Final answer:
Sales associates should communicate with phone customers clearly and concisely, employing strong communication skills and avoiding informal language. Stating expectations directly, understanding business needs, and choosing the proper medium for complex discussions ensure effective communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
A sales associate's communication with a phone customer is best projected by being clear, concise, and professional. Utilizing strong communication skills, the associate should listen attentively to the customer and respond with well thought out, articulate messages. It is crucial to be clear in what is communicated, avoiding informal text language and ensuring proper business communication standards are maintained. It is advisable to directly state what is expected from the listener to avoid misunderstandings.
Moreover, being present during important calls and meetings helps in understanding the business needs, ensuring a smooth office operation. Associates who are involved and listen in on calls are better prepared to execute the tasks needed of them, comprehending not only the 'what' but also the 'why' behind each request. For complex issues or when a message might become too verbose, considering a face-to-face conversation or a phone call can be more effective than prolonged email exchanges. Finally, practicing persistence while being pleasant can make follow-ups more effective without becoming a nuisance to the customer.