Hello karllee2111, did you try to calibrate the controller?
If the aircraft is right above your head , the signal would be worse.
Which Phantom model you have? If you have a phantom 3 adv or pro,please see the video tutorial below to set the antenna in correct orientation.

Straight up will always be the worst angle for strong signal - it's all to do with the geometry of the antennas.
Fly out rather than straight up and things will be different.

What's your controller asking for?
Are you getting a message about compas calibration?
If so you probably have a lot of steel nearby .. perhaps launching from reinforced concrete?