If you communicate and collaborate with people in multiple locations, then you want to know how to use Zoom.
Zoom is a web conferencing service that is free to use for group meetings up to 40 minutes. The Pro version features unlimited duration group meetings.
I’ve used what seems to be every web conferencing tool out there including WebEx, GoToMeeting, Skype, ClickMeeting, and Google Hangouts, and I think Zoom is the best option for a few of reasons.
- It has many, many features in the free version, including up to 50 participants and unlimited meetings. The Pro version is extremely cost effective ($14.99 a month, which is a small fraction of what most other services charge for the same features) and is the version I use.
- It’s very reliable and more intuitive than other options.
- It has great engagement features like annotation, chat, screensharing, and breakout rooms, which make it fantastic for leading webinars or online classes.
- You can record (and even automatically record) your meetings for future reference.
You can sign up for free here.
How to Use Zoom
Below is a complete video tutorial on how to use this communication tool; scroll down if you want a list of step-by-step instructions or to download the simple PDF checklist.
Getting Started
1.1. If you don’t have an account, sign up
1.2. Download Zoom to your computer and/or phone and complete installation
1.3. Open Zoom and select “Sign in”
1.4. Set your audio and video settings
1.5. Review and edit profile settings
Join a Meeting
2.1. Open Zoom
2.2. Select Join
2.3. Enter Meeting ID
2.4. Double check audio and video settings
Host a meeting/webinar
3.1. Schedule a meeting
3.2. Add meeting details
3.3. Invite participants
3.4. Set up your desktop with documents/materials you want to share
3.5. Start meeting (from web app, desktop app, or phone app)
3.6. Check audio and video settings
3.7. Record
3.8. Share your screen
3.9. Manage participants
3.10. Chat
3.11. End meeting
3.12. Access recording
