3 Tips for Better Speakerphone Etiquette

Speaking to anyone on a speakerphone can seem like a run of the mill thing for you, but a few bits of etiquette can go a long way in ensuring the call is not only productive, but respects the privacy and wishes of the person on the other end of the line.

3 tips for better speakerphone etiquette

 

Always Ask First

When calling someone, or receiving a call that you will be placing on speakerphone, always take a minute to ask the other person if they are comfortable being placed on speakerphone. This will give them a heads up that other people will be listening in, and will be a cue for them to keep sensitive information quiet until they are on a one-on-one call.

If the person on the other end of the line declines being placed on speakerphone, respect their wishes. Don’t go ahead and place them on speakerphone as this can be a breach of trust which can reflect poorly upon your workplace or the company you are representing.

If you are the caller and feel like you were placed on speakerphone without being asked, there is nothing wrong with questioning the recipient of the call. Simply saying you are curious if you are on speakerphone so you can introduce yourself to the rest of the room is a great way to casually broach the subject without being too direct.

Use Proper Introductions

Whether you are calling or being called, always consider using proper introductions of everyone in the room during a speakerphone call. For example, if you are touching base with one of your team members that may be working remotely, but have multiple other employees in the office with you, be sure introductions are made so everyone can be sure they are able to hear and be heard clearly.

Speakerphones can sometimes have a unique or poor audio sound, so by doing initial introductions you can quickly nip any issues in the bud before the important subjects of the meeting are reached.

Stay Focused on the Speaker

One of the biggest downsides to a speakerphone call between multiple people is that the microphone can pick up a whole host of background noise from you and others in the room. This can be disruptive to the person on the other end of the line, and may end up causing you to miss important information.

When using your speakerphone, be aware of the background noise you make. Limit the rustling of papers, don’t scoot chairs, try not to allow or create a lot of whispering or other vocalizations which may drown out the important key speakers at the time.

Additionally, keeping a quiet room can help you stay focused on the speaker instead of them hearing you rustling papers and potentially being focused on other tasks at your desk. If you must do other work while also attending a speakerphone call, be sure the noise from these other activities are kept to a minimum and are discreet.

By Published On: September 14, 2022Categories: Answering ServicesComments Off on 3 Tips for Better Speakerphone Etiquette

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