Many companies, especially those with offices abroad, opt for holding teleconferences. They’re much cheaper and great time savers compared to actually holding actual meetings. If you decide to have one, here is how to set-up a teleconference:

The first thing you’ll need is a teleconferencing provider. Although there are online sites which provide free services, they can be limiting. AT&T or Clear Channel may require fees but they do provide extra service and they offer different packages of which you can avail.

Be sure that you know your requirements for each meeting – number of participants, customer service and tech support, web or video features.Schedule a time for your teleconference in advance – which means way advance as possible. Some providers ask for advance reservation.

Like any regular meeting, create an agenda. This will help you stay focused during the meeting, especially if you choose to have limited time. Email the participants in advance. Attach the agenda and the number access to call and any other information pertinent for the meeting.

Dial into the conference line at least 10 minutes before the indicated time. Not only will this keep you from getting late, but it allows enough time in case there would be technical difficulties to deal with.

Hold the meeting as usual and end the conference. Being the host, you ought to be the last one to leave the line.