Use LinkedIn, the company website, and other social media for this research. Identify things about the company that appeal to you before you call in case you’re asked why you’re interested in working for them.

Introduce yourself. Use your full name. For example: “Good morning, Ms. Smith. My name is John Doe. ” Discuss your accomplishments if they’re pertinent to your inquiry. For example: “I am an experienced web designer and IT specialist with ten years experience, looking for new challenges. ” Say why you’re calling. For example: “I would appreciate a minute of your time to ask about vacancies in your IT department. ”

Also think of questions you think you might be asked and prepare your answers for those questions. For example, you may be asked why you’re applying with them, where you heard about the company, when you’d be available to interview or start work, and what salary range you’re looking for.

Practice speaking clearly. Also practice smiling when you speak. This will help you sound more confident. Record yourself and listen to how you sound. Fix anything you don’t like about how you sound, like saying “um” a lot or speaking too quickly or in a monotone.

Don’t put the hiring manager on hold if another call does come through. Aside from your water, don’t eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum during the call.

Having your resume handy will also help you answer questions more fluently if you’re nervous during the call.

Put this information in your spreadsheet. At the end of the call, review what you said you would do and confirm the person’s contact information from your notes. For example, before saying thank you, say: “As promised, I’ll follow up with my resume and list of references in the next two business days. ”

Prepare for the call by figuring out your availability for the two weeks following the call. Don’t change appointments once you’ve made them unless you have a legitimate emergency.

Preface your phone call by asking if the person has a few minutes to speak with you. If not, offer to call back later and ask the best time to do so.