How do I transfer a call in Microsoft Teams? The first step is knowing exactly where to find the right controls. During a busy workday, confusion over transferring calls can slow down the workflow. Microsoft Teams simplifies transferring calls, but it isn’t always immediately obvious, especially when switching between desktop and mobile devices. This guide explains every transfer option, when to use each one, and how to prevent common issues that affect your team’s efficiency.
Whether you need to transfer a call on Teams for customer support, route internal queries, or assist unavailable colleagues, this walkthrough shows you how to transfer calls smoothly.
Types of Call Transfers in Microsoft Teams
There are three primary ways to transfer a call on Teams, each suited for different situations to keep the call experience professional:
1. Blind transfer in Teams
A blind transfer sends the call directly to another person without checking if they’re available. Use it when:
- The caller already knows who they want
- The transfer is routine
- Speed is more important than context
The downside is that if the recipient doesn’t answer, the call may bounce back or go to voicemail.
Tip: To transfer a call on Teams quickly, blind transfer is the fastest method.
2. Consultative transfer in Teams
With consultative transfer, you speak to the recipient first via chat or a quick voice call before transferring. This is ideal when:
- The caller needs specific assistance
- You want to confirm the recipient’s availability
- You need to provide context before transferring
It’s slower than blind transfer, but it prevents calls from going to unavailable recipients.
3. Transfer to Voicemail in Teams
If the intended recipient isn’t available, you can transfer the call directly to their voicemail. This is useful when:
- Someone is in a meeting
- They’re working outside office hours
- You’ve been asked to take messages
This method avoids interruptions and allows the caller to leave a message promptly.
How to Transfer a Call on Microsoft Teams (Desktop)
Desktop offers full control, especially for business calls.
Step-by-Step for Blind Transfer on Desktop
Step-by-Step for Blind Transfer on Desktop
- On the call, find the Call Controls bar.
- Click “More actions” (three dots).
- Choose “Transfer.”
- Search for the person or group.
- Click their name to complete the transfer.
The caller moves from your line to theirs instantly.
Step-by-Step for Consultative Transfer on Desktop
- Click “More actions” → “Consult then transfer.”
- Teams opens a panel to chat or call the recipient.
- Provide clear context.
- After their confirmation, click “Transfer.”
This reduces call bounce-backs and missed connections.
Ready to simplify your Microsoft Teams call management?
How to Transfer a Call on Microsoft Teams (Mobile)
The mobile app supports both blind and consultative transfers, though with fewer controls.
Blind Transfer on Mobile
- Tap the screen during a call to show options.
- Select “More options.”
- Tap “Transfer.”
- Search for a contact.
- Tap their name to transfer.
It mirrors the desktop process in a compact form.
Consultative Transfer on Mobile
- Tap “More options” → “Consult then transfer.”
- Chat or call the colleague first.
- Provide context.
- Once ready, tap “Transfer.”
This reduces call bounce-backs and missed connections.
How to Transfer a Call to Voicemail in Teams
Transferring calls to voicemail is simple but a little hidden:
- Click “More actions” during a call.
- Select “Transfer.”
- Search for the contact.
- Click the arrow next to their name.
- Choose “Voicemail.”
Calls go to voicemail immediately, letting callers leave messages without disrupting you.
Tips and Common Mistakes
- Avoid partial name searches Teams might not recognise them properly.
- Always check presence status: Green or “Available” works best; red or “Busy” often means no pickup.
- Never mute before transferring many forget they’re muted and think the call dropped.
Forwarding vs Transferring a Call on Teams
Transferring
- Occurs during a live call
- You remain connected until completion
- Manual choice of recipient
Forwarding
- Happens before calls ring
- Automatic routing based on rules
- No real-time involvement
Transferring acts like a live handover; forwarding sets up automatic paths ahead of time.
Common Teams Transfer Issues and Fixes
1. Transfer Button Missing
- Lacking a phone system license
- Wrong call routing setup
- Admin restrictions in place
Fix: Have your admin verify the Phone System license and Calling Plan or Direct Routing.
2.Transfer Fails After Selection
- Weak network
- Recipient offline
- Routing delays
Fix: Check the connection, confirm the status, or switch to consultative transfer.
3. Recipient's Phone Rings Endlessly
- Recipient away from the desk
- Device disconnected
- Multiple sign-ins
Fix: Tell them to sign out/in, or route to voicemail.
4. Calls Bounce Back
- No answer from the recipient
- Misconfigured numbers
- Voicemail rules overriding
Fix: Admin reviews call answering rules.
Best Practices for Smoother Call Transfers
- Verify the presence status first.
- Use consultative transfers for key calls.
- Prepare notes like “Caller has a billing question.”
- Opt for Wi-Fi over mobile data for critical transfers.
- Train your team on blind, consultative, and voicemail options.
For more guidance on setting up Teams calling features and managing calls efficiently, check out our Microsoft Teams Phone System setup guide.
FAQs:
Why can’t I transfer a call in Teams?
This usually happens if your account doesn’t have the required Phone System license or your admin hasn’t enabled calling permissions. Sometimes, network issues can also block transfers.
Can I transfer a call to an external number?
Yes, as long as your organisation allows external calling via a Calling Plan or Direct Routing, and your admin has given permission.
Is consultative transfer available on mobile?
Yes, it is available, though the mobile app can be a bit slower compared to desktop due to screen size and interface.
Does the caller know I’m consulting someone?
No, the caller is placed on hold with music during consultative transfers, so they won’t notice.
Can I undo a transfer?
No, once transferred, the call can’t be undone. You’d need to call back if needed.
How do I transfer a call on Teams without putting the caller on hold?
Use blind transfer to instantly send the call without placing the caller on hold, but be aware the recipient might be unavailable.
Conclusion
Mastering how to transfer a call in Microsoft Teams takes practice, as options hide until you explore them. With blind, consultative, and voicemail methods covered for desktop and mobile, you’ll cut delays and confusion. Apply these best practices to streamline handovers in support, sales, or any busy team setup.
See how the Microsoft Teams Phone System can streamline your call transfers
