Simon’s Notes

Getting on the phone for business is never an easy task. Actually for some people it is, but for most its not, especially if you’re a newbie to the world of business. There are a lot of very stressed out and nasty people out there, and there are other people that are just plain annoying. But if you can get used to and follow a few simple habits and guidelines you might find that your phone experiences will improve.

I’ve put together a few pointers that I use when I’m on the phone. This is in no way an exhaustive list, but if it helps you a little, then I’m happy.

• Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you. Always be polite, you receive what you give, so don’t expect people to treat you with respect if you don’t treat others with respect. If you’re feeling frustrated, resist the urge to snap, it’ll only make things worse.
• Identify yourself immediately. I’ve sometimes answered the phone with a ‘hello, who’s this?’, this is the wrong way to go about it. The right way would be ‘Hello, this is Simon speaking, how can I help you?’
• Don’t drag out your phone calls. This is fine for personal calls, but in the business world we are all very busy, so be alert and only say what is necessary, leave all the details for an e-mail or fax.
• Always get people’s details such as name and number. I can’t tell you exactly why this is necessary but I can tell you that I have often regretted not doing it, so take that extra minute to get their name and number.
• Unless you have a very legitimate reason to apologize, don’t do it. I’ve seen some people on the phone that spend more time apologizing than doing business. They apologize for the call, the weather, the soccer score, and everything else short of being alive (although some apologize for this too). Apologizing is not cool, and it won’t make the other guy like you better.
• Try not to stutter and umm. If necessary, write out your call and practice it a little beforehand, eventually you will get better at making them.

If you don’t think you can start developing these habits, then please get a secretary, you might see your business results improve dramatically.

Simon

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Filed under: Money and Finances by Simon Rodrigues