How to stop being afraid of phoning people up
How I did it: I started by answering telephones. It's a small step, but it works. Answer telephones, take messages, whatever.. it all helps. As your confidence starts to build, start offering to phone up for that pizza, or call your boss, or whatever. Deep breaths and a 'stuff it' attitude.
Lessons & tips: Deep breaths, and calm thoughts, followed by a 'stuff it' mentality.
Also I found it helpful to know exactly what I want to say when someone at the other end picks up. Rehearse it in your head.. but not too much else you'll get more nervous. Just a quick run through of what you need to say.
Let the other person lead the conversation. This is especially useful if you need to phone a call centre/benefits office/find out where your parcel is etc.. Ask the question you want answering, and the person on the other end will more than likely ask you questions in return, which you should be able to reply to.
For official calls, have all relevant information to hand, as well as a notepad and pen. For example, phoning a cell phone service provider.. make sure you have the most recent bills and correspondance on the table in front of you, so you can read off your account number/details. without having to faff around to find them. Take notes of the conversation, especially important details such as other numbers to call/dates etc.. If you're still nervous on the phone, you won't remember these things without making note.
Make sure when you call you have a quiet house (or as quiet as possible).. the last thing you need is to have kids running around distracting you whilst you're trying to talk to someone.
