Zoom Meetings
When conducting a meeting in Zoom, the host will send out an invitation to all expected members. This invitation will include a Meeting ID, a link to the meeting, and a phone number. There are multiple options when choosing how to connect to a zoom meeting. The easiest are listed below:
- Zoom Desktop Client: If you have not already downloaded Zoom to your computer, the invitation link will take you to the Zoom website and prompt you to do so. Once your computer has the appropriate software, the link will take you straight to the meeting. You can also open the software directly and manually input the meeting ID when prompted.
- Zoom Mobile Client: Similarly, following the invitation link on your mobile phone will prompt you to download the mobile app, if you have not already done so. Once downloaded, the application will take you straight to your meeting. You can also open the software directly and manually input the meeting ID
- Calling In (Audio Conference Only): If you do not have the Zoom software, don’t plan on downloading it, and don’t plan on using Zoom with frequency, then you can call in to a meeting. To do this, you can call the number listed on the invite and dial in the Meeting ID when prompted. Once connected to the meeting, you will join as an audio-only contributor. In turn, you will receive only the audio content of the meeting.
Zoom software can be downloaded at any time at http://zoom.com/download.
Video Conference Tips & Tricks
- Turn off your microphone when you aren’t speaking. When your microphone is on, the rest of the call can hear every little noise on your end. Turning off your microphone shows respect to those who are speaking and allows everybody to hear clearly.
- Learn the software. If it’s your first time using a particular software, or you don’t feel comfortable yet, login to your meeting early and make sure you know what you’re doing. Familiarize yourself with any functions you might use, such as the mute button and chat features. If you think you will have to engage in some more complicated actions, such as screen sharing, make sure you know how ahead of time.
- Check your lighting. Conversation is smoothest when you can see everybody’s face. Good lighting will ensure this and will keep you from sending grainy, low-quality video. Natural light is best, but any well-lit room should work.
- Limit distractions. A busy background can make it hard for others to concentrate. Some distractions are unavoidable but reducing the background noise and keeping the focus on those speaking can help keep the conversation on track.
- Be courteous to other participants. Be punctual. Pay attention when others are speaking. Try not to interrupt or speak over somebody who is talking. Ask for questions and clarifications. Put any notifications on silent.