What Makes a Good Building Trust on Phone Calls

Building trust over the phone can be a challenging task, but it’s a crucial step in establishing a strong relationship with your customers, clients, or colleagues. A good phone call can make all the difference in fostering a sense of reliability, confidence, and loyalty. But what makes a good building trust on phone calls? In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that can help you establish trust over the phone.

1. Be Authentic and Transparent

When speaking on the phone, it’s essential to be genuine and honest. Use your real name, industry, and company name. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might confuse the other person. Be clear about your intentions, goals, and expectations. Transparency breeds trust, so be open about any potential biases or conflicts of interest.

2. Show Empathy and Active Listening

Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and show genuine interest in their concerns. Practice active listening by paying attention to what they say, asking clarifying questions, and acknowledging their emotions. This demonstrates that you value their time and opinions, which helps build trust.

3. Be Prepared and Informed

Before making the call, gather as much information as possible about the person you’re calling. Review their background, history, and previous interactions (if any). This shows that you’re invested in their problem or issue and willing to put in the effort to understand their perspective.

4. Use Positive Body Language (Even Over the Phone)

While you can’t physically see the other person, you can still convey positive body language over the phone. Use enthusiastic and engaging tone, pace, and inflections. Avoid filler words (um, like, you know) and speak clearly. This helps create a sense of energy and warmth.

5. Be Timely and Reliable

Return calls promptly and keep appointments scheduled. Show up on time, even if it’s just a phone call. This demonstrates that you value the other person’s time and are reliable.

6. Be Accountable and Follow Through

Commit to specific actions and follow through on your promises. Be transparent about potential delays or setbacks and communicate potential solutions. This shows that you’re responsible and considerate of the other person’s experience.

7. Use Positive Language and Tone

Use positive language and tone to convey confidence, optimism, and enthusiasm. Avoid negative or critical language, which can come across as harsh or confrontational. Focus on solutions rather than problems.

8. Show Appreciation and Gratitude

Express appreciation for the other person’s time, feedback, or support. Show gratitude for their trust and consideration. This creates a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

9. Demonstrate Expertise and Authority

Share relevant credentials, certifications, or experience that demonstrate your expertise in a particular area. This helps establish credibility and trust, especially in situations where the stakes are high.

10. Be Patient and Calm

Take a deep breath and approach the call with a calm and patient demeanor. Avoid getting defensive or emotional, even if the conversation gets heated or confrontational. Stay focused on finding a solution and showing empathy.

By incorporating these tips into your phone calls, you can build trust with your customers, clients, or colleagues. Remember that trust is a two-way street, and it takes time and effort to establish. By being authentic, transparent, and reliable, you can foster a sense of trust that can lead to stronger relationships and increased success.