1.2 Mastering Call Controls and Options in Microsoft Teams

managing controls on teams call

Effective communication is critical to successful remote work and collaboration, and Microsoft Teams offers a wide range of call controls and options to enhance your calling experience. This guide will provide a detailed guide on using call controls and options on desktop and mobile devices, such as mute, hold, and transfer. Additionally, we’ll share a list of helpful tips to make your calls more productive and enjoyable.

Steps on Desktop:

  1. Mute/Unmute: During a call, click the ‘Microphone’ icon in the call control bar to mute or unmute your microphone.
  2. Hold: To place a call on hold, click the ‘More Actions’ button (three dots) in the call control bar and select ‘Hold.’ To resume the call, click ‘Resume.’
  3. Transfer: To transfer a call, click the ‘More Actions’ button, select ‘Transfer,’ and search for the desired contact. You can choose between a ‘Consult then transfer’ (speak with the recipient before transferring) or a ‘Direct transfer’ (transfer the call immediately without speaking to the recipient).
  4. Adjust Audio/Video settings: Click the ‘More Actions’ button and select ‘Device settings.’ You can change your audio input/output devices from here, adjust speaker/microphone volume, and configure video settings.
  5. Screen Sharing: Click the ‘Share Screen’ icon in the call control bar to share your screen with the call participant(s). You can share your screen, a specific window, or a PowerPoint presentation.

Steps on Mobile:

  1. Mute/Unmute: During a call, tap the ‘Microphone’ icon in the call control bar to mute or unmute your microphone.
  2. Hold: The hold feature may vary depending on the device and app version on mobile devices. If available, tap the ‘More Actions’ button (three dots) in the call control bar and select ‘Hold.’ To resume the call, tap ‘Resume.’
  3. Transfer: Tap the ‘More Actions’ button, select ‘Transfer,’ and search for the desired contact. Choose between a ‘Consult then transfer’ or a ‘Direct transfer.’
  4. Adjust Audio/Video settings: Tap the ‘More Actions’ button and select ‘Device settings.’ You can change your audio input/output devices and configure video settings from here.
  5. Screen Sharing: Tap the ‘Share Screen’ icon in the call control bar to share your screen with the call participant(s). Note that the screen-sharing feature might be limited on some mobile devices.

List of Tips:

  1. Familiarize yourself with the call controls and options in Microsoft Teams to handle calls more efficiently.
  2. Use a high-quality microphone and webcam for a better audio and video experience.
  3. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection to avoid call disruptions.
  4. Be mindful of background noise and use the mute button when not speaking to minimize distractions.
  5. Make use of the screen-sharing feature to enhance collaboration during calls.
  6. Practice good call etiquette, such as waiting for your turn to speak and not interrupting others.
  7. Regularly update your Teams app to the latest version for optimal performance and new features.

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