Teleclass & Web conference Etiquette

Whether you are new to the world of teleclasses or an experienced user, here are some rules of etiquette that will make the class more enjoyable for everyone.

1. Verify the correct starting time of the class for your time zone. Class times are indicated in Pacific Time, which is where we are located. The following sites will assist you in finding the corresponding time for your zone.

http://www.time.gov http://www.timezoneconverter.com


2. Call from a land telephone. This means NO cell phones, internet phones, speaker phones or mobile, battery-operated phones. These phones can cause lots of noise on the line, causing the sound quality to be less than ideal.
   
   
3. Disable the "Call Waiting" feature on your phone. To do this on most phones, dial *70. The "Call Waiting" feature is reinstated once you hang up.
   
   
4. Turn off the ringer to the second line when using a multi-line phone.
   
   
5. Call in 5 minutes before the class starts. Be sure to enter the # after the Access Code when you call in. Do not call before that since no one is "there" except during the scheduled class time. Our teleclass line accommodates 96 callers so be on time to make sure you get on the call.
   
   
6. When you call in, there will be a beep to notify us that someone has entered the call. When there's a pause, feel free to say, "Hi, this is Sara from Lincoln" or whatever.
   
   
7. If you ask a question, please say your name before you state your question ... so we know whom we're speaking with. Be respectful of the leader and other callers...no interrupting or cross-talking. Mind your manners!
   
   
8. The teleclass line has some feature keys. Press the corresponding key on your phone for:
   Press 3 - Exit the conference
   Press 4 - Instructions (plays menu of touch tone commands)
   Press 6 - Mute and un-mute yourself from the call
   
   
9. Please be aware, when your line is un-muted, everything you are doing can be heard by all. We can hear the children, the dogs, the argument with your partner, that you are having dinner, and even your use of the facilities. Unless you are speaking, it is highly recommended (not to mention being respectful of your phone-mates) that you mute your line.
   
   
10. Some people breathe "heavier" than others... and don't realize it. So, we ask that you hold the mouthpiece or telephone headset microphone a bit away from your mouth and nose, unless you are speaking. This may sound silly, but when you're on a call with a heavy breather, you'll understand why.
    
    
11. If you must temporarily leave the call, please simply put your receiver down ... and pick it up again when you come back. Don't hang up and phone back. Don't put the teleclass line on "hold." Please do not try to take other incoming calls while the class is in session.
    
    
12. Each teleclass and web conference presentation will be recorded. By participating in the class (announcing yourself, asking questions, etc.) you are consenting to the recording. The recordings will be available on our website for up to one week if you missed being on the call.
    
    
13. In the Web conference room, if you are having trouble while a class is talking place, we ask that you do not announce your technical issue but type a message an instant message to the instructor or moderator who will work with you to solve your technical issues. Remember the room is being recorded as well.