1. Check to make sure the external microphone is connected properly to the laptop.
2. Check the settings on the relevant applications to make sure the external microphone is selected as the audio source.
3. Update the audio drivers on the laptop.
4. Make sure that the microphone is not disabled in the laptop’s audio settings.
5. Check the microphone for any damage that might be blocking sound.
6. Try a different port on the laptop for the external microphone.
7. Test the external microphone on a different device to make sure it is working properly.