Friday, January 26, 2007

Telephone Techniques in the Workplace

When Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone, never did he dream that his invention would create an unprecedented historical impact on how we communicate with one another. The telephone has become so much a part of our lives that it would seem incomprehensible to live without one! Most of our communication, whether personal or business, is initiated and conducted via the telephone. Whilst technology has since advanced greatly to allow us to send SMS or e-mails through various innovative gadgets, we can never downplay the importance of our telephone, whether PABX system, cordless or not.
One day, someone came to see of my bosses. As he was walking in, he was screaming into his handphone. It was awfully loud and disruptive to our concentration. Have you ever wondered how the person on the other end of the line would perceive you as a caller? Or you may have a bad day. As soon as you step into the office, you find your phone ringing incessantly and you pick it up and bark: “Hello, what do you want?” I would think that a bad impression would have already been formed in the mind of the caller, even though he may be your friend. In the workplace, this can translate to bad image for your company as a whole.
First impression plays a major role in determining whether you want to further the acquaintanceship or steer clear from that person. Likewise, in a telephone conversation, the first few words you utter will determine the ‘tone’ of the conversation. If you sounded cheerful, the caller would be equally receptive to talk and you may even find yourself an invaluable friend or client. It is critical that every time you pick up a call, you make a good impression. Good telephone etiquette is an asset, irrespective whether you are a receptionist or the CEO of a company.

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