Telephone Answering Skills

   — In a hurry?

   — Rushed by a deadline?

   — Stressed by a previous conversation?

   — Distracted by other tasks?

We often forget that answering the phone initiates a conversation with another person. In the stress of the moment, we can overlook the fact that we are about to speak with a person and not to a machine.

The first moments of a telephone conversation — when we answer the phone — may determine the success or failure of the interaction.

Remember that how you answer the phone can affect your success in both personal and business relationships.

1. Smile.

It may sound silly at first, and it still works. When you smile, your voice tone becomes more friendly.

2. Say hello.

You may be in a hurry, but good people skills still apply. Saying hello does not take that long, and it makes you more human to the other person.

3. Say your name.

They are a person, and they want to know that you are a person. Names make the conversation more personal.

4. Say the name of your organization.

This tip applies more for organizations where the caller may not know for certain that they reached the right business, church, club, etc. If you work in a large organization, stating the name of the organization can remove some tension for the caller by confirming that they reached the right place.

5. Use a friendly tone.

Smiling will help you to do this. You also need to make an intentional effort to let the caller know that you are not angry or frustrated with them because they called.

6. Speak up.

It is very easy to mumble or garble your words if you are in the middle of another task when you answer the phone. Consciously "shift gears" when you pick-up the phone so that the caller can understand you.

7. Speak clearly.

Like tip number 6 states, it is also very easy to speak softly if you are in the middle of another task when you answer the phone. Focus on speaking up when you pick-up the phone so that the caller can hear you.

Sell Naked On The Phone