Learn to believe in yourself. Be zealous.

Good prospects in business, prospective customers, clients, guest:

a. Zealous Guest - She/He might be one with most friends

b. Friends of host/hostess - She/He might be willing to help you

Booking starts with you and your attitude. Watch your image and attitude. Let people know about events and shows.

Others will want to associate with you. You could possibly know something in a particular area/subject that others want to learn about.

2) Your Attitude-Smile during conversation. It’s true that they can’t see you but smiling will make your voice sound positive, upbeat, and friendly. You also need to be confident. Your confidence will show them that you truly stand by your product or business. They must believe that they really need you. Remember “NO” might really mean “I still need to be convinced.”

3) Manners-It’s really easy to get caught up in a conversation and start talking like you do with your friends. Remember this is a professional call. Avoid repeated phrases or nervous laughs. Don’t chew gum or eat while on phone. Also, keep your mouth a few inches from phone so you aren’t too loud or muffled. Most of all, watch your language. Nothing will end your conversation faster than letting one of those naughty 4-letter words slip out.

4) Surroundings-It is best to be in a quiet and comfortable place away from distractions. If you are interrupted you may forget what you were saying causing you to sound very unprofessional.

5) Information-It is a very good idea to have everything you may need readily available. Have all information organized and accessible within seconds. At very least you should have your website open, compensation plan in front of you, and a list of answers to frequently asked questions handy. Another very important tool to have is a script. With a script you have your lines in front of you ready to go. However, it’s best not to totally rely on a script. I say this because conversation can stray from it very easily.

Well, there you go! Now you have some basic techniques to help you squash your fear of phones and become more professional. I doubt you will be able to do it in one day but with some practice, repetition, and persistence you will sound like a veteran in no time. Trust me if you face your fear now it will pay off big later!