The Worst Cold Call Ever
The first nine seconds of an opening statement during a cold call are critical. If the statement does not immediately get the prospect’s attention (in a positive way), the telesales person’s time has been wasted. Not to mention the prospect’s time.
Preparing for the call and knowing what you are going to say to the prospect BEFORE you make the call is crucial.
Last year a telemarketer called me. Her opening statement was amazing. I’ll bet you have never heard an opening statement like this one. This is a true story, word for word.
She said: “Hello, I’m calling from Bank of America. Uh . . . I mean, the Chevron Corporation.”
(What??? See what I mean? Amazing.)
I asked her: “What company are you calling from?”
She answered: “The Chevron Corporation.”
She then went on to say: “I know you are busy, so I won’t take up much of your time.”
(She was right about that.)She began reading from a script, but I stopped her and ended the call.
Now, usually I listen to the whole pitch, because this is what I write about, and I often get good material from the people who call me. But this person was obviously working for a telemarketing firm that represented several different companies. And she did not even take the time (BEFORE she placed the call) to figure out which company she was representing during the call.
What is the worst – or best – telemarketing cold call you have ever received? Please post your comments below so our readers can benefit from your wisdom and experience.
About The Author
Ann Barr is a telesales marketing success coach with a passion for teaching. She loves helping people who are starting out in new telesales careers and working with experienced sales reps who are looking for new ideas and tips. In addition to presenting monthly e-classes, she writes and edits direct-mail marketing letters and emails for clients. Sign up today for Ann’s free Weekly Sales Tips and get marketing tips and ideas to increase your sales!
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