Overcoming Phone Fear: Tips to Make Calls Less Intimidating

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various personal experiences and strategies for overcoming fear of making phone calls, particularly in the context of booking shows and customer care as Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their feelings about phone anxiety and offer insights into how they cope with it.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong dislike for making phone calls and seeks suggestions to alleviate the intimidation associated with it.
  • Another participant shares their experience of overcoming phone fear by relating it to their past as a server, emphasizing that rejection is part of the process.
  • Several users mention that practice makes phone calls easier over time, with one participant noting that Pampered Chef offers a higher likelihood of receiving positive responses compared to other direct sales companies.
  • One participant identifies a personal motivator, using rewards like Hershey kisses or monetary incentives to encourage making calls.
  • Another participant highlights the importance of viewing "no" as a potential for future opportunities and suggests asking if it's a good time to talk.
  • Some participants agree that the fear of phone calls is common and that it can be easier to handle over the phone than in person.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that phone fear is a common experience and that practice can help alleviate it. However, individual coping strategies and motivations vary widely, indicating no clear consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal anecdotes and strategies, reflecting a range of experiences with phone calls in their business practices. The discussion is rooted in the context of direct sales and the unique challenges faced by consultants.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for Pampered Chef consultants who experience anxiety about making phone calls and are looking for relatable experiences and potential coping strategies from their peers.

loreedfk
Messages
151
What is your best tip for overcoming phone fear - I really need to get on the phone, make some customer care calls and get some shows booked, but I so so hate the phone. So any suggestions to make it seem less painful, less intimidating, whatever would be greatly appreciated!!!!
 
Don't worry about the NO's! This has really gotten me down.:eek:

I still don't like to do it, but my bussiness has improved so much by using the phone I force myself to make the calls! I think I also related to the analogy of the waitress. Does the waitress get upset everytime a customer says no to dessert. "NO"
I used to be a server, so this is how I think of it when I make phone calls.

I promise it does get easier w/ time you just have to practice, the phone is are biggest friend in this biz!:D
 
I think we all have a fear of the phone in the beginning. I promise you, the more you do it, the easier it gets. That is one great thing about Pampered Chef. It's easier to get a yes than any other direct sales company. Believe me, I've tried a few others.

To get over my fear I had to just tell myself, either pick up the phone and get busy, or just forget this whole thing and go out and get a job :eek: That was enough to motivate me!
 
jenniferlynne said:
I think we all have a fear of the phone in the beginning. I promise you, the more you do it, the easier it gets. That is one great thing about Pampered Chef. It's easier to get a yes than any other direct sales company. Believe me, I've tried a few others.

To get over my fear I had to just tell myself, either pick up the phone and get busy, or just forget this whole thing and go out and get a job :eek: That was enough to motivate me!

Good point! Plus I have read somewhere on here that NO just means: Next Oppoortunity so move on to it!!!!

Have yet to practice this (still have the phone fear) but it's a good tip none the less!
 
My tip is PAY YOURSELF to make calls.

Find a good motivator for yourself (mine is Hershey kisses). For every call I make, I give myself a hershey kiss.

Or sometimes I will give myself 50c a call...with a pedicure as my goal ($25)...if I make 50 calls, I have earned a pedicure...find what motivcates you and use it!!
 
Practice, Practice, Practice....that's my advice but, I really like Carolyn's idea above!!
 
Great idea Carolyn! I always get myself to call someone because I would much rather hear a no over the phone than in person. I also have a fear of the phone, but it is easier to play it off over the phone!
 
I have a fear of the phone too. The advice here is wonderful.
 
Just remember that No isn't no to you. It could just mean not now. I always ask it its a good time.

My biggest fear isn't the call, its the possibility that they will do business with someone else. I read that in "Build It Big" and it really hit home.
 
I have a fear of the phone too, which is funny because at my other job I talk to complete strangers on the phone and in person. I love the idea of giving yourself something in making phone calls. I have noticed that it does get easier the more you do it and what they say is true practice makes perfect.
 
Like the saying says: JUST DO IT:D Just put a smile on your face, have excitement in your voice, & if they do say no-ask if you can call back in a couple of months to share the specials going on then.
Also, my director gave us a mini-$100 bill (fake!) awhile back & told us to tape it onto our phone. Since the average consultant makes $100 per show, just imaging every time you pick up the phone you could be making $100 if they do say yes!:D
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is phone fear and why do people experience it?

Phone fear, also known as telephobia, is the anxiety or apprehension some individuals feel when making or receiving phone calls. This fear can stem from various factors, including fear of rejection, lack of confidence in communication skills, or previous negative experiences during phone conversations. Many people worry about how they will be perceived or fear that they won't know what to say.

How can I prepare for a phone call to reduce anxiety?

Preparation is key to overcoming phone fear. Start by writing down a script or key points you want to cover during the call. Practice your introduction and any questions you plan to ask. Familiarize yourself with the product or service you are discussing, so you feel more confident. Additionally, consider rehearsing with a friend or family member to build your comfort level before making the actual call.

What techniques can I use to calm my nerves before making a call?

There are several techniques you can use to calm your nerves before making a call. Deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety; take a few slow, deep breaths to center yourself. Visualizing a positive outcome can also be beneficial—imagine the conversation going well and the other person responding positively. Lastly, remind yourself that it’s just a conversation, and the person on the other end is likely to be understanding.

How can I handle rejection or negative responses during a call?

Handling rejection is a crucial part of overcoming phone fear. Remember that not every call will result in a positive outcome, and that’s okay. If you receive a negative response, take a moment to breathe and remind yourself that it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities. You can also prepare for potential objections by thinking of responses in advance, which can help you feel more equipped to handle them gracefully.

What are some tips for making phone calls feel more natural?

To make phone calls feel more natural, try to approach them as casual conversations rather than formal business discussions. Use a friendly tone and speak as if you are talking to a friend. Additionally, actively listen to the other person and engage with their responses, which can help create a more relaxed atmosphere. Lastly, practice regularly; the more you make calls, the more comfortable and natural they will become.

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