Overcoming Phone Phobia: Tips for Improving Your Phone Time and Bookings

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores participants' experiences and challenges related to making phone calls for bookings as Pampered Chef consultants. Many share their struggles with phone phobia and the difficulties in getting leads to respond, while others offer personal insights on improving phone interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration over low response rates despite significant phone time, questioning whether the issue lies with the timing or the leads.
  • Another participant mentions that caller ID can be both beneficial and detrimental, affecting whether people answer calls.
  • One user shares that busy schedules, such as sports commitments, may impact people's availability for calls, suggesting alternative outreach methods like email and postcards.
  • A participant recounts their experience with personalizing calls by referencing previous purchases to engage leads more effectively.
  • Another consultant describes a similar struggle with getting callbacks from interested leads, feeling discouraged despite ongoing efforts.
  • One user suggests that using a cell phone may improve contact rates, based on a recent group activity where consultants had better success with personal devices.
  • A former telemarketer shares several tips for effective calling, including timing calls appropriately and maintaining a positive tone during conversations.
  • One participant encourages focusing on the positive aspect of securing at least one booking, sharing a personal success story that stemmed from a single booking.
  • Another user notes that calling early in the morning may yield better results, as people are more likely to be home.
  • A participant shares a systematic approach to follow up with leads over time, emphasizing persistence in securing bookings.
  • One user suggests phrasing questions in a way that makes it harder for leads to decline, based on a technique learned at a conference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various calling strategies and the impact of timing on response rates. While some participants share similar frustrations, there is no clear consensus on the best approach to overcome phone phobia and improve booking rates.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies related to phone outreach within the context of their roles as Pampered Chef consultants, reflecting a range of challenges and successes.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for shared experiences and insights on overcoming phone-related challenges in their booking efforts may find this discussion relevant.

LBurke
LBurke
Messages
243
What is up with people not answering the phone or returning phone calls? My goal for the year was to up the phone time to get over my phone phobia. I've spent 3 hours on the phone with leads from recent expos and old shows this week and got ONE booking! ARGH!
Anyone having tips on figuring this out? Is it the night I'm calling? Is it just my leads? Is it me? My director set me a goal of booking three shows this week and I feel like I've failed miserably cause I've only gotten one booking.

On the brighter side, I'm definitely getting over the phone phobia!!!
 
Caller IDA blessing and a curse! LOL

Debbie :D
 
Laurie,
People are busy, don't take it personally. T~ball, baseball & softball have already started in our area. That is one reason I reach out to them by email & postcards
 
I've given this advice before from listening to training tapes.

When you call people make it personal. Tell them you were thinking about them. Mention the stone they purchased how you were using yours that night and wanted to know how they were enjoying theirs. Then tell them about how the PC has the best monthly host specials you have ever seen since you started selling, can you tell her about them. Sell it like you are doing them a favor. It's all about them.

Others have tried the, "My director gave me a goal of 3 bookings tonight, can you help me?"

I personally like doing the "It's all about them route."

Good Luck!
 
I have been having the exact same problem! I have seven women express an intrest in booking shows and I can get all but one of them to call me back. And three are friends. Two of them have been shifting dates since December! I have nothing at this point for March and one fo April. I was also working on my phone phobia but am really discouraged. I'm hoping a couple of the calls I made tonight finally call me back.
Jessica
 
Try using your cell phone. We did a "Cook and Book" with consultants in our cluster a few weeks ago where they actually called many booking leads. Most people got in touch with people because everyone had to use their cell phones. At least I think that's what it was. The director whose house this "Cook and Book" was at used her actual office land line phone and got in touch with nobody! Hmmmmmm, gotta make you wonder.
 
Here are the things I had found out when I was a telemarketer.:angel:

1. don't call during lunch or dinner time.

2.when you do get to talk to the person be polite and smile! Believe it or not they can hear a smile in your voice.:p

3.Ask them if they have time to chat if they don't ask them if you can call them back, get them to tell you when they like for you to call.

4.If they are not home much ask them if they like to have the free recipe of the month club. I have gotten more orders by the recipe of the month.

5. A lot of the women I have talked to like the no pressure sales, and they love to chat with you when their husband is not home. I have found a lot of hubby's don't think women need to buy more stuff these can be the ones that are hanging up on you.
:p
Just keep up with it you will get some more bookings.Just be genuine in what you say and above all else remember everyone has a bad day once in a while don't let it get to you.:p
 
First, YOU GOT A BOOKING! Way to go! I say, just look at the bright side - you made your calls and got a booking. That booking can turn into 2 more shows, which can turn into 4 more shows, and so on. I worked a fair 4 years ago and "only" got one booking that day - I was so bummed. But, that one booking has resulted in about 30 shows that originated with that one host, and they still keep booking with me! So, don't look down on that "one" booking - feel proud of yourself. And, you should just be proud you got on the phone and made some calls if that's your challenge. I used to do the "100 No's" list - I'd call or talk to enough people in a week/2 weeks to try to get 100 No's (booking, recruiting, sales, whatever), so when someone actually said "Yes", it was like "WOW", since I was already prepared to be disappointed. Make sense?? Hang in there - it'll get easier!! I promise!
 
Not only did you get 1 booking, but there is still tomorrow. I have found if I call between 9 am and 10 am I get more people home. Wait until 10 and everyone's out and about already.
 
I have gone through that too. Calling and leaving messages.

Two weeks ago I booked 4 shows in one day. I have a binder with tabs for each month and lined notebook paper in between.

Once I have left a message for someone that month, I move them to the next month. If they say maybe in the summer, I move them to May for their next call etc.

I heard once that sometimes it takes 12-13 times of being asked a questions to say yes. So if you ask them 11 times and give up, the next consultant comes along and asks 1 time and gets the booking.

Don't take them off your list if they have said yes or maybe until they tell you no.
 
I agree with everyone and great job on the 1 booking.

Also, don't ask if this is a "good" time to chat, ask if it's an "ok" time to chat. It is harder to say know to ok, because it is probably not a good time, but it may be an ok time. I learned this at conference in one of the classes I took. It they still indicate they cannot talk now - get a day and time to call back so you are calling when they previously told you would be a good time.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is phone phobia and how does it affect direct sales?

Phone phobia is the fear or anxiety associated with making phone calls, which can significantly impact your ability to connect with potential customers and book parties. In direct sales, this can lead to missed opportunities and hinder your overall success. Overcoming this fear is crucial for building relationships and growing your business.

What are some effective tips for overcoming phone phobia?

To overcome phone phobia, start by practicing your script or talking points before making calls. Role-playing with a friend or colleague can also help build confidence. Additionally, set small, achievable goals for your phone time, such as making just one call a day, and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.

How can I improve my phone skills for better bookings?

Improving your phone skills involves active listening, being personable, and asking open-ended questions. Practice your tone and pacing to sound friendly and approachable. Additionally, familiarize yourself with common objections and prepare responses to address them effectively, which can help you feel more confident during calls.

What mindset shifts can help reduce anxiety around phone calls?

Shifting your mindset from viewing phone calls as a chore to seeing them as opportunities for connection can help reduce anxiety. Remind yourself that most people appreciate a personal touch and are often happy to hear from you. Focusing on the value you provide can also help alleviate pressure and make calls feel less daunting.

How can I track my progress in overcoming phone phobia?

Tracking your progress can be done by keeping a call log where you note the number of calls made, the outcomes, and any feedback received. Reflecting on your experiences regularly can help you identify areas for improvement and celebrate your successes, no matter how small, which reinforces positive behavior and builds confidence over time.

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