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Zoom Etiquette: How to Raise Your Hand Effectively

Raising your hand in a Zoom meeting is an essential way to actively participate and engage with others in virtual discussions. Whether you’re attending an online class, a team meeting, or a webinar, knowing how to utilize the “Raise Hand” feature can ensure that your presence is acknowledged and your input is valued. In this guide, we will explore the straightforward steps to raise your hand in Zoom. By following these instructions, you will be able to effectively signal your desire to speak, ask a question, or contribute to the conversation, fostering a collaborative and interactive virtual meeting environment.

Also Check: Zoom Camera Not Working – Causes & Fixes

What Is Zoom’s “Raise Hand” Feature?

Zoom’s “Raise Hand” feature is a handy tool that lets you show that you want to speak or share something in a virtual meeting. Instead of interrupting others, you can simply click a button to raise a virtual hand. This alerts the host and other participants that you have something to say or a question to ask.

It helps keep the conversation organized and fair, giving everyone an equal chance to be heard. This feature is especially helpful in big meetings or classes where speaking up can be challenging. Using Zoom’s “Raise Hand” feature makes meetings smoother and more inclusive, encouraging better discussions.

Prerequisites for Using the Raise Hand Feature in a Webinar

Before we tell you how to use the feature, let us look into the prerequisites for using this feature. This way, you can ensure that you are capable of using the feature on your platform. Apart from the application itself, here are some prerequisites that you should consider which allow you to use the Raise Hand feature on Zoom.

Zoom Desktop Client Prerequisites:

  • If you are using Zoom on Windows OS, make sure that the client you are using is v3.5.24604 or higher.
  • If you are using Zoom on macOS, make sure that the client you are using is v3.5.24604 or higher.
  • For the Linux OS, the client should be at least v1.1.44485.0317, if not higher.

Zoom Mobile Client Prerequisites::

  • For the iOS operating system, the Zoom client must be v.3.5.31169.1102.
  • For the Android operating system, the Zoom client must be v3.5.24588.0824.

How to Raise Your Hand in Zoom on Android and iOS

Using the Raise Hand feature is pretty easy on Android. Once you have joined a session, you will be able to use the feature by simply tapping on a single button. Here’s how to do that.

  • Launch the Zoom app and join the meeting that you wish to attend.
  • Once you are in the meeting, you will be able to access the features available for the online sessions.
  • Tap on the screen once to display the options on the Zoom application.
  • Click on the “More” option to access additional features. It is the 3 horizontal dot icon on the lower-left section of your screen.
  • There are multiple additional options available here. In the lower section, you will find a couple of emojis which will appear on your profile once you tap them.

How to raise your hand in Zoom on an Android

  • On top of the emojis, there is a “Raise Hand” option. Once you tap on that, the host will know that you have raised a hand.

Raise Hand in zoom

  • There is also a “Lower Hand” button that appears once you tap on the previous option. This will let the host know that you no longer have the doubt.

Lower Hand in zoom

  • Keep in mind that you will have to manually mute your mic once your conversation is over.

How to Raise Your Hand in Zoom on Desktop or Web

Zoom’s desktop application is pretty simple and straightforward. Compared to other desktop applications, Zoom offers a pretty easy user interface that resembles that of a smartphone. Therefore, it is equally easy to use the feature on the desktop application or web browsers.

  • Once you are on the desktop zoom application, log in to confirm your identity.
  • Then, simply join the meeting via the meeting code or the invitation link.
  • Once you are in the meeting, you will find a “Participants” option on the lower section of the app.
  • Click on it to open the “Participants” menu.

How to Raise Your Hand in Zoom on Desktop or Web

  • Here, you will see the “Raise Hand” option from this screen. This will utilize the “Raise Hand” feature to let the host know about your doubt.

Raise hand in zoom meeting

  • Alternatively, you can use the “Alt + Y” key combination to quickly use the “Raise Hand” feature.
  • If you are using macOS, you will have to use the “Option + Y” key combination for the same feature.
  • You can also lower your hand by pressing the same key combination for both operating systems respectively.
  • In this case, you still need to mute your mic manually. So, keep that in mind once the conversation is over.

How to Raise Your Hand in Zoom Via Telephone

Zoom offers a unique solution for home classes, catering to individuals without a stable internet connection. With Zoom’s telephone option, the host can conduct meetings, making it accessible for everyone. Even when participating via telephone, you can still utilize the “Raise Hand” feature.

To raise your hand during a Zoom meeting on a telephone, simply press “* and 9” on the dial pad. This notifies the host, who will then acknowledge your raised hand and give you an opportunity to ask your question or share your thoughts. Although the “Lower Hand” feature isn’t available on the telephone, the host can assist you with lowering your hand if needed.

Zoom’s telephone functionality ensures inclusivity, allowing all participants to actively engage in meetings and contribute to the discussion, regardless of their internet connectivity.

How To Raise Hand in Zoom Dial-In Calls

How to Raise Hand in Zoom FAQs

1. What should I do if my raised hand is not noticed in a large meeting?

Ans: In larger meetings, try using visual cues like nodding or using contrasting backgrounds to draw attention to your raised hand.

2. Can I use keyboard shortcuts to raise and lower my hand in Zoom?

Ans: Yes, Zoom offers keyboard shortcuts like Alt + Y (Windows) / Option + Y (Mac) to raise your hand and Alt + H (Windows) / Option + H (Mac) to lower it.

3. What role do moderators play in encouraging hand-raising?

Ans: Moderators can facilitate discussions, manage raised hands, and create an inclusive atmosphere that encourages active participation.

4. What if I’m using a touch-screen device?

Ans: On touch-screen devices, you can find the “Raise Hand” option under the “More” menu during a Zoom meeting.

5. Can the host see who raised their hand first?

Ans: Yes, the participant list shows the order in which hands were raised, allowing the host to address questions accordingly.

6. Is there a limit to how many times I can raise my hand?

Ans: There’s no strict limit, but it’s best to use the “Raise Hand” feature thoughtfully to maintain a productive meeting environment.

Conclusion

Zoom has introduced a unique approach to facilitate home classes, even for individuals without a stable internet connection. They have devised a solution where meetings can be conducted via telephones, enabling everyone to participate regardless of their connectivity. One remarkable feature is that even when using a telephone, attendees still have access to the “Raise Hand” feature.

When connected to a Zoom meeting through a telephone, simply press the asterisk (*) and the number 9 on the dial pad to utilize the “Raise Hand” feature. This action notifies the host, who will promptly receive your request and allow you to ask your question or contribute to the discussion. Although the telephone option doesn’t support the “Lower Hand” feature directly, the host is able to manage it on your behalf, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants.

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