By Lynda Goldman

At least 75 percent of the business we conduct begins with a phone call. In some cases it’s the only contact you have with a person. We use phone calls to introduce ourselves, give and get information, set up appointments, and follow up on previous contacts.

The way you sound on the telephone, and your telephone etiquette, is often the first impression you make. It can influence whether you get the job interview, the new client or the meeting you want.

Here are 5 ways to make a great impression on the phone:

• Before you make an important call, take a few moments to prepare. You’ll increase your chances of getting what you want. Know the reason for your call, and prepare any questions or information you need. It helps to write notes on a paper, so you don’t get sidetracked during the conversation.

• Take notes. During the call, write down the relevant points you discussed. This shows your efficiency and attention to detail, and helps avoid repeat phone calls for the same information.

• Put energy into your voice. A good trick is to stand up when you talk. When you sit during a phone call, your diaphragm is compressed. When you stand up and move around, you breathe more freely. You have more energy, which will come across in your voice.

• Smile when you speak. The person you speak to won’t see the smile, but the warmth that comes from a smile will come across the phone line!

• If you are calling from home, make your calls away from distracting noises such as the washing machine or TV. And don’t eat, chew gum or drink during a business conversation. People can hear more than you think.

Do you know the biggest business image mistakes sales people make? Find out with these free reports:

7 Business Casual Crimes and How to Solve Them and 13 Foods that Can Sabotage a Business Meal, when you sign up for my Communication Capsules Ezine at: http://www.Impressforsuccess.com/signup.html

From Lynda Goldman, author of 30 books including How to Make a Million Dollar First Impression

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