Getting Started with Microsoft Teams

The Microsoft Teams Logo. The letter T in a blue box. Two blue simplified human shaped graphics behind the box that contains the letter T. Next to the log is Microsoft Teams spelled out.

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration app built for hybrid work, helping you and your team stay informed, organized, and connected—all in one place. This guide will help you get started with Microsoft Teams.

 

Accessing Microsoft Teams

You can access Microsoft Teams in several ways:

  • Desktop App: If you are using a PVCC issued device, Microsoft Teams should already be installed. If you cannot find the app, please reach out to the Help Desk.
  • Mobile App: Get the Teams app for iOS or Android from your device's app store.
  • Web App: Use Teams directly in your web browser at teams.microsoft.com.

 

Setting Up Your Profile

  • Sign In: Use your @pvcc.edu address to sign in.
  • Profile Settings: Click on your profile picture to update your photo, and set your availability and status message. Your availability will automatically change based on scheduled events and meeting in outlook. 
  •  Account Settings: Click the three dots at the top of the app. From there you can zoom in or out or click on Settings. In the settings page you can adjust your notification settings, app appearance, and more.

Screenshot of the top of Teams Application showing the three dots and settings drop down.

 

Navigating the Interface

Screenshot of Teams Navigation. Icons are stacked vertically showing: Activity, Teams, Calls, Chat, Calendar, One Drive, and + Apps

  • Activity: View all your notifications, mentions, and replies.
  • Teams: Join teams and channels to collaborate on projects. If believe that a project your are working on would benefit from Teams site, please fill out this form: Click Here!
  • Calls: Place and receive calls.
  • Chat: Send messages to individuals or groups, share files, and use rich text formatting.
  • Calendar: Schedule and join meetings, which sync with your Outlook calendar.
  • Files: Access and share files stored in OneDrive or SharePoint.
  • + Apps: Browse other Microsoft 365 Apps to access right from Teams. 

Image shows a generic Teams interface, with simple shapes to show the messaging section of Teams.

 

Creating and Managing Teams

  • Create a Team: If believe that a project you are working on or a group your are working with would benefit from a Teams site, please fill out this form: Click Here!
  • Join a Team: Click on "Teams" > "Join team"
  • Add Members: Invite colleagues by entering their email addresses.
  • Create Channels: Organize your team’s conversations and files by creating channels for different topics or projects.

 

Chat and Collaboration

  • Starting a Chat: Click on "Chat" > "New chat" and enter the names of the people you want to message.
  • Sharing Files: Attach files directly in your chat or upload them to the Files tab in a channel.
  • Using Apps: Add tabs for apps like OneNote, Planner, or other approved Microsoft 365 Apps to enhance collaboration.

 

Meetings and Calls

  • Scheduling Meetings: Go to "Calendar" > "New meeting" and fill in the details.
    • Scheduling Assistant: Use Scheduling Assistant to find free time on everybody's calendar. 
  • Joining Meetings: Click on the meeting link in your calendar or join directly from a channel.
  • Using Meeting Features: Share your screen, use the chat, and record meetings for later reference

 

Microsoft Resources

Getting Started with Chat 

Getting Started with Meetings 

Manage Notification Settings 

Need More Help?

Connect with PVCC Technology Services:

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