Although I’m a huge fan of technology, I’m not exactly an early adopter. I usually have to be convinced that something’s worthwhile before I’ll give it a try.
Twitter’s a good example of that. I was aware of it for several months before I signed up for an account, and I only did it then because Julie Bestry convinced me it would be a good way to promote my blog. It was several months after that before I incorporated it in my regular routine.
Another example is Skype,a service that lets you have voice or text conversations across the Internet. I’d heard of it, but didn’t really see a need for it myself. My long distance plan includes 300 minutes per month, anywhere in North America, and it’s very rare that I exceed that. And I already have several instant messaging accounts, most of which I don’t use, so why would I want another?
Last year, as you may remember, I did a teleseminar with Marcia Francois on Everything You EVER Wanted to Know about Organizing Your Computer. We needed to connect to plan the session, and since Marcia is in South Africa, a regular long distance call just wasn’t practical, so I downloaded Skype. I have to admit, it was pretty amazing to be talking to someone on the other side of the world, and knowing it wasn’t costing me a cent!
Since that time, I’ve had occasion to use Skype to talk to people in the Caribbean, in Britain, and in Germany, so needless to say, I now appreciate its value. I’ve even used it to speak to a client in a nearby city who has decided that between Skype and her cell phone, she really doesn’t need a landline!
What’s really great is that there’s no cost to use Skype, as long as you’re communicating with other Skype users. Other than your computer and Internet connection (which I assume you already have), you only need a computer headset
For a fee, additional services are available, including the ability to call people on their landline or mobile phone, send and receive voicemail, and more. Depending on your requirements, you can choose to buy credits, which are good for up to 180 days, or an unlimited monthly plan. I see that their unlimited plan is an even better deal than I get from my cable company… time for another change?
Photo Credit: Andreas Hagerman
I love Skype. Many members of the Canadian Forces use it to “visit” their families when they are deployed. I don’t know what I would do without it!
I use Skype to stay in touch with everyone outside of Spain. And I use it to work with my clients. It can sometimes have iffy quality but that’s happening less and less often.
Jacki and Alex, it sure sounds like Skype has become one of those things that didn’t exist not so very long ago, but that are now indispensable!
Our friends have found Skype a great way to stay in touch with the kids, living in France and the Yukon. I actually had my first Skype conversation recently with – you won’t believe this – our dad! I don’t have a headset, but do have a webcam. Pretty neat.
I love SKYPE, I stay in touch with friends overseas, I contacted my family via video when I was overseas, and it is great for virtual client opportunities. I have also purchased a SKYPE credit and have used it many times to call land lines….it is very cost efficient.
Love technology.
Kathy, that is a big surprise!
Elaine, Skype’s a perfect tool for coaching and other situations where you’re going to be talking for an hour or more. Even with a good long distance plan, those hours can really add up!