How to Make a Skype Conference Call: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking for a way to connect with multiple people at once, a Skype conference call is an excellent option. With just a few clicks, you can host a virtual meeting with participants from all over the world. However, if you’re new to Skype, the process of setting up a conference call can be a bit overwhelming. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a Skype conference call, from preparation to troubleshooting.

Preparing for the Skype Conference Call

Before you can initiate a Skype conference call, you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary tools and software installed. Here are the steps to follow:

Download and Install Skype

To use Skype, you’ll need to download and install the software on your computer or mobile device. You can find the latest version of Skype on the official website.

Create a Skype Account

If you don’t already have a Skype account, you’ll need to create one. The sign-up process is straightforward, and you’ll be asked to provide your name, email address, and a password.

Add Contacts to Your Skype Account

To make a conference call, you’ll need to have the contacts of the people you want to connect with. You can add contacts to your Skype account by searching for their name or Skype ID.

Set Up Audio and Video Devices

Before you start a conference call, you’ll need to make sure your audio and video devices are set up correctly. Test your microphone, speakers, and camera to ensure they’re working correctly. You can do this by going to the Skype settings and selecting the “Audio & Video” tab.

By following these steps, you’ll be ready to start your Skype conference call. In the next section, we’ll show you how to initiate the call and invite participants.

Starting a Skype Conference Call

Once you’ve prepared everything, it’s time to start the conference call. Here are the steps to follow:

Initiating the Call

To initiate a conference call, open Skype and click on the “New Chat” button. Then, select “New Group Chat” and enter the names of the people you want to invite to the call.

Inviting Participants to the Call

After you’ve created the group, click on the “Call” button to start the call. You can invite participants by clicking on the “Add People” button and selecting the contacts you want to include in the call.

Setting Up Call Settings

Before you start the call, you can adjust the call settings to suit your needs. For example, you can turn on call recording, change the video layout, or enable subtitles. To access the settings, click on the three dots icon and select “Call settings.”

By following these steps, you’ll be able to start a Skype conference call and invite participants. In the next section, we’ll show you how to manage the call.

Starting a Skype Conference Call

Once you’ve prepared everything, it’s time to start the conference call. Here are the steps to follow:

Initiating the Call

To initiate a conference call, open Skype and click on the “New Chat” button. Then, select “New Group Chat” and enter the names of the people you want to invite to the call.

Inviting Participants to the Call

After you’ve created the group, click on the “Call” button to start the call. You can invite participants by clicking on the “Add People” button and selecting the contacts you want to include in the call.

Setting Up Call Settings

Before you start the call, you can adjust the call settings to suit your needs. For example, you can turn on call recording, change the video layout, or enable subtitles. To access the settings, click on the three dots icon and select “Call settings.”

By following these steps, you’ll be able to start a Skype conference call and invite participants.

Managing a Skype Conference Call

During a conference call, you may need to manage the call to ensure everyone can participate effectively. Here are some of the tasks you can perform:

Muting and Unmuting Participants

If there’s background noise or someone is causing a disturbance, you can mute their audio by clicking on the microphone icon next to their name. You can also unmute them by clicking on the same icon.

Sharing Screens and Files

If you need to share information with the participants, you can use the screen sharing or file sharing features. To share your screen, click on the “Share Screen” button, and select the screen you want to share. To share a file, click on the “Attachments” button and select the file you want to share.

Recording the Call

If you want to keep a record of the call, you can record it using the built-in recording feature. To start recording, click on the “More Options” button and select “Start Recording.” When the call is finished, click on the same button and select “Stop Recording.”

By managing the call effectively, you can ensure that everyone can participate and that the call runs smoothly. In the next section, we’ll show you how to troubleshoot common problems during a Skype conference call.

Troubleshooting Common Problems During a Skype Conference Call

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, technical problems can arise during a Skype conference call. Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to fix them:

Poor Audio or Video Quality

If you’re experiencing poor audio or video quality during a Skype conference call, try the following:

• Check your internet connection: A weak connection can affect the quality of the call. Try moving closer to your router or switching to a wired connection.
• Close other programs: Other programs running on your device can consume bandwidth and affect the quality of the call. Close all unnecessary programs before starting the call.
• Adjust your settings: If the quality is still poor, try adjusting your audio and video settings in the Skype settings.

Connectivity Issues

If you’re having trouble connecting to the call, try the following:

• Restart Skype: Close and reopen Skype to see if it resolves the issue.
• Check your internet connection: A weak or unstable internet connection can affect your ability to connect. Try resetting your router or modem.
• Check your Skype version: Make sure you’re using the latest version of Skype. If not, update it and try again.

Resolving Technical Glitches

If you encounter any other technical glitches, try the following:

• Restart your device: A simple restart can often fix technical problems.
• Rejoin the call: Leave the call and rejoin it to see if the issue is resolved.
• Contact Skype support: If none of the above solutions work, contact Skype support for further assistance.

By troubleshooting these issues, you’ll be able to ensure smooth and uninterrupted Skype conference calls.

Ending a Skype Conference Call

Once you’ve finished your conference call, it’s essential to wrap it up properly. Here are the steps to follow:

Wrapping Up the Call

Thank the participants for joining the call and summarise the key points discussed. If there are any action items, make sure to assign them to the relevant participants.

Thanking Participants

Show your appreciation by thanking all the participants for attending the call. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in building professional relationships.

Closing the Call

To end the call, click on the red “End Call” button. This will disconnect all participants from the call.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to wrap up your Skype conference call in a professional and efficient manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skype conference calls are an excellent way to connect with multiple people at once, whether for business or personal purposes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to prepare for, start, manage, troubleshoot, and end a Skype conference call with ease. Don’t forget to thank your participants and wrap up the call properly to ensure a positive and productive experience. At Wiki Put, we’re committed to providing you with informative and engaging content on a wide range of topics, including computing, the internet, blogs, gaming, gadgets, social media, broadband, and much more.