Like a cake, the secret for a successful team conference call depends on the right mix of ingredients.
Whether the call is to be held by the company with its top leaders, or by a leader with her team, our recipe works for both.
1. Start on Time with a Roll Call
When you start with the collection of the names of participants, you will encourage your representatives to get on the call on time and not to be late!
2. Add Scripted Training
Every conference call should include a short 5-10 minute presentation on one topic in depth. Ideally, the training is scripted which means that the training material can be presented by anyone who has the script.
3. Allow for Training Q and A
After the script has been presented, allow 5 minutes for questions. To keep everyone on track, remind participants that questions at this time are limited to those relevant to the material that was trained.
4. Present Recognition
Every conference call should recognize several individuals for recent achievements which are activities that are measured by the company, either by the compensation plan or a contest or incentive program.
5. Spotlight on Success
Recognition becomes a learning vehicle for others when representatives with achievements are permitted to explain “how they did it.” Plus, it’s an honor for achievers to speak up to share their successes with peers.
6. Preview
Get everyone ready for the next call by announcing the training topic.
7. Final Q and A
At the end of the call, allow time for questions unrelated to the training topic. For those who don’t want to hear the questions of others, they can leave the call now.
Summary
For a one-hour conference call, here is how we suggest you apportion the time:
1. Roll Call – 5 Minutes
2. Scripted Training – 15 Minutes
3. Training Q and A – 10 Minutes
4. Recognition – 5 Minutes
5. Spotlight on Success – 10 Minutes
6. Preview – 5 Minutes
7. Final Q and A – 10 Minutes
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