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When you're talking to a prospect over the phone it's extremely important that you speak to them with confidence. Just because you're on the phone and not in person doesn't mean people can't tell when you're unsure of yourself.

Here are 5 ways to convey more confidence over the phone.

#1 Sit up straight

Believe it or not how you sit can effect how you sound on the phone. When you sit up straight in your chair just as you would if you were speaking to someone in person you will sound more confident and sure of yourself.

#2 Smile

This is a big one! If you don't believe me try talking to a friend in another room. Once while smiling and once without. I guarantee you your friend will be able to tell you which is which. You might feel just a little silly but believe me it works!

#3 Avoid nervous laughter

This was a big one for me. Everyone can tell the difference between genuine laughter and nervous laughter... everyone. When you don't avoid nervous laughter you won't emit any kind of confidence and the person on the other end of the line will get the idea that you don't know what your talking about or you're not really sure about your business.

Do not ruin a perfectly good business call by laughing out of nerves. You might think it's nothing but it really can ruin your credibility over the phone.

#4 Keep eye contact with something

I know, I know it sounds really silly and pointless. I guess you'll just have to take my word for it. But keeping eye contact on a specific spot. Just like you would look someone in the eye in person can really help how you come off over the phone.

Find a spot on the wall or put up a poster if you need to, just maintain "eye" contact and you will sound much more professional and confident.

#5 Talk slowly and with a purpose

Talking quickly is one of the first signs someone is nervous. No I'm not saying you should... slow.... down... until... it... gets... annoying. Just don't start speaking faster than you normally would.

Choose your words carefully and speak with authority. Don't use words like "um" and "uh" if you don't know what to say take a beat and start when you're ready..

By following these simple tips you will convey a comfortable and confident business man or woman and you'll start to sound more like the type of person that everyone would want to be in business with.