You can definitely record it, but get permission first.

I made a change in the intro paragraphs to the post to make it clearer I’m not talking about cold calling potential clients. This post focuses on a call that’s been previously scheduled. That said, much of this also applies to cold calls.

I find that most calls improve the likelihood I’ll get work, but there is also the possibility of the opposite — that’s why many people prefer to do everything by email when possible.

I don’t do phone calls unless I can’t get to them any other way. Even then, I weigh whether or not I want to go there. I just hate cold calls. I know if I tried it more often I’d be better at it than I think I am, but I just don’t. This year’s goal is to cold call. 🙂

I don’t do Skype but use Google Hangouts for one client’s conference calls. I have to remember to engage visually, smile a ton, look like I’m taking notes (when I’m actually recording, too), and stop sniffing, scratching, fidgeting…

It’s why I love email. 😉

Cathy, thanks for pointing out the importance of checking the client website. It was in my outline for the post, but I forgot to include it. (Adding it now…)

I also have a standard questionnaire (Word doc) that I tailor to each potential client.

LinkedIn is a great resource but I also review their website. I know it will vary based on your target market but 99.9% of my prospects have a website. You can also check out press releases for company info.

I haven’t used Skype yet and admit I’ve heard some of the same horror stories. I’ve never been asked to use it but would if asked.

Maybe it’s because of my corporate past but I don’t have the problem using the phone that some freelancers appear to have. I prefer it for those nuances Jake mentioned. Jake, you keep stealing my line. 😀

I also have a standard questionnaire I use. It depends what went on before the call as to whether or not I send it before the call or use it as a guide during the call.

Thanks for sharing your tips, Sue-Ann. If it’s a cold call, I think it’s especially important to ask if they have time to talk, and I’d mention a specific length, like two minutes.

I don’t dread talking to clients on the phone, but I do agree that preparation makes the interaction more meaningful and useful. I also do what Jake says above and ask if they have time to talk now. Sometimes I will even email to set a talk time ahead—a combination of what you wrote and Jake said—and also as a way to respect each other’s time. I find your spin on checking out a person’s background to be an interesting rapport builder. I always research the company, product, website, but only touch on key players (or who I may be dealing with) probably via the about page or “who we are” which doesn’t usually touch on much, on a personal level. Nice idea:) I always take notes or type notes on calls but have never tried a phone headset…hmmm. Thanks for the nice phone rapping wrap up! Lol Sue-Ann

That’s an excellent suggestion, Jake!