How to get rid of phone anxiety!

Whether you’re worrying about what your voice sounds like or are scared that you’ll say something wrong, phone anxiety is related to fear. But don’t worry too much: like any other fear, it’s possible to get over your phone anxiety. With these tips you’ll pick up that phone confidently on the first ring! 

What is phone anxiety exactly?

Phone anxiety, or as it’s officially called, telephonophobia, is the fear that creeps in when you are faced with a phone conversation. Most people who have phone anxiety prefer text messages. Why, you ask? Well, it all comes down to that empowering sense of control. When you’re texting, you’re in charge. You get to craft your messages, edit them until they’re just right, or even hit the delete button if you change your mind. 

I used to avoid calls, because they would make me feel anxious. But then I realized - dodging them was just feeding my fear, making it bigger. So, I decided to change my approach. The only way I could get comfortable with calling was to do it more often!” (our colleague Ramon).

How to overcome phone anxiety?

1. Create a guide ✍️

Consider writing down your goals for the call, any specific questions you have, and important points you want to address. This way, when anxiety kicks in, you'll have a written note to keep you on track. Preparation and a plan can help get rid of the initial fear of making the calls and make the experience more manageable for you. Remember: it's okay not to have all the answers right away. If you feel overwhelmed during the call, you can always politely inform the other person that you'll call them back once you've gathered the necessary information. Take it easy!

2. Pick up that phone! 📱

We know this might seem easier said than done, but trust us, this is where your journey begins. You see, conquering fear requires you to take that initial leap of faith. It’s a bit like learning to swim - you can’t master it without getting wet. So, the more you reach out and grab that ringing phone, the more you’ll find a growing sense of ease.. Start by having short, easy conversations with a friend or family member. With each casual chat, you’re taking one step closer to making that phone your best friend! 

3. Accept the mistakes 🤝

No need to dwell on the downside, but let's face it: at some point, you might stumble on a call or two. It's all part of the game, and the sooner you make peace with that, the better. The key is not to be too hard on yourself when it happens. Trust us, even the most confident callers have an “off day”. We all get tongue-tied, we might stumble over our words, forget a detail, or even encounter rejection. Don’t let it affect your mood: channel your energy into what you can improve and do better next time! 

4. Reward yourself 🎉

Getting through those conversations is a big deal! Go ahead, pat yourself on the back - you’ve earned it! You are allowed to take pride in your progress and celebrate those small victories. After all, navigating these conversations can be quite draining. They demand your energy and focus, So, don’t hesitate to treat yourself kindly and treat yourself!

From phone call to new job

Preparing for a first phone call during a job interview can go a long way! Start by researching the company and role, and align your qualifications with their needs. Prepare talking points and practice your responses, but make it sound natural, they want you to be yourself! Practice the interview with a friend to ease your nerves and ask them for feedback. To ease your stress, find a quiet, comfortable space with good WiFi, and keep your CV, motivation letter, and notes close by. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer, and practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques to manage your anxiety.

Dress the way you feel comfortable to boost your confidence and maintain a positive and confident attitude throughout the call. Actively listen to the interviewer, ask for clarification when needed, and send a thank-you email afterward to express your gratitude and interest. Remember: even rejections are opportunities for growth! 

Calling in another language

You might not feel totally comfortable talking in another language on the phone. Get into the language by watching movies, listening to music, or even joining a language group to practice with a tutor. During the call, remember to speak slowly and clearly, emphasizing your confidence. If you ever feel stuck, don't hesitate to ask the interviewer to rephrase or repeat a question. Research a few key industry-specific terms beforehand, and most importantly, embrace your language skills as a unique asset. Go ahead and shine in that interview – language won't be a barrier, but a bridge to success!

Phone anxiety is a common hurdle. With practice, self-compassion, and a willingness to embrace the unknown, you can approach phone calls with newfound confidence. Remember, each call you answer is a step towards conquering your fear and becoming a more confident communicator. So, don't let the ringtone strike fear into your heart - pick up that phone and face it head-on. You've got this! 📱🌟

Do you have more phone anxiety tips? Share them in the comments!