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Google Meet Basics: How to Join a Video Call

By the Gray Hair Jobs Editorial Team · Published · 2 min read

The short answer

Google Meet is a video calling service from Google. On a computer, it runs in your web browser, so there is usually nothing to install. To join, click the meeting link you were sent, check your camera and microphone, and click Join now or Ask to join. On a phone, the Google Meet app makes joining easier.

Key points

  • Google Meet works in a web browser on a computer.
  • You usually join by clicking a meet.google.com link.
  • A preview screen lets you check your camera and microphone first.
  • The microphone and camera buttons are at the bottom of the screen.
  • On a phone, use the Google Meet app.

Before the call

  1. Find the invitation. It contains a link that starts with meet.google.com.
  2. On a computer, use an up-to-date browser such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.
  3. On a phone or tablet, download the free Google Meet app.
  4. If possible, sign in to a Google account (such as Gmail). It is not always required, but it can make joining smoother.

Join the call

  1. Click the meeting link a few minutes early.
  2. If your browser asks for permission to use your camera and microphone, click Allow.
  3. You will see a preview of yourself. Check that you look and sound right.
  4. Click Join now. If you are not signed in, or the meeting is restricted, you may see Ask to join instead. The host will then let you in.

The exact wording can vary.

Use the controls

The buttons are at the bottom of the screen. Move your mouse if they are hidden.

  • Microphone button turns your sound on or off. It turns red when you are muted.
  • Camera button turns your video on or off.
  • Three dots (More options) opens settings, where you can choose a different microphone, speaker, or camera.
  • Red phone button leaves the call.

Check your audio and video

If the interviewer cannot hear you:

  1. Make sure the microphone button is not red.
  2. Click the three dots, then Settings, then Audio, and choose the correct microphone.
  3. Check your computer's volume.

Tips for an interview

  • Close other tabs and programs to keep your connection steady.
  • Sit with light in front of you.
  • Keep the invitation email open so you can rejoin quickly if needed.

To compare with another common tool, read Zoom basics. For interview preparation, see what is a video interview.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Google account to join a Google Meet call?

Not always. Some meetings let anyone with the link join or ask to join. Others require a Google account. If you have a Gmail address, sign in before joining to avoid problems. If the meeting will not let you in, contact the employer by email.

Why does my browser ask for camera and microphone permission?

Browsers ask before letting any website use your camera or microphone, to protect your privacy. For Google Meet to work, click Allow. If you clicked Block by mistake, look for a small camera icon in the address bar and change the setting there.

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