Teams - Getting Started

Background Information

Microsoft Teams provides instant messaging and online meeting functionality. Teams will open automatically when you log in to your network account. This job aide lists the most-used functions of Teams Chat. There is an additional job aide that lists Teams Online Meeting features.

Start a Chat (Conversation)

  1. In the Microsoft Teams panel, click the Chat icon in the left-hand navigation bar. This will open the Chat history in the middle panel of the screen.
  2. In the upper-right corner of the Chat history list, click the icon to start a new Chat.
  3. The main panel to the right of the Chat history list displays a Search field and a message field. Use these fields to enter and add recipient names.
  4. Start the conversation by typing in the message field at the bottom of the Chat panel. Click the Return key on the keyboard to send the message.
  5. The following Chat options are shown below the message field.
    • Text Format Tools
    • Urgent Message Icon
    • Add Attachment
    • Add Emojis, GIFs, Stickers to Chats
  6. Additional functionality is available in the top right corner of the message panel.

 

Set Your Background

Microsoft Teams allows you to use a Background image behind your image when using the camera.  The Enterprise has provided a pre-approved background image. 

  1. In the lobby of the meeting, select “Background filters”.
  2. Select the Background Image you'd like to use.

 

Set Your Status

Microsoft Teams allows you to display your availability for others to see. By default, this status is determined by your Outlook calendar, but users have the option to manually set their status from the Teams panel, or the Windows Taskbar. To do so, follow either of the following steps:

  1. In the Microsoft Teams panel, click on your Account icon. This can be found in the upper-right corner of the panel.
  2. From the menu, click the right facing arrow to the right of Availability.
  3. Select your Status from the pop-up panel. Statuses include:
    • Available
    • Busy
    • Do Not Disturb
    • Be Right Back
    • Appear Away
    • Appear Offline
  4. This panel is also accessible by right clicking the Teams icon in the lower taskbar on the computer screen, and selecting Availability.

 

To review images or save/download/print a copy of this Job Aide, please select the pdf attachment.

Print Article