5 More Tips To Help You Have Great Skype Calls
If you’ve been using Skype for a while, you’re familiar with the ins and outs of calling friends, having online video conversations, and using the built in instant messenger service. That doesn’t mean you’re using Skype to its fullest potential, though. Here are a few extra tips and tricks that you might not be aware of which will help improve your Skype experience.
1. Use a microphone and headset. You might be surprised at the improvement in call quality. The reason is that your microphone is often quite close to your speakers, generally causing minor interference. Even if it doesn’t bother you normally, it’s worth giving headphones a try. You might look a bit goofy to your friend, but at least they will hear your every word.
2. Send files to your family and friends. Did you know that you could use Skype to send documents and pictures? In this respect, it’s just like any other instant messaging client and may be more convenient than leaving the window to send an email. You’ll both be able to view the file’s progress as it goes across.
Sending files is easy. Just click on the Conversation tab at the top of the Skype client. You’ll see Send right at the top. Hover over it to open up the menu, then choose file. You’ll then be able to browse and send the file across immediately.
3. Share your screen. This is a great feature if you’re having technical problems and need help or if you simply want to get someone else’s feedback on a design or document. It’s easy, too. Just head to the same tab as in tip 2 – the Conversation tab – and this time choose Share Screen. You’ll be able to choose from your full screen or just the particular segment you’d like to share. Whenever you’re frustrated that you can’t show something to someone far away, remember that you can with screen sharing.
4. Use Skype on your mobile. If you have a smartphone with unlimited broadband, chances are you can start using Skype on your mobile today. You can also use it on more phones if you have access to a wireless connection. You’ll be able to access your Skype Credit and call internationally just like you normally would. iPhone users can download the app to make it even easier to use Skype on their phone, and Symbian users can also download Skype from the Nokia ovi store.
Mobile operator 3 in the UK also offers Skype on its phones. Two different Skypephones work as normal smartphones with Skype automatically built in.
5. Call forwarding. If you’ve hesitated to switch to Skype because you’re not always at your PC, hesitate no longer. You can forward calls to your ordinary landline or mobile phone. It does come at the price of Skype credit – for you, not for your caller – but if you have an unlimited subscription plan anyway, enabling this option will make your life much easier.