Setting up an international conference call should be met with careful review as there are many factors that will influence the success of your call. Calling across international time zones and borders can be tricky and we suggest you are prepared well in advance. Consider some of the following international conference calling suggestions below to maximize a smooth productive call that will obtain the results you hope for.

International Conferencing - Know the Time Zone Difference and Be On Time

Tardiness is perceived differently in other countries and should not be done. In the United States being ten minutes late is often seen as being pretty much on time; however this is not true for other countries. Be respectful of all cultures and simply ensure that you are not only on time but on international conference calls at least a few minutes in advance. If for some reason you are late do not make excuses, and ensure that this will not happen again.

Know the Dialling Procedure for International Conferencing Well in Advance

Many people who have not dialled over sees are surprised to learn that you do not dial just one and then the international conferencing number. Oversees calling requires dialling 011 in most cases and you must also know the country code and city code (if applicable). In countries such as the United Kingdom there is often a 0 in front of the city code which should not be dialled. Do a test call well in advance to ensure you have the proper dialling instructions.

Speak Clearly and Slowly on International Conference Calls

Being a fast paced culture, Americans tend to speak quickly and use various expressions that are not clear to other cultures. Be sure to use complete words, for example yes, versus ya' and speak slowly and clearly when international conference calling. Many cultures do not respect interrupting so be sure to allow participants to complete before you speak. To ensure you are being understood with potential language barriers when using international conferencing, ask if they are following what you are saying.

Book a Translation Service if in Doubt

Many people believe they know how to speak a second language well. However technical business words and terminology may create a barrier so to be safe and utilize the services of a translator if there are any doubts whatsoever.

Be Professional and Avoid Humour that May Offend

Many cultures do not have the same sense of humour as Americans or Canadians, so be professional and avoid communication that may be misconstrued when making international conference calls.

Email or Fax an Agenda

To ensure the success of your international conference calls send out a document that will provide participants with an idea of what to expect. An agenda will give them time to prepare and ensure participation and confidence on the conference call.

Utilize Appropriate Etiquette on International Calls

Know in advance the cultural formalities of your colleagues and create a relationship that will promote your goal. The rules for business etiquette change from country to country and taking the time to research these differences will gain their respect and you make a great impression. Knowing if your should use first or last names and addressing colleagues formally or informally will support a natural call when using international conferencing.

Provide a Replay International Conference Calls for Those Who Cannot Attend

Many times trying to arrange a conference call according to everyone's schedules is pretty much impossible. Having an alternative solution to impart important information on your international call will allow others to listen at their convenience. State whethere there will be any form of follow up with those who were unable to attend the conference call.

We hope our following international conferencing tips have provided you with valuable information. To learn more about conference call tips please visit our featured resources. Thank you for visiting us.