Business calls are a critical part of communication in the corporate world. Whether discussing the finer details of a project with a colleague or pitching to a new client, a successful business call can make a significant difference. But despite knowing their importance, people often make mistakes on these calls that jeopardize the outcome of their conversation. These mistakes hinder the effectiveness of the call and sometimes even cause miscommunication among the team.

Starting without preparation
A rookie mistake to avoid when joining a business call is hopping in unprepared. Ensure you have all the necessary information before you make that call. Preparation will not only ensure the discussion is a success but also make the listener realize that you value their time and effort and are serious about the task.

Being verbose
Being the talker on the call isn’t the only role you have to fulfill. You must strike a balance between speaking and listening. If you keep on talking throughout, you might come across as overly self-involved and disinterested in what the others have to say. It’s a mistake to avoid at all costs for the business call to be a success. Actively listen to what others say and take notes where needed.

Using industry jargon
You might consider the use of industry jargon a sign of intelligence and expertise. But the same isn’t necessarily true about the people you’re on a call with. If the person you’re speaking to is unfamiliar with the terms, it can make them uncomfortable and confused in the middle of an important conversation. Instead of indulging in industrial terminology, stick to simpler language and explain technical terms that cannot be avoided.

Not addressing other participants by name
Addressing people without using their names can make a conversation impersonal. On the other hand, starting the call by addressing others by their names can help establish a personal connection and prevent awkwardness later during the call. It can also keep the conversation engaging, helping you participate in a successful business call.

Not being mindful of the time
Keep an eye on the clock when on a business call. Some people don’t realize the limited time others might have dedicated to the conversation. Stick to topics that are relevant to the project and, more importantly, of consequence in the current timeline. For a business call to be successful, it’s essential to keep it brief and avoid rambling or going off-topic.

Interrupting others
Interrupting someone when they’re talking is considered rude. Doing so on a business call can make people think you’re disrespectful. So, wait till the other person completes their part. Then share your thoughts and ideas and clear your doubts, if any.

Not following up
Following up after the call is essential to maintain the business relationship and keep the conversation moving. You can send a follow-up email or schedule another call to review the conversation and discuss further steps. If you fail to follow up with the other participants, they might feel undervalued or ignored.