Rami Beracha: Essential Skills for Thriving Through Tough Calls

Rami Beracha believes that mastering difficult conversations separates average performers from outstanding ones. Nobody looks forward to uncomfortable phone calls, yet they remain an unavoidable part of professional life The ability to navigate these challenges with skill and grace opens doors to new opportunities When you excel at thriving through tough calls, you become an asset your organization cannot afford to lose.

Think about the last time you had to make a call you dreaded Maybe your stomach felt tight Your mind probably raced through worst-case scenarios These reactions are human and completely normal. The difference between those who succeed and those who struggle lies not in avoiding fear but in moving forward despite it Courage means taking action even when you feel uncomfortable

Creating a supportive environment helps you perform better during challenging calls Clear your desk of distractions before you begin, and close unnecessary tabs on your computer. Put your phone on silent mode. These small actions help you stay present and focused. When your space is organized, your mind can work more effectively You give yourself the best chance to handle whatever comes your way.

Scripts can be helpful tools when making tough calls Write down key phrases you need during the conversation. Include ways to acknowledge concerns and offer solutions. However, do not read directly from a script Use it as a guide to keep you on track Let the conversation flow naturally while hitting your essential points. Flexibility matters more than perfection.

Empathy transforms difficult calls into productive conversations. Put yourself in the other person's shoes Consider what they might be feeling or experiencing When you show genuine understanding, people respond more positively. They feel respected even when they disagree with you. This emotional connection creates space for problem-solving. Without empathy, tough calls become battles instead of discussions

Silence is a powerful tool that many people underuse After you make an essential point, pause and let it sink in Give the other person time to process what you said These quiet moments feel awkward at first, but they serve a purpose. Silence invites the other person to speak and share their thoughts It shows you are not trying to dominate the conversation Comfortable pauses demonstrate confidence and control

Document important calls soon after they end. Write down what was discussed and agreed upon Note any action items or deadlines This record protects you if questions arise later It also helps you track patterns in difficult conversations You may notice specific issues recurring frequently. These insights can help you address problems before they necessitate difficult decisions

Practice makes progress in all aspects of thriving through tough calls Role-play with a trusted colleague before essential conversations. Ask for feedback on your approach. Record yourself speaking to hear how you sound These exercises may seem silly, but they develop fundamental skills. The more you practice, the more natural these conversations become. What once terrified you eventually feels manageable and even routine