If you've been using conference calling as a way of communicating with your professional group or social group it's important that you don't screw it up while your hosting the call. Messing up your conference call can be at the least embarrassing and in more extreme circumstances lead to loss of business or friends. After reviewing the following tips you'll have a good idea on how not to mess things up.

Using some simple do's and dont's will allow you to pull of your next conference call with out to much of a hassle and avoid some common annoyances and maintain professionalism.

1. First and foremost it probably best even before you start the call that you have at least an informal agenda layed out. There is nothing worse than getting on a call and the moderator doesn't have any clue as to what direction the call should take.

2. Try to take notes during the conversation, be sure to do it with pen and paper though. The sound of someone typing as another is talking can be distracting.

3. If at all possible try not to engage in a call while driving in the car. Not only is that somewhat dangerous but your full attention can't be on the call or the conversation.

4. Make sure to put yourself in a quiet environment. People talking in the background or cleaning going on can be a problem for those that are trying to pay attention to the person speaking at the time.

5. Be knowledgeable of your equipment. If you've got some high tech telephony make sure that you know how to use it. Attempting to figure things out when your call starts is going to make people uncomfortable and less tentative.

There are several key factors to consider when hosting a conference call. Make sure to follow these simple tips to make your next conference call a smooth process and success.