Nobody likes cold calls. Nobody likes receiving them, and nobody likes making them. If this is the case, then why on earth do businesses continue to make them?
The strange truth is that cold calls work. Despite everyone’s moaning and groaning, if the right sales call reaches the right person at the right time – they will probably take it. Cold calling can be especially valuable if your business needs to drum interest in a new product or service. Here are some tips for making effective cold calls:
Believe in your business: Don’t make cold sales calls if you don’t honestly believe that your product or service is a great offer. People will be able to detect your opinion in your voice, and if you don’t believe in what you’re saying you will seem desperate. On the other hand, if you’re confident in your pitch people will respond by assuming that your offer must be a great one.
Listen carefully: If someone says they’re not interested, you’re unlikely to change their mind. Don’t waste your time trying to persuade them – it is simply not worth it.
It’s all in the timing: A lot rides on the time of day that you contact someone. Nobody likes a sales call at dinner, or after 9pm. If you’re cold calling to businesses, enquire with the gatekeeper (whoever answers the phone) about when the most convenient time to speak with the decision maker would be.