Tag: phone

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Phone Etiquette

Phone Etiquette

Phone etiquette may seem like a no brainer, but it never hurts to have a refresher. Check out these tips to know the do’s and don’ts of a good phone call.

Etiquette 101

I don’t know about you, but I view phone calls as the best way to get answers. Once you know how to do it right, phone calls are quicker than emails (of course it doesn’t hurt to follow up with an email) and not everything requires a Zoom sync.

When you receive a phone call, try your best to pick up by the first three rings and start by introducing yourself. While you’re speaking, remember to talk slowly and clearly. If you think you’re talking too slow, you’re probably speaking at just the right pace.

If you have to transfer the call, ask permission before you do so. Also, if you don’t know the answer to a question, be honest about and tell them how you plan on helping.

Be present

While you’re on the phone, make sure you’re not doing anything else and have no distractions. By distractions I mean close out of Facebook, and even pull up a Word document to make notes while you’re on the call. Only put yourself on speaker if it’s absolutely necessary. Otherwise try to connect a headset or headphones so you can remain hands free throughout the call.

Be sure to sound cheerful throughout the phone call. Try smiling if you’re not in the mood to be on the phone, people can notice the difference. A headset comes in handy here as well if standing up and pacing helps with the tone of your voice.

After the phone call, do your follow up tasks immediately. The longer you wait the more difficult it will be to get them done.

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Manage your phone habits

Manage your phone habits

Our cell phones have become a central part of our lives. They’re the first things we check in the morning, we never leave the house without them, and we can’t even sit on the toilet without scrolling through a timeline.

Even if using your phone less isn’t on your radar, check out these tips to see if 1) it should be and 2) how to get some time back in your day.

Turn off notifications

Do you pick up your phone every time you see you have a new notification? Not only is this incredibly disrupting to the task you’re working on at hand, but constantly checking social media can contribute to feeling like you’re always missing out (in other words, FOMO). You’d be surprised how turning off notifications can help you check social media less. After all, out of sight means out of mind.

Limit phone time

Most phones have a system setting that shows how much time you’re spending on your phone and on what apps. This setting will send you a notification every week so you can track your progress. It can even show you how often you pick up your phone, and for what notifications!

Another way to limit phone time is by switching your display settings. Studies have shown that changing your display from color to black and white really does take the enjoyment out of scrolling, which means less time spent mindlessly scrolling.

Time equals money

What would you do if you had an extra hour in your day? As it turns out, you don’t need magic to make this happen—with some determination (and lifestyle changes) you can add more meaningful time in your life.

If you’re looking for more information to guide you in owning a retail business, subscribe to American Quilt Retailer today. Already a subscriber? No worries—join our Facebook group for insights and dialogue from industry specialists like you.