Business phone calls: they can be pretty nerve wrecking, right? Even if you’re a natural people person and easy talker, talking business on the phone can be challenging. Sure, once the conversation flows, everything is fine. But it’s often the lead up that causes the nerves! So, to make business phone calls in ease, here are my 5 best tips to handle it:
Let the other person ring
This might sound silly, but if the step of picking up the phone and dial freaks you out, simply propose that the other person calls YOU. Usually you’d set the date and time for the phone call per email, which will give you the opportunity to get this sorted. Why is this good if you’re a nervous caller? Because it makes the person on the other side of the line is inclined to start up the conversation. And then all you have to do is just flow with it….
Work with bullet points
A phone call is less nerve wrecking when you’ve got your own facts, figures and points of discussion straight. Write out your priorities, the things you absolutely have to discuss and need answers on to guide you through the conversation. Preperation is everything! Also always consider what you want to get out of the conversation.
Practice
Practice on your own and speak out loud. Once you’ve got your bullet points list, just speak them up in sentences so you can immediately see where to improve or what to add or leave out. Practicing before the actual call will definitely help you to feel calmer and more confident.
Always introduce yourself
Even though the person you’re talking with knows who you are, a quick and strong introduction never hurts. Speaking out what you do for your company and what your company stands for communicates professionalism and reminds your conversation partner why you’d be a great fit to work with. Professional and smart phone etiquette really brings you places! Speaking from experience here.
Enthusiasm is key
Alwasy be enthousiast! Let them feel your good energy. Make a joke, break the ice, be interested. A little chit chat before the big business talk begins is a good idea, but ofcourse never lose track of why you’re having this phone meeting to begin with.
I hope these tips were helpful! How do you beat your phone call fears?
