LISTEN:
Listen first to determine whether the frequency is already being used. You're welcome to join the conversation, but wait for a pause before transmitting your call sign. Someone will acknowledge you and let you know when it's your turn to speak. A conversation with two or more participants is called a roundtable, where each person takes a turn to speak.
If you don't hear anyone talking, transmit your call sign and wait for a response. Hint: During your conversation, try asking what "full quieting" and "fry-panning" mean as they're terms you'll hear and use often!
REMEMBER:
When using a repeater, PTT is more referring to "Push-Then-Talk" rather than "Push-To-Talk". Hold down your transmit button, pause a second or two so you can properly activate the repeater(Often called a machine), then talk!RELAX:
It's okay if you make a mistake! You will be corrected respectfully. Also, keep in mind that Hams will always be happy to answer questions and talk about the many ways you can enjoy the hobby!
JOIN:
Our lobby in Washington and the American Radio League(ARRL) are great resources on everything Ham. Check them out HERE to see how they are working for us and see what perks they offer.(Such as the magazine "QST"). Consider joining!
HERE is a link to the club I belong to.
CLOWNS:
There are folks out there that transmit illegally. They sometimes speak and other times transmit without talking. It is illegal to talk or respond to them! They usually stop when ignored.