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How to make a group video call in Microsoft Teams

How to make a group video call in Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams stands out as a powerful platform for hosting group calls and team meetings.

Whether you need a quick audio call, a detailed video call, or a full-scale team meeting with screen sharing and file collaboration, Microsoft Teams makes it seamless to connect with a group of people.

With features like call controls, the ability to invite specific people, and options for simultaneous rings on your mobile device or desktop, Teams ensures high call quality and flexibility.

From group chats to new meetings, you can start a group video call with just a few clicks.

Plus, advanced features such as using a dial pad for a dial-in number, managing incoming calls, and leveraging a call queue make Microsoft Teams a comprehensive solution for team collaboration.

This blog post will walk you through simple steps to make a group video call in Microsoft Teams while ensuring you follow best practices and adhere to company terms of use and code of conduct.

Whether you’re connecting with internal users, external users, or guest users, you’ll learn how to use Teams’ features effectively to foster productive virtual meetings.

You may also want to see How to add members to a team in Microsoft Teams.

Steps to making a group video call in Microsoft Teams

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make a group video call effectively while adhering to best practices and company guidelines.

 

1. Start a Group Call from a Group Chat
  1. Open Microsoft Teams and go to the group chat you want to use.

  2. At the top of Teams, click on the “Video call” icon (a camera symbol) to start an instant group video call.

  3. Alternatively, you can click the “Audio call” icon if you prefer a voice-only group call.

  4. Ensure your call quality settings are optimal by checking your microphone, camera, and call controls at the bottom of the screen.

 

2. Initiate a Group Call from the Teams App
  1. From the Teams app, select “New chat” or “New call” at the top right corner.

  2. Enter the number of the person or select multiple team members by typing their names or choosing from their profile pictures.

  3. Click the “Video call” or “Voice call” button to begin your call.

 

3. Start a Call During a Team Conversation
  1. Navigate to a team conversation or new conversation.

  2. Click the “New meeting” option to set up a scheduled team meeting or start an instant group call.

  3. Invite specific people or entire teams by entering their email addresses or selecting them from the list of active users.

 

Advanced Features and Call Controls
  • Screen Sharing: During the call, use the “Screen sharing” option in the call window to share content with the group.

  • Simultaneous Ring: For incoming calls, use the “Simultaneous ring” feature to ring your desktop and mobile device.

  • Dial Pad: Access the dial pad if you need to add someone using a dial-in number or audio conferencing phone number.

  • Call Queue: Manage incoming calls efficiently with the call queue feature, especially useful for handling high volumes during traditional conference calls.

 

Important Considerations
  • Follow your company’s terms of use and code of conduct to prevent inappropriate content such as child nudity, child abuse, or hateful content.

  • Be mindful of protected traits like gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, and disability status when interacting with group members.

  • Avoid sharing links to phishing sites or distributing unsolicited bulk mail.

  • Contact Microsoft support or technical support for assistance with advanced features or call-related issues.

You may also want to see How to add members to a team in Microsoft Teams.

Conclusion

Making a group video call in Microsoft Teams is a seamless way to enhance team collaboration and stay connected, whether you’re working with internal users, external users, or guest users.

By using the group chat, new meeting, or call group features, you can initiate a call with just a few clicks and leverage advanced features like screen sharing, call controls, and simultaneous ring for added flexibility.

Always ensure that your meetings adhere to your organization’s terms of use and code of conduct, maintaining a respectful environment that avoids inappropriate content such as hateful content, unsolicited bulk mail, or links to phishing sites.

With Microsoft Teams’ user-friendly interface and robust features, hosting group calls and virtual meetings becomes efficient, promoting productivity and teamwork in today’s remote work landscape.

By following these best practices, you can ensure your calls are smooth, secure, and productive.

You may also want to see How to add members to a team in Microsoft Teams.