Proxy Call Services: The Business of Making Phone Calls for You”

Dreading that phone call? Discover how proxy call services are turning your phone anxiety into a business opportunity.

Have you ever found yourself staring at your phone, dreading the thought of making that one call? Maybe it’s an apology you owe someone, but your pride or nerves won’t let you dial. Or perhaps you want to compliment a colleague but don’t know how to start without sounding awkward. And let’s not even get started on expressing affection over the phone—some of us would rather hike BAREFOOT to Olumo Rock barefoot than say, “I love you,” on a call.

It’s not just you. Many people find phone calls daunting. In fact, a good number of Nigerians are “text warriors” who come alive via WhatsApp or SMS but go mute when it’s time to speak out loud. The thing is, communication is still important, and phone calls, no matter how outdated they might seem to Gen Z, remain one of the most direct and effective ways to connect.

But here’s the kicker: there’s now a business for people who hate making calls. Yes, for a small fee, someone else can do the heavy lifting and say what you need to say on your behalf. Genius, abi?

Why Phone Anxiety Is Real

Before we delve into the business side of things, let’s quickly address why many of us shy away from making calls in the first place. In today’s world of instant messaging and emojis, phone calls are seen as invasive, intense, and even unnecessary. Nobody wants to interrupt someone’s day with an unexpected ringtone. And then there’s the issue of confidence.

Not everyone has the eloquence to express themselves over the phone. Anxiety kicks in: “What if I stumble over my words?” “What if I forget what I wanted to say?” “What if the person responds badly?” Nigerians are known for our ‘gra gra’ confidence, but deep down, even the most outspoken among us can freeze when it’s time to confront their emotions or deliver bad news.

In a society like ours, where respect and face-saving matter, it’s even more complicated. Saying the wrong thing—or saying it the wrong way—could lead to a family feud, lost friendships, or a major gbas gbos situation.

The Rise of Proxy Call Services

Now, let’s talk business. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a trend: individuals and even small startups offering “proxy call services.” The premise is simple—pay someone a token, and they’ll make a call on your behalf. Whether it’s to apologise, confess love, or even threaten a debtor (although we don’t endorse that!), these businesses cater to people who prefer outsourcing emotionally loaded or difficult calls.

It’s a relatively new concept, but it’s catching on, especially among millennials and Gen Z Nigerians. Imagine you had a misunderstanding with your partner, and you know you’re at fault but can’t bring yourself to apologise. For N1,500 or so, someone else can call, explain your feelings, and soften the blow.

Or let’s say you’re a shy guy who wants to shoot your shot with a babe. Instead of fumbling through a “Hi, how are you? I really like you…” speech, you can hire someone to lay the foundation for you. It’s brilliant—and yes, very Nigerian.

The Market Potential

Proxy call services tap into a growing market of people who value convenience over tradition. The business model is fairly straightforward and has low overhead costs. All you really need is:

1. A phone (obviously).
2. Great communication skills.
3. The ability to tailor messages to suit the client’s tone.
4. A bit of discretion (you don’t want to spill someone’s personal gist).

The potential market is huge. Think about it: Nigeria has over 200 million people, and almost everyone has a reason to make or receive calls daily. The tricky part is that many would rather text or hire someone to “help them talk.”

With effective marketing and branding, this type of service could go beyond individuals to target businesses. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) could use proxy callers for client follow-ups, payment reminders, or even “check-up calls” to maintain customer relationships. And with more Nigerians embracing side hustles, this business idea is perfect for someone looking to earn money on the side without heavy investment.

Making the Case for Cash

Let’s break it down further. Here’s why this is a viable money-making venture:

1. Low Investment, High ROI: The only major investment is your time and maybe a monthly data/airtime budget. In return, you could make anywhere from N1,000 to N10,000 per call, depending on the complexity of the task.
2. Scalability: Start small, then build a team. You can even specialise—some people handle apologies, others handle compliments or professional calls. Add a bit of tech, and you could automate bookings via a website or app.
3. Cultural Relevance: Nigerians are expressive people who value communication, but many also prefer to save face. A proxy service meets that need perfectly.
4. Seasonal Booms: During festive seasons or Valentine’s Day, the demand for such services could spike as people want to reconnect with loved ones or make romantic gestures.

The Challenges to Watch Out For

Of course, it’s not all rosy. This business idea comes with its challenges:

1. Privacy Issues: Clients are entrusting you with personal messages, and any breach of trust could harm your reputation.
2. Reputational Risk: What if your proxy caller doesn’t deliver the message as intended? It could backfire.
3. Pricing Confusion: Setting the right price is crucial. Charge too high, and you scare off customers. Charge too low, and you undervalue your time.
4. Regulatory Concerns: While the service might seem harmless, it’s essential to avoid crossing ethical or legal lines, like making harassing or threatening calls.

What Money Teaches Us About Connection

Here’s the bigger picture: money, as usual, finds a way to make things easier for us. Proxy call services are just another example of how money can bridge gaps—emotional, social, and even cultural. While we joke about how Nigerians can “hustle” anything, this business is ultimately about connection.

We live in a world where convenience reigns supreme. People are willing to pay for services that reduce stress or save time, no matter how unconventional they seem. And sometimes, spending money to maintain a relationship, apologise, or express love isn’t just convenient—it’s priceless.

Conclusion: The Future of Proxy Calls

As we move further into a tech-driven era, it’s easy to see this business scaling up. Imagine an app called “Call My Guy” where you can select a service, book a call, and get feedback—all for a small fee. With creativity and good branding, this niche idea could become a mainstream hustle.

So, the next time you’re stuck with a call you don’t want to make, remember—there’s someone out there willing to do it for you, for the right price. As we say in Nigeria, everything na hustle. And who knows? This just might be one of the smartest hustles yet.

Until next time,

Vaami from SimplVest