Let’s face it: some days are harder than others! It can be difficult to maintain your usual polite demeanor when answering the phone, especially if you view the caller as a distraction from work. However, being happy and helpful to those who call your business is a valuable asset, one developed over time and with practice. Here are some positive habits you can put into place to hone your business phone skills.
Practice Your Opening Line
Your opening line is your first impression to a caller. If you want to get the call started on the right foot, not only should you be energized and happy, but you should also state the name of your business, your name, and a pleasant, ‘How may I assist you?’. Your opening line is your first chance to show the caller that they have come to the right place.
Clarity of Call
Be sure where you answer your incoming calls is in a quiet space and on a landline. This ensures that your client’s end of the conversation will be clear and without any background noise to cause distractions.
Smile While Speaking
Most people prefer a smiling, human voice on the other end of the phone as opposed to an automated system. How do you manage a cheery attitude day in and day out? While it is difficult some days, simply try to smile each time you pick up the phone. Trust me, the client will be able to hear the smile in your voice, and you might even be happier from smiling yourself.