Before…

• Use four simple questions to determine whether or not the phone is your best option.
• Develop an agenda that ensures you’ll get decisions made.
• Establish a “no-excuses” policy for teleconference preparation.
• Get the input you need from people before, during, and after the teleconference.
• Know when to meet over the phone – and for how long.
• Rework regularly scheduled meetings as teleconferences – and get more done in less time.

During…

• Start things on time – and keep them on track.
• Listen for clues that participants are not paying attention.
• Facilitate idea generation – and know when it’s time to hone in on a decision.
• Know when to take discussions “off line” to avoid wasting others’ time.
• Get the right people on the line by using two no-fail techniques.
• Stop trouble-makers from using the teleconference as a soapbox for personal agendas.
• Encourage creative, solution-oriented discussions that get the team’s buy-in.
• Develop teleconference guidelines that ensure that everyone’s time is well-spent.
• Keep track of action items – and ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities.

After…

• Learn how to take notes that serve a purpose after the meeting.
• Follow-up with minutes that take just moments.
• Avoid the fallout after controversial meetings by utilizing in-house communication systems – including the grapevine.
• Monitor action items and results.