What they don't tell you about conference calls

What they don't tell you about conference calls

by Markus Wahlgren

The multitude of users of conference calling services makes it
apparent that it is one of the favored means of communication in
the business world to date. Companies consider it more
cost-efficient, less taxing on the company's time and personnel,
and more effective in fostering business relations in the
international scene.

Like all good things, however, conference calling has several
limitations. While the numerous positive aspects of conference
calling are highly publicized, the limitations are hardly
visible.

The most obvious limitation of conference calling is the speed
with which it is developed in some countries and the delay in
others. Conference calling now largely involves video and data
as well as audio conferencing and makes use of highly advanced
equipment to deliver these new and improved services to
subscribers. The problem with this lies in the availability of
these equipments for the world's majority. Attendance and
participation in conferences may now be limited by the fact that
potential delegates in areas where the necessary equipment and
technological advancement has not yet arrived may not be able to
participate at all.

Another limitation is the lack of any set standard for
conference calling protocols. Certain measures for order and
smooth progress have been set for face-to-face conferences and
meetings. For conference calls, no such measures exist. The
normal etiquette and standard of behavior is necessary
even in these types of conferences to make sure that it would
not totally remove the aspect of interpersonal relations in
business dealings.

Last, but definitely no less important, is the instances of low
security and lack of proper billing standard provided to the
clients availing of conference calling services. These
conferences are recorded, and the clients should have control
over the contents of their conferences. Likewise, they should be
properly informed of the breakdown of the costs they have to pay
for these services.

From this it is apparent that there is a negative side to
conference calling. It is up to a potential user, therefore, to
weigh the pros and cons of using conference calls before
availing of a particular service.

***************************************************************
About the author:
Markus Wahlgren runs the popular site,
http://www.SaveOnConferenceCalling.com where conference
calling services are reviewed and unbiased articles published
to make the decision about conference calling easier.
***************************************************************

You may use this article provided you leave the article unchanged, acknowledge the author and include the resource box with live links.
Ron Passfield

Ron Passfield, PhD, affiliate marketing coach, is developing his affiliate business through the step-by-step coaching provided by the Affiliate Classroom:
http://www.affiliate-marketing-coach.blogspot.com/

Teleclasses: Your New Innovative Way to Learn

Teleclasses: Your New Innovative Way to Learn

by Kim Oliver

What the heck is a teleclass anyway? Teleclasses, also called
teleconferences, are an innovative method for bringing
information to you without you needing to leave your home or
office.

Most teleclasses are promoted by people who do business online.
You will find them advertised on websites, in online advertising
or perhaps in an email you receive. After speaking with several
focus groups, I now understand that many people are unaware of
exactly what a teleclass is and are concerned that there is some
type of catch or hidden cost.

First of all, teleclasses are simply conference calls, ranging
in size from three to thousands of participants. When you sign
up for a teleclass, you typically receive an email that will
give you the details for calling in. You simply dial the phone
number provided at the agreed upon time for the class, enter the
access code provided and you are instantly connected to the
other participants who registered for the call and the teleclass
leader.

You only need a telephone to participate in the calls. If you
don't have a computer to receive the confirmation email, most
teleclass leaders will provide an alternative to email for you
to get the necessary information, such as a telephone call.

Many people are afraid that there are hidden costs with
teleclasses. Many teleclasses are free or list for a nominal
cost, such as $19-$49. The only additional cost to you would be
whatever your phone company charges for long distance fees. So,
if your long distance cost is $.05/minute, then a 60 minute
teleclass would cost you only $3.00! Many people will opt to use
their cell phone to avail themselves of their free minutes so
the call costs nothing!

Teleclasses gained popularity after 9/11, when many people began
avoiding larger gatherings, such as seminars or workshops.
Teleclasses are the perfect way to gain information without
having to travel to a remote location where there are large
groups of people. Also, during today's information age when
people need information quickly, teleclasses make the perfect
choice.

Most teleclasses are 60-90 minutes in length and are geared
toward giving information on a variety of topics. Each teleclass
is generally devoted to a specific topic. An expert will
disseminate information on the call and participants are
generally given the opportunity to ask questions and to interact
with the presenter and the other participants either throughout
or at the end of the call.

Key points are highlighted but there is not the depth of
information most people get from attending an in-person event.
Also, there is generally not the same atmosphere or personal
touch people get from attending a live, in-person seminar but
the advantages are many.

For example, you don't have to speak if you don't want to. No
one will even know you are on the call. You can maintain your
anonymity. You can hang up if the call doesn't interest you. You
can multitask in the comfort of your own home or office. As long
as your phone is muted, no one will know what you are doing.

You don't have to be concerned about what to wear. You can
attend a teleclass in your bath robe if you want. (This may not
be so easy if you are already at the office!) Also, driving
directions are never a problem. Teleclasses don't tie up any
more of your time than the actual call is scheduled for, leaving
you free to continue with your active, busy life.

Teleclasses are a new, convenient alternative for people looking
to gain information without investing a lot of time. Many times
a teleclass is offered by people who also provide in-person
workshops. The teleclass is a great way to "test drive" the
speaker to determine whether or not you want to invest your time
in a full-day seminar.

If you are interested in registering for any of these classes,
just visit www.coachingforexcellence.biz and click on the
"Classes" link on the left-hand navigation bar or to go directly
to the teleclass page, just click on the following link or copy
and paste it into your browser:
http://www.coachingforexcellence.biz/Teleclasses.shtml.

*******************************************************************
About the author:
Kim Olver has an undergraduate degree in psychology, a graduate
degree in counseling, is a National Certified Counselor and is a
licensed professional counselor. She offers free chats,
assessments, a blog and an eZine, as well as workshops,
teleclasses, e-courses, counseling and coaching. Visit her
website at www.CoachingforExcellence.biz or contact her at (708)
957-6047.
*******************************************************************

You may use this article provided you leave the article unchanged, acknowledge the author and include the resource box with live links.
Ron Passfield

Ron Passfield, PhD, affiliate marketing coach, is developing his affiliate business through the step-by-step coaching provided by the Affiliate Classroom:
http://www.affiliate-marketing-coach.blogspot.com/