How To Host A Conference Call

As conference host, it’s up to you to set the tone and moderate the proceedings. Here are a few tips to help you hold successful conference calls.

Be on time; in fact, be early. It’s bad form to show up late to your own call!
Test your line before your call to ensure that it’s working.
Although it’s not essential, using a headset can be a tremendous help. It lets you keep both hands free and keeps the volume of your voice fairly constant. Just be sure to use a quality headset with good reception and a good microphone.
Make sure you’ve given everyone the correct itinerary.
Don’t mumble, rush your words, or chew gum when speaking.
Leave some time before your call to test your phone (or headset’s) volume settings. This is especially important if you’re going to use a speakerphone, since speakerphones can produce muddle or distorted sound
Keep your callers involved. Encourage everyone to participate.
Leave time for questions and comments.
Set some early ground rules. Ask that your guests wait their turn to speak, and that they call from relatively quiet locations.
If you’ve got things going on around you (a crowded office, street noise, etc.) mute your line when you’re not speaking. It will allow the other parties to hear with more clarity.
Focus on the call. It’s up to you to keep everything running smoothly. Multitasking while hosting a call can cause you to miss important conversation.