How to Use Skype for Business

Using Skype for Business: A Simple Guide

Hey there! Skype for Business is pretty much a thing of the past now, it's been replaced by Microsoft Teams. But, some folks still use it, or are slowly moving over to Teams. This guide will help you use Skype for Business for video calls, meetings, and chatting—even if you're soon switching to Teams.

Getting Started: Setting Up Skype for Business

First things first: you need to install Skype for Business. Usually, your company's IT people will help you with this, or you can get it through your Microsoft account. It's pretty easy to install—just follow the instructions. Once it's installed, sign in with your work account. That'll connect you to your coworkers.

After installing, remember to:

• Sign in: Use your company username and password.
• Set up your profile: Add a nice picture and correct info. This makes it easier for people to find you.
• Check your settings: Test your mic and webcam before your first meeting! You don't want any surprises.

Making and Receiving Calls: The Basics

Skype for Business lets you call people in a few ways. Here's how:

1. Making a call: Find the person you want to call—search by name or email. Click their name and choose voice or video.
2. Answering a call: You'll see an alert when someone calls. Click "Answer"—or ignore it if you're busy.
3. During a call: You can mute, unmute, put the call on hold, or end it. Some setups let you share your screen, too.

Video Conferencing: Meetings Made Easy

Video calls are super important for remote teams! Here's how to use them in Skype for Business:

• Scheduling a video meeting: Skype has a calendar tool to schedule meetings with video. It's really easy.
• Starting a video meeting: Click "Start Video" during a meeting to turn on your camera. Make sure your webcam is working!
• Meeting controls: You can manage audio, video, add people, mute folks, and share your screen.
• Tip: Good lighting and a quiet background make for better video calls. A headset helps too.

Instant Messaging: Quick Chats

Need a quick message? Skype has instant messaging (IM) for that!

1. Sending messages: Open a chat with someone, type your message, and hit "Enter".
2. Sharing files: Easily share documents, pictures, etc. directly in the chat.
3. Group chats: Chat with multiple people at once.
4. Persistent chat rooms: These are for ongoing conversations, even if people are offline.

Screen Sharing: Show and Tell

Need to show someone something on your screen? Here's how to share your screen:

• Sharing your screen: Click "Share Screen" during a call or meeting. You can choose what to share.
• Controlling sharing: You can stop sharing or even let others control your screen.
• Tip: Clean up your screen before sharing! You don't want to show anything private.

Your Status: Let People Know What's Up

Skype shows your status to coworkers—like "Available," "Busy," or "Away." This helps people know when to reach you.

• Status indicators: Learn what each status means.
• Setting your status: Change your status manually.
• Custom messages: Add a short message like "In a meeting" or "Working on a project".

Advanced Stuff: Extra Features

Skype has some other cool features:

• Call recording: Record calls (check your company's rules first).
• Transcription: Some versions automatically transcribe calls.
• Works with other apps: It can connect with other work tools.
• Call transfer and delegation: Manage calls more easily.

Troubleshooting: Fixing Problems

Having trouble? Here are some common fixes:

• Audio problems: Check your mic and speakers. Make sure they're set up correctly.
• Video problems: Check your webcam connection and lighting.
• Connection issues: Make sure your internet is working. Restart your computer if needed.
• Sign-in problems: Double-check your username and password. If it's still not working, talk to your IT team.

Moving to Microsoft Teams

Remember, Microsoft Teams is the new and improved version of Skype for Business. It has more features! If your company is moving to Teams, it's a good idea to learn how to use it. Many of the things you learned here will help you with Teams.

That's it! With a little practice, you'll be a Skype for Business pro. If you have any questions, ask your IT department for help.