Cold Calling Practices to Generate Hot Leads
If you think cold calling is too old-fashioned, these practices will update your perspective.
In the digital era where technology is flaming, cold calling may sound outdated.
Many are switching to a more modern way of generating leads.
For example, companies try to reach and engage with more audiences online by sharing strategic content to boost business sales.
However, with a little touch-up, cold calling can generate some hot leads for your sales.
When people think cold calling is dull, it’s because they do it wrong.
These six actionable practices will help revive your cold-calling strategy.
But, first… Let’s understand how it works.
What Is Cold Calling?
Cold calling is one of the well-known sales techniques to generate more leads, where sales representatives make a phone call with potential prospects who have no prior interest or interaction with the business.
It may sound challenging, but cold calling can grant your sales success when done correctly.
Here are some actionable practices for changing cold calling from a daily chore to a vital asset in your company.
1. Don’t just random-call
Don’t waste your time calling every number, do your research beforehand.
If you narrow down a targeted prospect list, it will save you from many rejections.
Know your audience and understand your product market fit. Make sure to call those who indeed demand solutions from your business.
2. Don’t just stick to your script
A successful cold calling requires a well-thought-of preparation, one of which is by outlining your cold call script.
You can get creative with your script to hook your prospects.
However, following your script like a robot will get your sales nowhere. Even worse, you’ll get rejected instantly.
Try to improvise your script during the call and create a meaningful conversation.
3. Build a connection
Most people hate answering anonymous calls.
The first few seconds will be your only chance to convince your prospect not to hang up.
Try to be in their shoes and win them over.
Understand their emotions and personality by asking open-ended questions.
You can ask questions that start with why, how, or what. This strategy will help you connect with them on a deeper level.
4. Avoid pitching too early
No need to rush in closing the deals. It’s better to gain trust first.
Pitching your sales too early can be disastrous, especially if it sounds too promotional.
Alternatively, you can offer them help.
Recognize their problems and use your product knowledge to make your prospect understand that your business can provide a solution.
5. Find your best time to call
There are many online cheat sheets telling when to cold call your prospects, but finding the right time yourself is crucial.
The best time to do a sales call may depend on your industry.
Use your call history with clients to analyze the timing pattern and their calling behavior.
It will help you determine the right time to make a cold call.
6. Don’t quit too quickly
Rejections are common in cold calls but also necessary for growth. If you keep running from it, you won’t reach success.
Try to handle rejections wisely and take learnings from them.
For example, you can anticipate rejections by practicing leaving an effective voicemail.
You can also prepare a strategic follow-up plan if it’s worth it.
Technology may help businesses increase conversion rates more easily, but it doesn’t make cold calls irrelevant.
With the right approach, cold calls can be your team’s superpower.
