Zoom Logistics

Zoom Meetings: Participant Reference Guide

Getting Started:

If you do not have to have a Zoom account, you will be prompted to download the software once you have clicked on the link that you have been provided. You may also wish to create an account, but that is not required to participate in a Zoom meeting.

You will need a computer or device with microphone to participate in a Zoom session.

If you do not wish to have an account, all you’ll need to do to participate is click on the link for the training that your contact will send to you via a Zoom Email Confirmation.

Step 1:  If you have not previously installed the Zoom desktop app it may begin downloading. If it does not begin downloading, click “Download & Run Zoom.”

Step 2:  Your Zoom Desktop Client will download. You will then need to install the client. Note that you may also download clients for IOS and Android devices.

Step 3:  Once you have downloaded zoom, you can now join the meeting. Click on the link provided in the zoom confirmation email. This is a personalized link unique to you so please DO NOT SHARE YOUR URL LINK.

  • Enter the password provided in the meeting invitation
  • Enter you actual name as you want it to appear in the virtual meeting room.

Step 5:  You will be asked to join the audio conference.

  • If you wish to use your computer's speaker and microphone to listen and speak, click "Join by Computer".  If you select this option, please mute your computer.
  • If you wish to join by telephone, click "Phone Call and use the provided information (telephone number, Meeting ID, Participant ID, and password) to dial into the Zoom meeting.
  • If you do not see this message, click the arrow to the right of the “JOIN AUDIO icon (on bottom left hand corner of your screen), and select “Audio Settings.”

Zoom User Tips

These are some following tips to help make sure you have the best experience. It is within your best interests to follow these recommendations to ensure a good quality meeting.

  • Waiting Room: You will initially see the “waiting room” when you join the meeting. Your screen will display “Please wait, the meeting host will let you in soon.” This feature will provide additional security, but you are not required to take any action on your own.
  • Viewing Option: Once on the call, you can select from two viewing options at the top right side of your Zoom screen:
      • Gallery view—which shows all participants in like-sized boxes (suggested)
      • Speaker view—which enlarges the current speaker
  • Chat Function: Please note there is an option to type and 'chat' with the entire group or to an individual. Please feel free to use this feature if you wish to communicate with us in writing during the call, separate from speaking.

To access the chat function, go to the bottom of your screen and click the button labeled “Chat”.

  • Raise Your Hand: Should you have a question, please “Raise Your Hand”. To do this, go to the bottom of the screen and click on the icon labeled “Participant”, then click the button labeled “Raise Hand”. The Chair/Moderator will see this and call on you shortly.

NOTE: Please make sure to lower your hand after asking your question by clicking on the icon that says, “Lower Hand”.

  • Phone Only? Dial *9
  • Muting Your Microphone when you are not talking: In order to reduce background noise and maintain the highest quality control of audio, we ask that everyone please make your microphone during the meeting.
  • Phone Only? Dial *6

Additional Tips:

  • Obtain a computer headset. This will greatly reduce the chance for feedback and improve your voice quality for those who are communicating with you on the other side. Headsets that connect via USB are the best choice.
  • When possible, connect to the Internet with a physical cable connection, not just Wi-Fi. This will give you much greater speed and service.
  • A laptop or desktop is preferred over a Smartphone or tablet.
  • Don’t be outside. Wind and background noise makes your device’s microphone adjust and your voice may sound muffled.
  • Don’t have several programs running while using Zoom. Close all unnecessary applications during your call so all processing power can be used to maximize the quality of your Zoom session.