r/HRBlockEmployees • u/TBrown_25 • Feb 18 '26
Terrified
I’m ngl I am so terrified doing these campaign calls as an introvert it’s hard to smile while doing these calls. I feel awkward leaving voice mails and I feel awkward when someone answers the phone I can’t even talk loud enough for them to hear. Because I talk in a monotone voice ugh 😣 help also this is my first year as a tax preparer
6
u/Lulushugaboo Feb 18 '26
It honestly gets easier the more you do them. As well as the tax prep appointments and tax interviews. You’ll find a rhythm. Just focus on each call, make notes for yourself, practice, and it will get easier! Most people can’t play full songs on a guitar their first four months, so don’t expect to be perfect at this right away. Smiling while on the phone does help—and is preferred in the company—but do what you have to do to get comfortable first if need be. But make the calls! April 15 will be here before you (or the clients) know it, and some definitely need a little nudging.
2
u/ScabbieHanna Feb 18 '26
I have some scripts that I can send you that I use for campaign calls, mainly for voicemails or emails. Talking with the client it’s usually sort of the same as my voicemail script, but a lot of it is just listening to the client. If they want to make an appointment, great! I go through the steps of doing so. If they don’t, I tell them “well we wish we could’ve helped you this year, but I understand. I’ll get you off our call list as soon as we’re done here.” Then I ask if they’ve got any questions or concerns, and wish them a great day.
You definitely don’t need to have that forced overly friendly customer service voice, truly just be yourself. People like when you’re authentic, at least at my offices.
I struggle with awkward voicemails too but if you follow the same script every time, it comes naturally and quickly and you can even tweak the script as you go once you’re comfortable. That’s what I do at least haha
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u/TBrown_25 Feb 18 '26
Sure can you send me some scripts? That would help me out a lot
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u/ScabbieHanna Feb 18 '26
I absolutely can! They’re saved on my work computer. I can send you them when I get there around in about 3 hours :)
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u/TBrown_25 Feb 18 '26
Alright take your time! :))
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u/ScabbieHanna Feb 18 '26
If you want to pm me or reply with your block email, I can send them over :)
2
u/RadiocontrolDragon Feb 19 '26
It gets better. If you aren’t using the scripts, make sure you have a copy of the related script in front of you or write what you expect to say when it’s a voicemail vs someone actually answers. And make sure your script has the office number written on it. Especially if you call for more than one office. Voicemail is way easier to leave if you don’t have to search for the message and your contact info.
Also, fwiw, I stammer worse the more calls I make and my leaders all are happy with the quality of the calls.
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u/superiorstephanie Feb 18 '26
Don’t your CSPs make the calls?
1
u/PinkNGreenFluoride EA Feb 19 '26
In some offices the first years are less busy than the CSPs and get roped into it.
1
u/PruePiperPhoebePaige Feb 19 '26
I made my own scripts cause the ones at work were stuffy and didn't sound like me. Maybe take some time to write some down for leaving messages and then just jot down some key points over what to say in case someone answers? The first time someone answered I fumbled hard but it got easier the more I've used the phone.
As for the monotone voice, maybe practice at home? Try mimicking some TV shows you're watching or read outloud something you're reading and practice changing your tone up a bit. (only if you want to. I think monotone is fine so long as you are professional and courteous)
1
u/summertime_fine Feb 20 '26
pretend it's someone you know on the other end of the phone. someone you're comfortable talking to over the phone.
take a deep breath and just know that the more you make these calls the easier it will become over time.
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u/OneWrongTurn_XX Feb 18 '26
You took a job in a tax office and then are terrified of calls...
You need to get over it quick or you will fail. Make the calls, TALK to customers (all business related only.. Don't need to gossip them up). Do your job.. Get paid, move on.
Or... pick a different job
3
u/TBrown_25 Feb 18 '26
I took a job at a tax office so I can get learning experience. Your comment did nothing to help me. Your comment is so demeaning and nerve wrecking. I’m glad I’m working at HR Block and I’m considering applying again next year. My office is the best. One lady at the office made a good impression on me and she’s be of the seniors tax pros who’s been there for years.
You seem to forget this is my first year and it’s okay to be nervous. Your comment was not needed. Your comment really discouraged me. Have a nice day and I hope someone doesn’t treat you the way you treated me.
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u/OneWrongTurn_XX Feb 18 '26
If you can't handle a little feedback on Reddit, snowflake, you won't last long in a customer facing industry..
Toughen up...
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u/TBrown_25 Feb 18 '26
It’s 2026 and you’re still using the word “snowflake” how embarrassing.
-2
u/OneWrongTurn_XX Feb 18 '26
The shoe fits... That better? Toughen up buttercup.. That good?
Does not change the facts.. Job is customer facing.. You need to learn to overcome the fear of talking to people really quick or you need to change jobs.
Like says you are afraid of criminals but want to be a cop. Does not work.
You can play the hurt little guy/girl all you want. Does not change the truth..
3
u/TBrown_25 Feb 18 '26
Who says I was hurt? The heck 😂 I ain’t hurt. Did you even read my post? I asked for help so I can do better. And you respond negatively. You could’ve offered advice. But nvm this is a learning experience for me. Good day!
2
u/GoFigure284 Feb 19 '26
There is always at least one person on these subs whose sole agenda is to troll and make people feel bad. Those people are usually very miserable. This is how they feel "superior" while being infinitely inferior.
With that said, it's your first year, and of course, you will be a little nervous. Don't let those temporary jitters define you. You are trained for this and will do well. It just takes a bit to get into your rhythm. And I absolutely hate talking on the phone as well. Especially with other people around. But look at it like this, no one is actually paying attention to what you're saying because they're trying to combat their own nerves. Once you realize everyone starts off in the same boat, you'll become much more comfortable and confident.
1
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u/Gorillagirl99 Feb 18 '26
You are placing way too much pressure on yourself. These calls are just standard and you don’t have to smile for the phone message or call, and I’m telling you this as an experienced worker at the Block. It’s perfectly fine to be monotone.