How many people do you know who stammer and stutter on the phone? Or leave long, garbled messages on your voicemail? According to experts, people form an impression of us within the first four seconds of a phone call. That's why it's important to handle yourself well on the phone. Here are some tips to improve your spoken image.
Answering the phone
Visual clues are missing in phone conversation, so be mindful of your 'phone voice'. When you pick up the phone, try to sound like you want to speak to the other person. Instead of beginning with 'Yeah', which suggests you're impatient, say 'Hello'. And smile because the other person can actually hear it in your voice. If the call is for someone else, like your mum, don't shout, 'Mum, it's for you'. Go and find her and tell her she has a call.
Making a call
Whether you want to make a date or apply for a job, you should know why you're calling before dialling the number. Jot down a few notes first so you don't get tongue-tied in the middle of the call. When someone answers, identify yourself and ask if it's convenient for them to talk ('Hi, Jane. It's John. Do you have time to talk?'). Then explain why you're calling ('I'm calling to see if you're free tonight'). Be sure to speak slowly and clearly.
Taking a message