Have you ever rung a business and wondered if you had gotten the right one? The handling of incoming calls is generally understood as an essential component in giving a good first impression.

Checking what you are doing well and what you could improve upon assists in maintaining a professional standard.

9 Tips

Here are 9 tips to assist you in your professional handling of incoming calls:

1. Answer the phone within three rings
2. Be welcoming – open with a verbal handshake and smile
3. State your company or department's name and your name
4. Use the caller's name as soon as possible
5. Listen to what the caller has to say
6. Ask questions to gather information and to check understanding
7. Use positive active language – tell them what you can do
8. Take accurate messages
9. Hang up last

Above all, demonstrate confidence, responsiveness and respect.

Your Efforts

Your efforts will go a long way in giving a good impression of you and your business. It will also help to build relationships with your clients and potential clients.