As the moderator/host, there are several steps you can take to lead a successful audio conference...

Be more effective in what you say by:

• Varying the tone of your voice
• Speaking clearly and avoiding background noise
  

"Do Not Disturb"
Make sure you lead the audio conference from an office or meeting room where you won't be disturbed.

If you are the leader:

• Stick to the agenda - see how to create an effective agenda
• Control interruptions
• Anticipate problems and be prepared with solutions
• Stay enthusiastic

Share Your Enthusiasm!
Your voice accounts for 78% of your effectiveness on the telephone. Be sure to project your enthusiasm and interest from the moment you begin the audio conference.

Introduce Yourself
Begin the teleconference by introducing yourself and your location, stating the objective of the teleconference, and giving instructions for audience involvement.

Set the Rules
Remind every one of the ground rules during an audio conference.:

• State one's name before speaking
• Keep background noise to a minimum; use the mute button when not speaking
• Keep comments concise and focused on the topic
• Keep It Interesting

To hold everyone's interest, make frequent changes in speakers by calling on specific participants for their input or questions.

Keep It Simple
Present the information clearly in an easy-to-understand manner.

• Review the agenda - see how to create an effective agenda
• Summarize decisions and action items
• Don't Be Afraid to Pause

One of the most common complaints about teleconferencing is the fast pace of the presentation. Using pauses can lead to a more effective presentation.

Be Direct
"Please look at the next page and we'll discuss the diagram..." is more direct and effective than, "The next diagram we'll discuss is found on the following page..." Using active, direct language will stimulate and hold your audience's interest.

Q and A
In general, effective presentations allow about one-third of the time for interaction with the audience. Let the participants know if and when you want interaction. You can request the operator to conduct a Q&A session for you.

Name Names
Call on people by name and location ("Chris in Chicago, what do you think...?") when asking questions or soliciting their reactions. With large audiences, call on groups of people by their site ("Let's hear from New York on this one...") or company role ("How does the marketing department feel about that...?").

Be Democratic
Take note of the people and sites that participate, and those from whom you haven't heard. Use this information to lead a balanced discussion.

Stay on Schedule
Be respectful of everyone's time and try to end on schedule. Remember that not all discussions have to take place during the audio conference. You can agree to call someone after the conference for a more in-depth conversation.

Reach Closure
When preparing to close, do the following:

• Ask for summary statements
• Recap action items
• Thank everyone for their participation
• Use a formal sign-off to end the conference
• Review Your audio conference meeting
• Obtain a recording of the program and review it to make improvements in future audio conferences.

After the Meeting:
Maximize productivity by forwarding to all audio conference participants:

• minutes of the meeting
• the Replay dial-in number and PIN
• and any other pertinent material