Our phones serve a myriad of purposes, but its true function is now hardly ever used. While, yes, they still keep us connected, they are meant to allow us a way to actually talk to people who are far away. The same message can be conveyed very differently when spoken live versus through text or email.

Many millennials are unfamiliar with phone calls, having grown up with Instant Messaging with minimal emphasis on actual phone calls. So when one has to pick up the phone and speak with a live person, a certain panic may set in. With text and email, you can edit and perfect your message before you send it. On a phone call, you’ve got to be quick and in the moment. This immediacy can intimidate and frighten some. For those who are weary to get back into phone calls, here are some tips to get over your fear and help you sharpen your phone call skills.

Consider The Benefits

When you speak to someone on the phone, you are more able to tune into the person’s warmth. The tone of their voice alone can help you better understand what they are saying, allowing a more genuine connection. You may also avoid common misunderstandings that tend to happen through text or email. And with each call, you gain more experience at refining your communication skills.

Commit To Making The Call In Advance

An “if-then plan” allows you to be specific and complete your goal. If you give yourself a goal and a timeframe, you’re more likely to stick to it, rather than relying on your willpower. An example is this: “If it’s bad news, I will pick up the phone.” So if you have bad news to deliver, you’ve already set out that you will pick up the phone to make a call. And you will.

Open With A Question

Opening with a question shows that you are interested in the person with whom you’re speaking. You will not only come off as more trusting and sincere, but it may also help to calm your nerves. You will be more focused on listening and engaging, you will, again, be improving your skills.

Don’t Overthink It

Writing a script is not encouraged. Real life conversations aren’t scripted, so your phone call shouldn’t be. Instead, take some time to think about what you want to say beforehand, but be present in the call. Since conversations are two-sided, it’s important to listen and play off of what the other person is saying.

Embrace Authenticity

Text and emails are edited many times so as to craft the perfect conversation. Real life conversations are much less polished, and, thus, more authentic.

Keep Your Eye On The Big Picture

Even if you follow all these tips, not every call will be perfect. But it’s important to remember that every call is a learning experience. You learn from your mistakes, you refine your skills, and you get better.

Know You Will Survive

Did you experience a bad phone call? Take some time to think about what went wrong, and how you can improve, then move on. Don’t dwell on the past. We’ve all had bad phone conversations, but we have all survived, too.

Do you have any other tips share? Feel free to connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest and share with your peers.

Need a phone to make these phone calls? Visit Startechtel.com to browse our stock of business phones, phone systems, and more. Or practice your skills by giving us a call at 1-800-564-8045.

 

Tags: Tips For Better Phone Conversations