[header] How to start a phone conversation [title] Know what you want out of the call. [step] Before you even pick up the phone, it's important to identify what you want your phone call to accomplish. For example, if you're calling up someone who you're interested in romantically, the goal may be to ask them to go out on a date. 
During a business call, the point may be to sell your merchandise or services. Ask yourself what you hope will come out of the conversation.