Getting Started with Microsoft Teams

Purpose

This article helps you get started with Microsoft Teams, including how to sign in, navigate the app, and perform common tasks like chatting and joining meetings.

Applies To

  • Microsoft 365
  • Microsoft Teams

Audience

  • All employees
  • New hires

Overview

Microsoft Teams is the primary collaboration tool used for chat, online meetings, and file sharing. It allows teams to communicate and work together in one place, whether you’re in the office or working remotely.

You can use Teams in a web browser, on your computer, or on your mobile device.

Getting Started

Step 1: Sign in to Microsoft 365

  1. Open a web browser and go to:
    https://mail.icc.edu
  2. Sign in using your work email address and password

✅ Make sure you are signing in with your work account, not a personal Microsoft account.

Step 2: Open Microsoft Teams

  1. From the Microsoft 365 home page, select the App Launcher (nine dots in the top‑left corner)
  2. Select Teams

Step 3: Understand the Teams Layout

  • Activity – Notifications and alerts
  • Chat – One‑on‑one or group conversations
  • Teams – Team and channel conversations
  • Calendar – Meetings and calls
  • OneDrive – File storage location

Common Tasks

Start a Chat

  1. Select Chat
  2. Select New Chat
  3. Enter a name and type your message

Join a Teams Meeting

  • Select Calendar → choose the meeting → Join
  • Or click Join Microsoft Teams Meeting from your Outlook calendar invite

Share a File

  • In a chat or channel, select the paperclip (Attach) icon
  • Choose a file from your computer or OneDrive

Adding a Whiteboard During a Teams Meeting

  1. Click Share (the rectangle-with-arrow icon).
  2. Select Microsoft Whiteboard.
  3. A shared whiteboard opens for all participants.

Everyone in the meeting can:

  • Draw, type, and add sticky notes
  • Insert images and templates
  • Collaborate simultaneously (with live cursors)
  • Continue accessing the board after the meeting from the meeting chat

Tips & Best Practices

  • Use Chats for quick conversations
  • Use Channels for team‑wide discussions
  • Mute your microphone when not speaking in meetings
  • Keep Teams open during the workday for notifications

Common Questions

Do I need to install Teams?
No. You can use Teams in a web browser. Installing the desktop app is optional.

Can I use Teams on my phone?
Yes. Microsoft Teams is available for iOS and Android.

Why don’t I see any teams?
You may not have been added to a team yet. Contact your manager if you believe you should have access.

Before Contacting the Service Desk

Please confirm that you have:

  • Signed in at https://mail.icc.edu
  • Used your work account
  • Tried accessing Teams using https://teams.cloud.microsoft

Still Need Help?

If you are unable to access Microsoft Teams or receive an error message, please submit a Service Desk ticket and include:

  • The exact error message (if shown)
  • Whether you are using a browser or the Teams app
  • The device you are using

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