Image via Wikipedia

Looking back at our blog recently, we realised we’ve posted a whole host of hints and tips over the last couple of years, all of which stand the test of time.

With this in mind, here are 92 of our telemarketing hints and tips for you to browse and read, and hopefully learn from and action – why not add you favourite telemarketing tip in the comments?

• 5 Tips for Successful Telemarketing
• 5 Steps to Great Telemarketing
• 5 Ways to Bring in New Business
• 3 Uses for Telemarketing That Aren’t Selling

Image via Wikipedia

During a sales training about 5 years ago, the trainer, mentioned that in order to really see what a business organisation is concerned about, and what its objectives and requirements are, go to the news and jobs sections on the company website.

If you’re preparing for a call with a prospect that you’re really keen to do business with, then this really is sound advice. Why?

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.