How to Put Myself on Hold in Teams
In today’s fast-paced work environment, effective communication is crucial for team collaboration. However, there are times when you may need to put yourself on hold during a team meeting or video call. This could be due to various reasons, such as attending to an urgent matter, stepping out for a moment, or simply needing a brief break. In this article, we will discuss how to put yourself on hold in teams, ensuring that you maintain professionalism and minimize disruption to the ongoing conversation.
1. Use the Mute Button
The most straightforward way to put yourself on hold is by muting your microphone. This can be done by clicking the mute button on your video conferencing software or device. By muting your microphone, you prevent any background noise or extraneous sounds from interrupting the meeting. It also ensures that you do not inadvertently speak over the person who is currently speaking.
2. Use the Hold Function
Some video conferencing platforms offer a hold function that allows you to temporarily disconnect from the call. This can be particularly useful if you need to step out of the room or attend to an urgent matter. To use this function, look for an option labeled “hold” or “leave the call” in your video conferencing software. Once you’ve activated the hold function, you will be removed from the call, and your presence will no longer be required.
3. Notify the Team
Before putting yourself on hold, it’s essential to notify the team of your absence. This ensures that everyone is aware of your situation and can continue the discussion without any confusion. You can do this by simply stating, “I need to step out for a moment, but I’ll be back shortly,” or “I’m going to put myself on hold to attend to an urgent matter.” This way, the team can adjust their expectations and carry on with the meeting.
4. Return Promptly
When you’re ready to return to the call, ensure that you do so promptly. This demonstrates your commitment to the team and your willingness to contribute to the discussion. Before joining the call again, make sure to unmute your microphone and rejoin the conversation.
5. Follow Up
After returning to the call, it’s a good practice to follow up on any points that were discussed while you were on hold. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with the conversation and can contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discussion. You can do this by asking for a summary of the points that were covered or by addressing any questions that may have arisen during your absence.
In conclusion, putting yourself on hold in teams is a necessary skill to maintain effective communication and minimize disruption. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your presence is respected, and the team can continue their work without any interruptions. Remember to use the mute button, activate the hold function, notify the team, return promptly, and follow up on any missed points to maintain professionalism and contribute to a successful team collaboration.
