for audio conferencing

Free conference calling services are not perfect for every company. Neither do they come completely for free. They have their uses, however, and when utilized well, they can prove to be the best deal of the year.

A Conference call is defined as a phone call that usually connects three or more people simultaneously. This service is often utilized by companies to communicate with one or more of their key personnel at the same time, usually to get input from all involved or to disseminate information needed by more than one person at the same instance. Conference calls have proven to be an effective and cost-effective mode of keeping in touch with multiple people around the world. With costs in travel being cut to a minimum and conferencing costs at a fraction of the amounts needed to fly to meetings and what-not, Call Conferencing has become the norm these days in terms of company cost efficiency.

Conference Calling was originally facilitated via a telephone. The most recent version of this is the internet based conference call that is done via internet telephony. These two means of conference calling can be facilitated by Conference Call Service companies. Usually, in call conferencing, some companies have to employ their own conference call service equipment, which can be pretty expensive. Employing a Conference Call Service Provider, whether it be telephone or internet based, also further reduces cost incurred by the company that uses this technology.

Conference Call Service companies provide the hardware and the services for the company who wishes to contract their help. In the older style conference call using the telephone as the medium of communication, there are two ways to get the conference call service, namely the reservationless and the operator-assisted services. The Operator-assisted service is, as the name denotes, facilitated through an operator. This is used mainly for interconnecting quite a number of participants to a conference call and is usually arranged or “reserved” a day ahead of the scheduled conference or meeting. The reservationless conference call service is oftentimes less expensive and subsequently, more popular than the operator assisted mode of tele-conferencing. This conference call service is reservationless due to a toll-free number that is assigned to your company which you can dial at anytime, without making any “reservations” or advance notice.

Telephone based conference call service providers also classify their services into two sub-services, the broadcasted conference and the question-and-answer conference. The broadcasted conference call is just as it is named, a broadcasted call that reaches multiple receivers who only get to listen to the caller talking and no interaction is possible or questions cannot be thrown at the speaker since the exchange is one way. The question and answer conference on the other hand is just that. A question and answer situation where the participants can lobby questions and answers at each other to come up with resolutions to certain topics that are being discussed. Traffic for this kind of conference call is controlled via a button that a participant presses to alert the others that a question or an answer is coming up.

The newer trend in Conference Call Services is the VoIP based services or Voice-over Internet Protocol based Conference Call Services. Also known by the term Web conferencing, VoIP based services makes use of an internet service provider and has quite a few options in the bag as compared to the original call conferencing choices afforded by the telephone based variety. This type of call conferencing is often useful when visual aids and projection charts need to be shared with the people on the other side of the line.

Some of the most common Web conferencing activities include slide presentations and application sharing. A person on the other side of the globe could present facts and figures with the help of this computer based program that is accessed via another program that enables the other parties to see the explanation as well as hear it over headphones or speakers. Application sharing can also be used by multiple parties, with the participants having the option to manipulate an open application, like a spreadsheet, on the presenter’s unit utilizing software that allows this.

Call conferencing via VoIP is also useful for video-conferencing or a call conference enhanced with the use of web-cams. This can be useful for construction firms that are global. They can view the progress of a site that is far from headquarters by sending one person with a laptop and a web-cam to the site and broadcasting this to the people involved in the project along with voice commentaries and observations.

Conference Call Service Providers are multiplying in number, each one offering similar services to one another yet one or more presenting either an expansion or enhanced version of one or more services offered by the other. At times, the prices of these services becomes the point of contention for these rivals in business, where one company provides the same service at a lower price than its competitor.

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.

Conference calling services are offered by many telecommunication companies and are also available online, but the cost of such services may vary and are usually high. Affordable conference calling services are hard to find, but when considering the features provided and the performance of the services, the costs are nominal and reasonable. Low cost conference calling companies offer full service, reservation-less and flat rate conference calling plans that are perfect for any business. Attractive features like editing participants’ information in the attendee roster and including new participants beyond the said limit help calling company’s gain more rapport with the conference organizing company and committee.

Conference calling can be conducted without making a reservation or using an operator and Through automation, participants are informed about the call, the time to call in, along with the phone number and participant entry codes that are given in the individual’s confirmation card. All of the participants are asked to dial the specified telephone number, enter the entry code, and they are automatically entered into the conference call. The call begins when the chairperson, who is hosting the conference, enters the conference call. Additional labor expenses are not involved, thereby saving both time and money. Conference calling companies understand that affordable messaging conference calling is essential for any growing business and strive to make the conference call run as smooth as possible.

Most vendors offer conference calls at low costs that do not require reservations. Their conference calling system is a fully automated solution. A permanent, toll-free call-in number and entry code is given to the participants, and they have to pay only for the minutes used. Some vendors even waive the setup fees and do not require minimum usage cost. Inexpensive and affordable conference calling systems gives the advantage of buying minutes in bulk with volume discounts. These calling services may be affordable, but they do not necessarily lack options and always-on conferencing, call management over the Internet and instant activation for free.

Conference calls have been an alternative way of gathering people together in a business seminars or meetings. It can save everyone the hassle of traveling from one place to another just to attend a business gathering. Not only that, it can also relatively lower down company expenses because all you really need is a telephone system and you are good to go. Technology has really gone a long way and has helped the business sector in making cost-effective solutions that fits their needs.

You may think that setting up a call conference may be costly. Actually it need not be. There are a number of conference call service providers in the market that are offering affordable call conferencing packages which are available for everyone.

How come some cheap conference call providers can reduce their rates that low?

Firstly, offering cheap rates is their marketing strategy to get more people to commission their service. Second, cheap conference calls are often service providers themselves and have their very own network that they use during conference calls. This way, there are actually no or at least very minimal overhead cost. Without these additional costs, they can easily lower down their rates.

How do cheap conference calls work?

Providers usually would give their costumer a unique toll free number. The participants of the conference call will then dial-in the given number. The host would simply call the toll number and can easily conduct the conference right there and then.

Advantages of cheap conference calls

Reservation-less conferencing

Cheap conference call does not need reservations for a person to join the conference. A client can call a conference anytime he needs one without making prior reservations.

Call management system

Cheap conference calls also provide their own call management system. Just be sure to check with your provider other services and additional features that come with the package you paid for. Call management system would ensure that you have a smooth-flowing conference at all times.

Operator assisted

Cheap conference calls also provide live operators upon request but you would usually be required to pay additional cost for this. Since cheap conference calls are committed to provide the most cost-effective solution possible for their costumers they usually use automated system instead of live operators to cut down the cost of the service you have to pay for.

Easy setup

You might think that you need extra tools to set up conferencing, but this is actually not the case. There are no additional equipments that you need to have to make a conference call. All you need to have is a simple telephone system that you would use during the conference.

Get in touch with hundreds of people

The primary use of a conference call is to get two or more people together. But with a cheap call conference, it gets even better. You can converse and connect to one person or to one hundred people all at the same time.

Who would benefit from cheap call conferences?

Call conferencing is not exclusive for business use. It could also be used for medical consultations and for small organization’s staff meetings.

Start-up companies would greatly benefit from cheap call conferencing. They would give your company the professionalism it needs without you shelling out a big fortune. Cheap call conferencing would perfectly fit your budget.

Small organizations and charity institutions can also use cheap conference calls. This way, they can get in touch with their staff wherever they are in the world. You do not need to pay for high cellphone bills anymore or to travel far just to talk to your staff. Cheap conference makes it easier for you.

Cheap conference calls, are they any good? In conclusion, they are! They offer cost-effective solutions to suits your needs without paying for high fees. They are very economical compared to traveling to different places just to meet with certain people whether it is for your business or for your organization.

Apart from being affordable, cheap conference calls are not short when in comes to technical advantage. They can offer the same service most high-priced providers offer. What you really have to do is to evaluate your provider’s services and ask them about what they can offer you. It would be a good idea to compare providers and choose what you think is best suited for your cause.

Communication is very vital in a thriving company. With cheap conference calls, you can create seamless communication with your people and still save up a little of your budget.

Conference calling is one of the best business solutions to conduct a meeting over the telephone, in which more than three persons can participate to share some points. Or in other words, it is a means of communicating with more than one person simultaneously, without actually being physically present at a designated place. Conference calling offers mainly three modes for communication, i.e., audio, video, and web based conference calls. It is obvious that these conference calls eliminate a major cost for the companies, and therefore, are very much advantageous for the organizations. Some of the advantages offered by these conference calls are:

Cost Effective Process: Though the fee for availing the service varies with service providers, yet conference call is a much economical option to conduct a virtual meeting and to convey the message to the people concerned. Because in conducting a meeting with the conventional processes, a lot of travel expenses and hotel accommodation expenses are involved; whereas in case of conference calling, nothing of that sort is required.

Time saving process: It is as easy as thinking of talking to some persons and you can make a conference call immediately. Usually it is very good option for conferences that are called on very short notices. It also does not involve any loss of work and the message can be conveyed at a faster pace.

Helps in relation building: It is sometimes difficult for a business to conduct meetings for every segment of employees at regular intervals, which may lead to some misconceptions among employees and they may feel neglected. However, conference calling can eliminate such situations and helps in building good employer-employee relationship.

Simple and easily accessible: The service provider links the persons to be involved in a conference call and the persons do not need to have any special equipment for the same, as it simply linked with the ordinary phone or mobile phone. The person conducting a conference call is facilitated with a speaker, so that all persons involved must be heard at that point. The other persons can talk with the main conductor from their places.

Facilitate Data transfer: Audio conference calling is limited only to transfer instructions or views verbally; but via video conferencing, it is possible to transfer presentations or data to all the persons. With this service there will be no mistakes in sending and receiving instructions, as if there is any, one can clear it immediately and correct it.

Distance is not a problem: With the help of conference calling, the limitations of distance can be eliminated, as it can be used for talking to persons anywhere around the globe. That is why it is most commonly used by small as well as big business houses for communication purposes.