For many who are in the business of selling, the idea of the picking up the phone is somewhat daunting. But before you think that it’s just you, or you’re not cut out for sales calls, first be aware that the majority of sellers fear making the calls for some reason or another, a fear which in the business is often known as call reluctance.

Reaching the prospect’s voicemail is often nerve-racking, often prompting sales representatives to leave un-planned and vague messages which could potentially damage future sales. So obviously the key to leaving the most effective answer phone message is to be prepared.

Firstly, remember that it’s not always worth leaving a message after trying and not getting through the first time. Try two or three times before leaving a message, as the prospect may simply be in a meeting, on the phone, out to lunch etc. Once it is clear that the prospect could be hard to get hold of, then it is time to leave a message.

“Fail to prepare – prepare to fail”

Before you start, ask yourself the following;

• Why are you making this call? Are you clear about your call objectives?
• Have you got enough information to make the call?
• Prospect name and position? Are these details correct? (check with the receptionist before being put through)
• Type of company – what’s their industry sector?
• Company size, turnover, number of employees?
• Do you have the relevant email information if asked?
• Have as much information as possible, search their website, their industry newspapers / magazines

To be successful in telemarketing, the sales person has to be disciplined, but overall cold-calling is more scary than it is difficult. But once fear has been recognised and replaced by confidence of the product or service you are offering, then there are just 5 easy tips to follow to be a successful telemarketer.

1. Before making your calls, make sure you know your product inside-out, as this will not only make you come across more confident over the phone, but will also make it easier and quicker to close a sale.

Cold-calling is an important part of any marketing campaign and does not necessary involve spending all day making calls. Even if just a couple of hours are put aside for telemarketing every week or even every month, then at least a positive step forward is being made to encourage new business.

There are a few key steps to make, though, when considering and making cold-calls, so follow these 5 small steps to successful telemarketing.

We may sometimes think that the UK market is too saturated to generate new business, but at VSL we believe that 2011 is THE year to grow. So, to help you achieve this, we have come up with our top 5 ways to bring in new business.

1. Telemarketing - An integral part of any business, telemarketing isn't about ringing as many people as possible; it's about ringing the right people. By speaking to the decision makers from a carefully selected list of potential clients/customers etc, you can help to maximise new business potential. By offering enthusiastic and straight to the point information, you can ensure those at the other end of phone understand exactly who you are and what you’re offering.