Sick of Cold Calling? Try Warm Calling!

79 replies
UPDATE : My review of Places Scout, the #1 online/offline Internet Marketing Software Suite!

I hate cold calling. The idea of it irks me.

Anyway, with starting a mobile website design business, I knew that selling was inevitable. I have a couple guys helping in that department but I came across some region specific software that allows our mobile design company to go after companies that need our services within our area. One metric I have the ability to pull: does the potential client have a mobile website? Being able to answer this question before we even get on the phone is incredibly useful.

Other information that comes to be really handy is seeing what their overall web presence is like. Being able to see what their Google Page Rank is, SEOmoz data, Social Metrics, and other types of info really helps when it comes to going after clients.

I refuse to do another cold call because I have the tools to "warm up" before contacting my potential client. I have a system that leaves their jaw on the floor...I know more than they do about their own business. They see value in that from the moment I make contact.

PM me if you're interested in a report. I wanted this thread to voice one thing: Many of you don't have to be cold calling. Start with good data on your clients and show them your value!

Kyle
#calling #cold #offline #sick #warm
  • Profile picture of the author David Miller
    Having a great deal of information is something that takes you a long way towards the sales process. However, it's still a cold call.

    I think that you may define a cold call as a mindless dialing of number after number until someone answers and listens to your whole pitch. Yes, that IS cold calling for sure, and it's also what the general public would refer to as "telemarketing".

    If you call someone that doesn't know you, regardless of how much you know about them, it's a cold call. So much of what we do and how we do it is a matter of how we think about what we are doing. Being armed with pertinent information about your prospect is great. It is what separates the "telemarketer" from the sales person that uses the phone to market.
    Signature
    The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
    -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5489425].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

      Having a great deal of information is something that takes you a long way towards the sales process. However, it's still a cold call.

      I think that you may define a cold call as a mindless dialing of number after number until someone answers and listens to your whole pitch. Yes, that IS cold calling for sure, and it's also what the general public would refer to as "telemarketing".

      If you call someone that doesn't know you, regardless of how much you know about them, it's a cold call. So much of what we do and how we do it is a matter of how we think about what we are doing. Being armed with pertinent information about your prospect is great. It is what separates the "telemarketer" from the sales person that uses the phone to market.
      David,

      Thanks so much for the feedback. You're absolutely right. I, however, would disagree with you thinking it would still be considered a cold call. Regardless, you will have people that don't pick up their phone or hang up on you...those are people that, in all honesty, I wouldn't want to work with. It's more intriguing to work with somebody that realizes the value in your skills after you tell them their Page Authority is weak or their social presence is subpar.

      I still consider this type of information to "warm up" the phone call. So long as you can own the conversation, you have the upper hand. It's hard for the competent business man to turn down work that NEEDS to be done on their business. At least, it should be.

      Cheers to everyone that has contacted me. Hope I was able to help!

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5489932].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author link82
    PM sent, Kyle!
    Signature
    Quietly Selling Powerful Links. Just a handful on clean domains, PM me for inquiry :D
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5489504].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tousen
    Added on skype.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5489516].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bloggerd
    Kyle just finished my report for my local area and i am amazed at the detail that was in the report it has everything that you need to know about the Businesses in the industry your targeting, and the report is laid out perfect easy to navigate and find the data if they have mobile site google places etc. Will certainly be visiting Kyle agin for full report..
    Cheers Agin Kyle
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5490351].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by bloggerd View Post

      Kyle just finished my report for my local area and i am amazed at the detail that was in the report it has everything that you need to know about the Businesses in the industry your targeting, and the report is laid out perfect easy to navigate and find the data if they have mobile site google places etc. Will certainly be visiting Kyle agin for full report..
      Cheers Agin Kyle
      I enjoyed our chat today, Ian! Hope that information serves you well. Stay in touch...it doesn't hurt to know more people in this industry.

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5490990].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BrandyM
    added you to skype! Please PM me the details
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5490398].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author terip
    I'd have to go with David Miller on this one... My thoughts is still you are doing cold call but with a more effective and more detailed data when your doing it. So, in my opinion, you are warming up to potential clients by still doing cold calling.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5490473].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by terip View Post

      I'd have to go with David Miller on this one... My thoughts is still you are doing cold call but with a more effective and more detailed data when your doing it. So, in my opinion, you are warming up to potential clients by still doing cold calling.
      One could argue that the call is "cold" but using terminology that resinates with your potential client is key, regardless. Stating "my name is Kyle, I'm with so and so and I can see your Google Authority is a 14 out of 100. That's bad. I have the ability to fix it." This puts a metric on their dismal web presence.

      This information can be leveraged in a way that instills confidence in the caller. Yes, the call is cold. However, it's very empowering to have this information as ammunition when the person on the other end of the phone doesn't understand what's going on. Tell somebody they're failing and they'll either ask why or not give a crap. I don't want the clients that don't give a crap. This is a great filter for me, personally.

      Thanks for everyones thoughts!

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491130].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author jimbo13
        Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

        One could argue that the call is "cold" but using terminology that resinates with your potential client is key, regardless. Stating "my name is Kyle, I'm with so and so and I can see your Google Authority is a 14 out of 100. That's bad. I have the ability to fix it." This puts a metric on their dismal web presence.

        This information can be leveraged in a way that instills confidence in the caller. Yes, the call is cold. However, it's very empowering to have this information as ammunition when the person on the other end of the phone doesn't understand what's going on. Tell somebody they're failing and they'll either ask why or not give a crap. I don't want the clients that don't give a crap. This is a great filter for me, personally.

        Thanks for everyones thoughts!

        Kyle
        Agree with the bit that I have bolded above.

        I know what you are trying to say and you are correct in a way; especially if you don't require many customers, but what you are doing is still 100% a cold call.

        I'll tell you what the thing is that is warm and not cold.

        It is your confidence when making the call that the data is giving you.

        Dan
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5494496].message }}
  • because of the data that is provided in these reports you could actually build the rapport much quicker. Even if you went to their place of business (say a bar or something), and mentioned for example- hey I noticed you weren't located on google maps/ or didnt have a facebook page/ or mobile website/ could use a facelift on your website, ect. You would have prepared this information otherwise if you were looking to make a proposal or sale, this report just takes a lot of the legwork out of the research.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491448].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by DiamondLaneDesigns View Post

      because of the data that is provided in these reports you could actually build the rapport much quicker. Even if you went to their place of business (say a bar or something), and mentioned for example- hey I noticed you weren't located on google maps/ or didnt have a facebook page/ or mobile website/ could use a facelift on your website, ect. You would have prepared this information otherwise if you were looking to make a proposal or sale, this report just takes a lot of the legwork out of the research.
      That's exactly right! Thanks for making your first post in my thread...welcome to Warrior Forum

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491496].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author theemperor
        Would it be inefficent to do a report on a company to then find they are not contactable or not qualified or whatever?

        But I like your approach of being armed with information so how about this:

        Just have the relevant tabs open in firefox for Google Adwords, Page Rank Checker, Alexa etc and the client site.

        Then if the call goes well you can check this stuff on the fly.

        You can even say "I am going to run some analysis on your site and see how you are doing.... ah OK I can see that your site is X Y Z". I think this would sound impressive and helpful (they are having an expert help them in real time).
        Signature
        Learn to code faster, and remove the roadblocks. Get stuff done and shipped! PM me and I can help you with programming tutoring, specialising in Web and the following languages: Javascript ~ HTML ~ CSS ~ React ~ JQuery ~ Typescript ~ NodeJS ~ C#.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491711].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
          Originally Posted by theemperor View Post

          Would it be inefficent to do a report on a company to then find they are not contactable or not qualified or whatever?

          But I like your approach of being armed with information so how about this:

          Just have the relevant tabs open in firefox for Google Adwords, Page Rank Checker, Alexa etc and the client site.

          Then if the call goes well you can check this stuff on the fly.

          You can even say "I am going to run some analysis on your site and see how you are doing.... ah OK I can see that your site is X Y Z". I think this would sound impressive and helpful (they are having an expert help them in real time).
          Your approach is a variation, which is completely respectable. I still think being able to use hard numbers from this data is key in my pitch before letting the client say a word.

          Not to mention, from a mobile web standpoint, being able to see whether the company has a mobile website or not is priceless. That alone makes it worth my time to run reports.

          Thanks for stopping in

          Kyle
          Signature
          Need Help Growing Your Audience?
          Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
          Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491741].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Triggerkg
    What can I do but thank Kyle. The report he sent me gave me a huge list of leads i could call.

    After looking thorugh just one of the leads i know i could sell a Mobile Site, Facebook Fanpage & Applications, and loads more...

    There is so much you could telll the lead about there online presence they would be silly not to be at least interested in your offer
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5491792].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by Triggerkg View Post

      What can I do but thank Kyle. The report he sent me gave me a huge list of leads i could call.

      After looking thorugh just one of the leads i know i could sell a Mobile Site, Facebook Fanpage & Applications, and loads more...

      There is so much you could telll the lead about there online presence they would be silly not to be at least interested in your offer
      Glad the information is helping you, Kieron! It was a pleasure chatting with you on Skype...I hope your mobile business takes a leap in the coming days

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5494117].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    To any and all interest, via PM or this thread, I'm extremely swamped with client work and will get to your inquiries as soon as I can. Thanks a bunch!

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5495415].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author bizrep
      Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

      To any and all interest, via PM or this thread, I'm extremely swamped with client work and will get to your inquiries as soon as I can. Thanks a bunch!

      Kyle
      I can't pm you but you i would like a report and it won't allow me to put my email address either Does this work with any kind of service? Thanks
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5540180].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
        Originally Posted by bizrep View Post

        I can't pm you but you i would like a report and it won't allow me to put my email address either Does this work with any kind of service? Thanks
        I sent you a PM with my email address. You're welcome to shoot off an email to me and I'll respond with the report I've been giving to people.
        Signature
        Need Help Growing Your Audience?
        Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
        Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557065].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jordyhill
    Warm call, cold call....what about NO call at all? I got Kyle to work his magic for me, targeting restaurants and bars in my home town, Belfast.

    I got back 50 results fast. From that information I could deduce that 24 out of 50 did not have a mobile site or those that did were wasting their time...and money!

    But instead of calling them up for a chat, I simply made a report giving some indications as to what is wrong...but holding back on the rest to get their curiosity going. I mailed the reports - the addresses are in Kyles report - and let the interested parties call me. I let them know I could give them much better, not just mobiles, but the sites themselves. Some looked like a pigs ear!

    Its only been a few days but I'm already getting calls. Perfect. No need for me to call them direct and start waffling. I'm crap at cold calling, or even warm calling. I had a job in telesales once...lasted a week. For the sake of ten quid ($15) postage I have 4 in the bag already, a couple of grands' worth of work and residual income from hosting. Sweet.

    And it was all because of Kyle's report. Sure I could have sat bent over the Yellow Pages and visited each site individually, but I like having a life too.

    Thanks Kyle,
    Your report has made an okay January a GREAT January!
    Signature
    Total Web Solutions << Does what it says in the anchor text!
    Remember!..There are NO problems....ONLY solutions
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5495597].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Triggerkg
      Originally Posted by jordyhill View Post

      Warm call, cold call....what about NO call at all? I got Kyle to work his magic for me, targeting restaurants and bars in my home town, Belfast.

      I got back 50 results fast. From that information I could deduce that 24 out of 50 did not have a mobile site or those that did were wasting their time...and money!

      But instead of calling them up for a chat, I simply made a report giving some indications as to what is wrong...but holding back on the rest to get their curiosity going. I mailed the reports - the addresses are in Kyles report - and let the interested parties call me. I let them know I could give them much better, not just mobiles, but the sites themselves. Some looked like a pigs ear!

      Its only been a few days but I'm already getting calls. Perfect. No need for me to call them direct and start waffling. I'm crap at cold calling, or even warm calling. I had a job in telesales once...lasted a week. For the sake of ten quid ($15) postage I have 4 in the bag already, a couple of grands' worth of work and residual income from hosting. Sweet.

      And it was all because of Kyle's report. Sure I could have sat bent over the Yellow Pages and visited each site individually, but I like having a life too.

      Thanks Kyle,
      Your report has made an okay January a GREAT January!
      any chance of showing us all an example of the report you put together???
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5497893].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Ramzy
    good tips thanks
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5497355].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Adrian John
    Kyle, i pm you yesterday.I'm sure that your Inbox it's bombarded and i hope when you have the time you could help me.

    Adrian
    Signature
    ARE YOU A CONSULTANT? Do you have clients who could use MORE LEADS?
    Get them a MOBILE WEBSITE PLATFORM built to stay up with their clients habits.
    More than 50% of their customers buys from their mobile devices now!

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5499038].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    At this point, I should be up to date on PM's. Everybody that's asked for a sample report is either having one sent at the moment or needs to PM me their email address.

    To those that have seen the potential and went for a report, I'm glad to have helped!

    Jump on Skype anytime today...i'll get around to showing you what I'm doing. Maybe you'll be interested in a report for your own area!

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5500854].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    Reports are up to date on PM's I received with email addresses.

    Also, if you're dropping in and want a sample, if you have an extra sec, please let the forum know via this thread if the information helps you or you think it's valuable. The community seems to be very interested in what I'm doing and your words really matter. I can only speak for myself on this stuff.

    Thanks!

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5501127].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    Just a reminder to people getting a hold of me for the free report:

    I need your email address to send it to you. Please include it in the PM and you'll get the report much faster

    Hope it helps you in your quest to make the big bucks!

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5502598].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author jordyhill
    **UPDATE** 7 new clients!
    Triggerkg...PM sent
    Signature
    Total Web Solutions << Does what it says in the anchor text!
    Remember!..There are NO problems....ONLY solutions
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5502819].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by jordyhill View Post

      **UPDATE** 7 new clients!
      Triggerkg...PM sent
      Holy cow, dude. What are you doing out there in Ireland!?

      Congrats on that. Geeze. Do I get a commission?

      Totally kidding...so glad for you. That's the whole point of helping everyone here.

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5502864].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    You don't need much to get a decision maker's interest. A fact...an idea...something to pique their interest. I find there are always a certain set of phrases that work for this individual niche I'm calling into...once I've spent the two or three days figuring those out, the rest of the calling is easy. The right words make the prospect pay attention. But you have to invest some time to find out what those phrases are.

    The first thing you say on the call will shape how the rest of the call turns out--if you put them into the typical salesperson attacker - prospect defender setup, the wall will go up and the call will be over quick.

    If you instead show them something of value, and get them wondering how you can help them (like "help you get more customers in the door" instead of "I make websites"), then the call will keep going. You'll have a chance to hear what's going on in their world and determine if you and they are a fit.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5503387].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by kaniganj View Post

      You don't need much to get a decision maker's interest. A fact...an idea...something to pique their interest. I find there are always a certain set of phrases that work for this individual niche I'm calling into...once I've spent the two or three days figuring those out, the rest of the calling is easy. The right words make the prospect pay attention. But you have to invest some time to find out what those phrases are.

      The first thing you say on the call will shape how the rest of the call turns out--if you put them into the typical salesperson attacker - prospect defender setup, the wall will go up and the call will be over quick.

      If you instead show them something of value, and get them wondering how you can help them (like "help you get more customers in the door" instead of "I make websites"), then the call will keep going. You'll have a chance to hear what's going on in their world and determine if you and they are a fit.
      I think you're right, Jason. A lot of it has to do with acting like a human being to them. If you attack them with your sales pitch, it's over from the start.

      What I'm trying to demonstrate with these reports is competitive advantage. I don't think you'll convince me or the others that took my advice/report that it's not amazing being able to detect whether or not there's a mobile site for a company. It's saving us TONS of time in the long run...that's an initial filter that drives us harder into making those calls. The software is relentless with features that help all walks in IM. It's insane.

      I just wanted to share this in a dedicated thread because a lot of people view the WSO's as crap here and it shouldn't be that way. I have a lot of purchases that made a significant difference to my efforts. The reality is, having some money to throw at the cause is important.

      I will continue sending out sample reports as long as people ask for them PM me with your email!

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508137].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author John Durham
    Warm calling?

    Thats novel. Why hasnt it been thought of before?

    JK... Kinda.

    Lol. 2 years ago cold calling wasnt a huge topic here, and people were lost leading each other into ditches trying to get business... in fact there wasnt even an offline section...

    And now they are sick of the first thing that really made them money... lol

    There were exceptions, like door to door people getting business before this section..., the occasional chamber of commerce sale, or craglist sale...(unpredictable at best) but nothing like the way people are churning sales right now, LEFT AND RIGHT, and I promise 90% of it is from cold calling.

    Anyway, warm calling is better in some ways, especially the "perceived" ones, ... but the cost of generating a warm call has to be considered, thats not generally perceived in the equation, nor the new variables it brings in.

    For instance you can spend two days generating a more targeted list, and lose two days of just calling and creating some business in the meantime.

    All things have to be considered. Some things theoretically sound better, but in reality they slow you down...

    You have to weigh these things. For instance:

    You can spend a week making grand plans to call 5 people while someone else spent the week cold calling 500 and already has 3 sales in the bag and 2k in his pocket, and 3 more warm calls generated in the process, just waiting in the pipeline.

    Not to diss any other way.... but to be sick of cold calling is to be sick of your number one money making avenue.

    The rest of the ways are prettier "seemingly", but waste alot more time in my experience.

    People here made alot less money before they started cold calling. I have watched the whole process.

    MOST, not all, other techniques here are spikey at best, non predictable.... non project able, and usually spouted by inexperienced people trying to capitalize on peoples distaste for cold calling with a good "Hook", while simultaneously having them buy un thoroughly tested software, or chase rainbows... for months on end.

    You generally see testimonials like "This is cool, looks like the answer to my probs", and others here and there who say "I got a sale"... that they would have gotten anyway from action...

    But you DONT see people saying "A month ago I was only making one sale per week but now that I have this software Im making ten sales per week consistently".

    There really arent any miracle cures. Action is the biggest one.

    There is the rare exception, and this may be one, but thats the rule.

    Our chances of success are bigger if we plan by rules and not make plans based on exceptions.

    Even the strategy of calling only people who already have other services, to insure that they are spenders, is offset by the rebuttal that "We already have it handled" and presents its own new set of variables to deal with.


    Cold calling is the most effective way to generate warm calls.


    Thank me later.

    Ps. Alot of things you cant convince the inexperienced of Jason... Because they only have theory to go on which seems to make more sense to the naked eye.

    Thats why we are called seasoned veterans.

    Its like bidding on a broad keyword... Sure bidding on keywords is a faster way to traffic than organic listings..., but do you understand all the nuances that go along with that generalization?

    If not you stand to lose thousands to every sale you gain for months on end, until you learn the nuances, and the things that seem okay in theory, yet the theory goes much deeper than the surface assumption would indicate.

    For instance, finding a person with everything in the world but a mobile is cool... but convincing them on why they should let you do it when they already have a web guy whob does their google places, site, seop and all that... can be another variable that makes it just as easy and even more profitable to cold call.

    Thats just one.

    But heck, if I had some software like that I'd sell it too.

    Lots of variables.

    Honestly, most of the scrapers around here are so complicated to understand that it requires ongoing training and assistance to even USE them...and I could make two yellow book sales before I even figured out how to get my list pliable and usable with most of them... and the results that turn up are usually skippy as far as accuracy.

    With ANY list, there is a good chance that you generate the info and then the persons info isnt correct half the time anyway... and they say "Oh we already have that, just havent updated our info yet...".

    Easier just to generate a huge business list in 5 minutes or less and go to town asking people if they need your service, you will get further faster, without all the bling bling.

    The most effective technique I have seen yet is just simply saying "Hey Im a web designer, new in town, just calling to introduce my service and hopefully drum up some work..., I was wondering what kind of web projects you folks might be thinking about there that I could help you with"?

    Establish interest or "not", and move on. Next. Real easy going.

    People get more sales with that than anything.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508346].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by John Durham View Post

      Warm calling?

      Thats novel. Why hasnt it been thought of before?

      JK... Kinda.

      Lol. 2 years ago cold calling wasnt a huge topic here, and people were lost leading each other into ditches trying to get business... in fact there wasnt even an offline section...

      And now they are sick of the first thing that really made them money... lol

      There were exceptions, like door to door people getting business before this section..., the occasional chamber of commerce sale, or craglist sale...(unpredictable at best) but nothing like the way people are churning sales right now, LEFT AND RIGHT, and I promise 90% of it is from cold calling.

      Anyway, warm calling is better in some ways, especially the "perceived" ones, ... but the cost of generating a warm call has to be considered, thats not generally perceived in the equation, nor the new variables it brings in.

      For instance you can spend two days generating a more targeted list, and lose two days of just calling and creating some business in the meantime.

      All things have to be considered. Some things theoretically sound better, but in reality they slow you down...

      You have to weigh these things. For instance:

      You can spend a week making grand plans to call 5 people while someone else spent the week cold calling 500 and already has 3 sales in the bag and 2k in his pocket, and 3 more warm calls generated in the process, just waiting in the pipeline.

      Not to diss any other way.... but to be sick of cold calling is to be sick of your number one money making avenue.

      The rest of the ways are prettier "seemingly", but waste alot more time in my experience.

      People here made alot less money before they started cold calling. I have watched the whole process.

      MOST, not all, other techniques here are spikey at best, non predictable.... non project able, and usually spouted by inexperienced people trying to capitalize on peoples distaste for cold calling with a good "Hook", while simultaneously having them buy un thoroughly tested software, or chase rainbows... for months on end.

      You generally see testimonials like "This is cool, looks like the answer to my probs", and others here and there who say "I got a sale"... that they would have gotten anyway from action...

      But you DONT see people saying "A month ago I was only making one sale per week but now that I have this software Im making ten sales per week consistently".

      There really arent any miracle cures. Action is the biggest one.

      There is the rare exception, and this may be one, but thats the rule.

      Our chances of success are bigger if we plan by rules and not make plans based on exceptions.

      Even the strategy of calling only people who already have other services, to insure that they are spenders, is offset by the rebuttal that "We already have it handled" and presents its own new set of variables to deal with.


      Cold calling is the most effective way to generate warm calls.


      Thank me later.

      Ps. Alot of things you cant convince the inexperienced of Jason... Because they only have theory to go on which seems to make more sense to the naked eye.

      Thats why we are called seasoned veterans.

      Its like bidding on a broad keyword... Sure bidding on keywords is a faster way to traffic than organic listings..., but do you understand all the nuances that go along with that generalization?

      If not you stand to lose thousands to every sale you gain for months on end, until you learn the nuances, and the things that seem okay in theory, yet the theory goes much deeper than the surface assumption would indicate.

      For instance, finding a person with everything in the world but a mobile is cool... but convincing them on why they should let you do it when they already have a web guy whob does their google places, site, seop and all that... can be another variable that makes it just as easy and even more profitable to cold call.

      Thats just one.

      But heck, if I had some software like that I'd sell it too.

      Lots of variables.

      Honestly, most of the scrapers around here are so complicated to understand that it requires ongoing training and assistance to even USE them...and I could make two yellow book sales before I even figured out how to get my list pliable and usable with most of them... and the results that turn up are usually skippy as far as accuracy.

      With ANY list, there is a good chance that you generate the info and then the persons info isnt correct half the time anyway... and they say "Oh we already have that, just havent updated our info yet...".

      Easier just to generate a huge business list in 5 minutes or less and go to town asking people if they need your service, you will get further faster, without all the bling bling.

      The most effective technique I have seen yet is just simply saying "Hey Im a web designer, new in town, just calling to introduce my service and hopefully drum up some work..., I was wondering what kind of web projects you folks might be thinking about there that I could help you with"?

      Establish interest or "not", and move on. Next. Real easy going.

      People get more sales with that than anything.
      John,

      I appreciate the extensive post! Getting a real world cold calling professional in the thread is honoring.

      As I read through your response, I notice some variable situations that can make this information hard to deal with. You state it can make things more complicated. There are ultimately two ways to find success: go after something for awhile and see if it works or move onto the next thing that might bring you success. This sounds simple but I firmly think it's true. Whether you're working on 2 or 20 projects, you find out whether it works by trial and error or by somebodies tried and true efforts.

      I see you have an old school background, which is awesome and means your business efforts have longevity. But the reality is simple: Some people don't feel comfortable cold calling somebody and feeling below them. Yes. Below them. Some people have a real fear for cold calling. While I would generally encourage them to get over that fear by doing more calls, it can be argued that go getters will use this information to encourage themselves of the value they provide. It's all a matter of connecting the dots between the marketer and the customer. For those that have trouble calling, it can be a real motivator.

      I truly appreciate you coming into my thread and providing your experience with cold calling and success. I'll think more deeply about my efforts, likely spending less time focusing on the information in front of me.

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508689].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author John Durham
        Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post


        I see you have an old school background, which is awesome and means your business efforts have longevity. But the reality is simple: Some people don't feel comfortable cold calling somebody and feeling below them. Yes. Below them. Some people have a real fear for cold calling.

        I truly appreciate you coming into my thread and providing your experience with cold calling and success. I'll think more deeply about my efforts, likely spending less time focusing on the information in front of me.

        Kyle
        If you consider the beginning of the internet old school, then okay. Not exactly Dale Carnegie.

        The trouble with feeling "below" cold calling is not a reality issue, its a "perception" one. In truth its one business person calling another business person... you are a member of the business community just like they are.

        Its just a "feeling" as you described, but its not real. No matter what software you use its still going to feel that way... only you are making less c alls , so you are feeling it less.

        Any professional, old or new school, in any neck of the woods in America or otherwise, in ANY time period (including now) is separated from a novice by their understanding of this.

        Paul Myers would be the first to tell you that gadgets are cool, but at some point, even in 2012, the thing that will seperate you from the losers is "learning to sell".

        Selling hasnt changed.

        Neitherhas the belief that a new toy will make the hard parts go away.

        No matter WHERE YOU GO... there are successful people who learn to sell, and unsuccessful ones looking for a way around selling.

        Its just a fact...old or new school. You can give ten people the same technology and the ones who hate selling will still fail.

        I didnt make the rules. just have observed them alot.

        Thanks for the props. Not cutting down technology, just saying it isnt a miracle cure in ANY AGE.

        Im 42 not 82 by the way.... but the older I get, the more sense my grandmother makes.

        Diet pills will make you lose alot of water weight, but they dont make you a healthy person.

        The same goes for trying to find a better way than "learning to sell".

        But most people will not pay attention to this. Its okay.

        20 years ago they were trying to find a way around selling, and twenty years from now they still will be.

        Technology helps, but it doesnt change the disciplin required and the skills that you need to learn and possess.

        Take that from a guy who has seen a few seasons turn.

        Good luck with this BTW. Thanks for being so reasonable about my opinions.

        It doesnt hurt to try new things... I do it all the time. I usually find though that principles dont change.


        PPS> In 1998 it was like "Now you can sell on a website and you dont have to spend thousands of dollars on classified ads", No risk or work right? Its easy, you practically dont even have to sell...because customers find YOU... lol

        Then the dot com boom crashed.

        Because the principle stayed the same even though the medium changed.

        Yes, you have to invest to get people to an "online ad".... and they still have to be targeted...

        Somethings are cool...but they still dont change that you have to be able to sell, and work within the parameters of timeless principles.

        People will always feel "below" selling, and they will always fail. Others will always work through that and succeed.

        Thats the rule in sales, you have to get beyond the false perceptions.

        Again, in any event, I hope you have a breakthrough here with this software. My experience has been that most are more trouble to operate or glean a sizable list from than they are worth.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508749].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author David Miller
          I think it's time that we all stopped kidding ourselves. Cold calling simply doesn't work. People who answer the phone think we are awful for bothering them during their busy day. It's makes me feel bad when I do that.

          I don't want to feel bad, who does, I know none of you do!

          So let's all stop cold calling! It's a waste of time and we can get all the business owners, large and small, to start liking us again and what's more important than that?

          I suggest that for the next two weeks NO ONE COLD CALLS.

          I promise I won't either.

          Who's with me on this? Raise your hands?
          Signature
          The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
          -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508888].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author John Durham
            Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

            I think it's time that we all stopped kidding ourselves. Cold calling simply doesn't work. People who answer the phone think we are awful for bothering them during their busy day. It's makes me feel bad when I do that.

            I don't want to feel bad, who does, I know none of you do!

            So let's all stop cold calling! It's a waste of time and we can get all the business owners, large and small, to start liking us again and what's more important than that?

            I suggest that for the next two weeks NO ONE COLD CALLS.

            I promise I won't either.

            Who's with me on this? Raise your hands?
            I know Im on board. Does hiring other count?

            I mean how am I gonna get sales if no one is cold calling?

            Well, at least being completely broke makes me feel higher than cold calling people does.

            I should tell my friend Rob who makes 300k per year cold calling for the investment banking industry that he's below the millionaires he bugs everyday, before he makes a fool of himself driving a mere Benz

            Or tell my brother Michael that the Big Ass house he lives in doesnt make him successful as long as he got it by being below other people.

            Ps. you know; the ones who cant pay $300. per month for an apartment, but at least they dont stoop to cold calling?

            Those people.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508935].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author ShayB
            Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

            I think it's time that we all stopped kidding ourselves. Cold calling simply doesn't work. People who answer the phone think we are awful for bothering them during their busy day. It's makes me feel bad when I do that.

            I don't want to feel bad, who does, I know none of you do!

            So let's all stop cold calling! It's a waste of time and we can get all the business owners, large and small, to start liking us again and what's more important than that?

            I suggest that for the next two weeks NO ONE COLD CALLS.

            I promise I won't either.

            Who's with me on this? Raise your hands?
            You know what!? Emails bug the snot of of people, too, so we won't do that either!

            And walking in without an appointment to drum up business ticks people off, too, so that's out.

            People really hate junk mail, so....that's out.

            I fully support this boycott of prospecting methods! GO TEAM!

            (Not that I plan on participating. I plan on scarfing up all of the clients everyone else isn't calling/emailing/visiting.... )
            Signature
            "Fate protects fools, little children, and ships called Enterprise." ~Commander Riker
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508980].message }}
      • Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

        John,

        I appreciate the extensive post! Getting a real world cold calling professional in the thread is honoring.

        As I read through your response, I notice some variable situations that can make this information hard to deal with. You state it can make things more complicated. There are ultimately two ways to find success: go after something for awhile and see if it works or move onto the next thing that might bring you success. This sounds simple but I firmly think it's true. Whether you're working on 2 or 20 projects, you find out whether it works by trial and error or by somebodies tried and true efforts.

        I see you have an old school background, which is awesome and means your business efforts have longevity. But the reality is simple: Some people don't feel comfortable cold calling somebody and feeling below them. Yes. Below them. Some people have a real fear for cold calling. While I would generally encourage them to get over that fear by doing more calls, it can be argued that go getters will use this information to encourage themselves of the value they provide. It's all a matter of connecting the dots between the marketer and the customer. For those that have trouble calling, it can be a real motivator.

        I truly appreciate you coming into my thread and providing your experience with cold calling and success. I'll think more deeply about my efforts, likely spending less time focusing on the information in front of me.

        Kyle
        Kyle your thread is an interesting composite of a question that has been asked by sales and marketing people through the ages I suspect. As you can see from my handle I am a sales and marketing "old timer" I guess. Really there isn't an "Old school" and a "New school" so to speak. There is just "The school." Each of us as we enter a field of endeavor are at the starting line of our individual journey. Like gravity some principles are always the same for all of us. Yes tools and technology change how we do things as these improve but the basic principles (laws) are always the same.

        Cold calling by its nature is and always has been difficult for we humans. At the root are two factors we all have in our basic psyche. Fear of failure and fear of rejection. Yes there are other fears we all possess but those are the two that we sales and marketing types have to deal with the most in common.

        I remember Zig Ziglar, a great sales trainer using the term "warm calling" over 30 years ago. And others before him I'm sure. It is a valid way to approach finding prospects and customers. The more information you have beforehand does make it easier to approach anything unknown. BTW fear of the "unknown" is another fear we all deal with.

        Each of us has to figure out what works for us but being uncomfortable with something or a little scared is not a bad thing in and of itself. Fear has a purpose. Understanding some basic psychology concerning the sales environment and how we and our prospects are affected by this environment goes along ways.

        I believe that some study in that arena would help more of us in prospecting and in all the steps of the sales process. Unfortunately most will not really dig into this science.

        There are two principles that most don't understand or study that peel back a lot of insight into sales success. The "Parato Principle" or more commonly known as the 80/20 rule indicates how many will be at the top of a profession and the best at it. Also the "Winning Edge" Principle that states that the people who accomplish in multiples more than the next person is only 3-4% better overall. That is the engine behind the 80/20 rule.

        We all have the necessary abilities to deal with obstacles in our way, for example, cold calling. However it is our own free choice as to the effort we will put into being successful.

        Being prepared is a great position to be in but getting to it is also a good position too. The more experienced marketer like John knows both positions well but many times we "Old Timers" know that just gritting your teeth and grabbing the bull by the horns is really what needs to be done. And we all know that things get easier with practice.

        IMHO,

        Old Dog
        Signature

        P.S. If I can be of any assistance in your "Off" or "On"- line sales and marketing please PM me or email at WinnersChoice-Warrior@yahoo.com . Old Dog

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509039].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
          Originally Posted by Old Dog New Tricks View Post

          Kyle your thread is an interesting composite of a question that has been asked by sales and marketing people through the ages I suspect. As you can see from my handle I am a sales and marketing "old timer" I guess. Really there isn't an "Old school" and a "New school" so to speak. There is just "The school." Each of us as we enter a field of endeavor are at the starting line of our individual journey. Like gravity some principles are always the same for all of us. Yes tools and technology change how we do things as these improve but the basic principles (laws) are always the same.

          Cold calling by its nature is and always has been difficult for we humans. At the root are two factors we all have in our basic psyche. Fear of failure and fear of rejection. Yes there are other fears we all possess but those are the two that we sales and marketing types have to deal with the most in common.

          I remember Zig Ziglar, a great sales trainer using the term "warm calling" over 30 years ago. And others before him I'm sure. It is a valid way to approach finding prospects and customers. The more information you have beforehand does make it easier to approach anything unknown. BTW fear of the "unknown" is another fear we all deal with.

          Each of us has to figure out what works for us but being uncomfortable with something or a little scared is not a bad thing in and of itself. Fear has a purpose. Understanding some basic psychology concerning the sales environment and how we and our prospects are affected by this environment goes along ways.

          I believe that some study in that arena would help more of us in prospecting and in all the steps of the sales process. Unfortunately most will not really dig into this science.

          There are two principles that most don't understand or study that peel back a lot of insight into sales success. The "Parato Principle" or more commonly known as the 80/20 rule indicates how many will be at the top of a profession and the best at it. Also the "Winning Edge" Principle that states that the people who accomplish in multiples more than the next person is only 3-4% better overall. That is the engine behind the 80/20 rule.

          We all have the necessary abilities to deal with obstacles in our way, for example, cold calling. However it is our own free choice as to the effort we will put into being successful.

          Being prepared is a great position to be in but getting to it is also a good position too. The more experienced marketer like John knows both positions well but many times we "Old Timers" know that just gritting your teeth and grabbing the bull by the horns is really what needs to be done. And we all know that things get easier with practice.

          IMHO,

          Old Dog
          Well put, Old Dog. Thanks for the wisdom and extensive response. I'm actually reading a book called "Buyology" by Martin Lindstrom that delves into the question of why we buy things on the neurological level. Neuromarketing, as it's referred to in the book. It can be hard to read a lot of in one sitting because it's very statistically-driven. Martin did a few interesting studies in that book of which apply to the neurological landscape of buying/selling.

          Kyle
          Signature
          Need Help Growing Your Audience?
          Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
          Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509206].message }}
          • Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

            Well put, Old Dog. Thanks for the wisdom and extensive response. I'm actually reading a book called "Buyology" by Martin Lindstrom that delves into the question of why we buy things on the neurological level. Neuromarketing, as it's referred to in the book. It can be hard to read a lot of in one sitting because it's very statistically-driven. Martin did a few interesting studies in that book of which apply to the neurological landscape of buying/selling.

            Kyle
            Keep at it my friend. Keep building the technology. I like tools as much as anyone and I admire anyone who can build them in the digital world. Just remember what tools are Kyle, they are just tools. They are helpers and can apply leverage.

            Bottom line is that at some point we have to deal with each other (people) in the sales process. Keep reading and learning then apply. You can be a really good mechanic and use tools well and that is honorable but mechanics usually are in the middle of the pecking order and they are fine with that. I call my self a mechanic and I do OK.

            But strive to be more if you want, its your choice and this applies to all who read this. The top of the ladder is where the engineers are. They are not only mechanics but they understand why things work.

            To be at the top of the sales and marketing game, the top earners, have learned and lust to learn more more about why their customers do what they do and also why they themselves do what they do.

            Ask them for yourself, listen, apply and you will be a sales leader too. Also remember you can't give away what you don't possess. Also if you generously give what you do possess it will come back to you in multiples. The big time marketers we all look up to got this figured out too.

            O.D.
            Signature

            P.S. If I can be of any assistance in your "Off" or "On"- line sales and marketing please PM me or email at WinnersChoice-Warrior@yahoo.com . Old Dog

            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509612].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author David Miller
              I guess I'm a bit guilty of injecting some well meaning levity here....I apoligize if it threw things out of whack. There was another thread not long ago that was clearly nothing but a blatant attempt at self promotion, and offering nothing whatsoever in any manner of help or advice. That thread turned into a major bitch fest.....no need to go there.

              Kyle explained what he did and why he found it helpful. He was kind enough to send me a sample report when I asked. No strings attached.....no mailing list, no sales speak...just here's what I can get you...let me know if you want it. I can respect that. I have no need for it, but I can see where someone else might.

              His premise that this makes a cold call warm is something that I take exception with. However, much of what goes on when we pick up the phone to make that call is all in between our ears. I can see where having the kind of information provided at the ready could give someone the motivation to place a call where they otherwise may not. It's my contention that if a tool is out there, readily available, and relatively inexpensive, and it can provide someone that one thing that gets them to pick up the phone, it's my opinion that there's real value here.

              I also firmly believe that the more threads about using the phone to conduct business creates an environment that fosters a stronger sense of what the sales process really is. We can send all the emails, postcards, mockups, videos, and hotair balloons we want, but at the end of the day, if you plan to be successful, you're going to have to speak to someone.
              Signature
              The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
              -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5510020].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
                Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

                I also firmly believe that the more threads about using the phone to conduct business creates an environment that fosters a stronger sense of what the sales process really is. We can send all the emails, postcards, mockups, videos, and hotair balloons we want, but at the end of the day, if you plan to be successful, you're going to have to speak to someone.

                Spot on Brotha, Spot on !
                Signature

                Selling Ain't for Sissies!
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5510134].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author John Durham
                Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

                I guess I'm a bit guilty of injecting some well meaning levity here....I apoligize if it threw things out of whack. There was another thread not long ago that was clearly nothing but a blatant attempt at self promotion, and offering nothing whatsoever in any manner of help or advice. That thread turned into a major bitch fest.....no need to go there.

                Kyle explained what he did and why he found it helpful. He was kind enough to send me a sample report when I asked. No strings attached.....no mailing list, no sales speak...just here's what I can get you...let me know if you want it. I can respect that. I have no need for it, but I can see where someone else might.

                His premise that this makes a cold call warm is something that I take exception with. However, much of what goes on when we pick up the phone to make that call is all in between our ears. I can see where having the kind of information provided at the ready could give someone the motivation to place a call where they otherwise may not. It's my contention that if a tool is out there, readily available, and relatively inexpensive, and it can provide someone that one thing that gets them to pick up the phone, it's my opinion that there's real value here.

                I also firmly believe that the more threads about using the phone to conduct business creates an environment that fosters a stronger sense of what the sales process really is. We can send all the emails, postcards, mockups, videos, and hotair balloons we want, but at the end of the day, if you plan to be successful, you're going to have to speak to someone.
                Yes and interjections like we have added balance people out to where they understand that there is no miracle cure. If you cant sell, the greatest tool on earth wont help.

                I have seen g scrapers that are amazing, but you could make 100 calls using just the time and energy it takes to make a list with them.

                If people want to use extra curricular tools great, they are cool, but the fundamental principles will still be required, and some thing are cool but you spend more energy messing with them than you do profiting. I'd like to check it out too, and if its good I will come back and testify.

                But if it takes two hours to make a list.... then I personally would pass.

                If I seriously thought a new toy like a special scraper would benefit people more than just getting down hardcore on any list they can muster, I would pay someone in the Philippines 500 bucks to create one for my forum, and I'd sell 500 memberships based off of it.

                The thing is though that I have seen people be distracted by new toys for months on end, and never really bare down on a list and just rock it.

                In my experience you make more progress by printing out a thousand numbers and just going to town all the way down the list, mentally, and QUICKLY, cherry picking as you go.

                Its about momentum. If you dont have enough numbers to get any, you arent even getting warmed up enough to be in the "zone".
                I'll try it and even BUY it, if its good.

                I think the notion "Are you sick of cold calling? Try warm calling", as if no one has ever thought of that... is what got my attention here.

                There are 50 scrapers on this forum... its not a new concept, and so far I dont see anyone saying they are getting a ton of sales since they switched, although I have looked at a couple of "reports" from them... and they look cool.

                I have even bought a couple, then saw the process for creating the lists and thought "This is too much trouble".

                Im not a refunder, and I made the choice to purchase, and dont refund just because I changed my mind, because I think its lame to do that, but they just sit on my pc not being used. Its too easy to print out a thousand numbers another way.

                On another note, i always take notice when a person is promoting something without a sig or WSO and just asking for PMs, because some use it as a way to game the warrior forum and push affiliate products that they didnt create which is not what the warrior forum is for.

                Lastly, some people have multiple usernames, so Im jaded and skeptical when I see certain things and its our job to mod the forums... Some of us just do it vigilante style.
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5510149].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author ShayB
                  Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

                  ...but at the end of the day, if you plan to be successful, you're going to have to speak to someone.
                  Exactly. Leads are worthless if you don't talk to/communicate with them at some point.

                  Originally Posted by John Durham View Post

                  Yes and interjections like we have added balance people out to where they understand that there is no miracle cure. If you cant sell, the greatest tool on earth wont help.
                  Again, very true.

                  The levity interjected wasn't a slam to the OP. Simply showing a different point of view.

                  As far as it being mentioned that cold calling is "below" some people:

                  Some people think they're too good to clean houses for a living. Or whatever.

                  Then there are others that make money from cleaning houses, then parlay that money and experience and create a business where they manage a team of people to clean the houses while they make a profit.

                  Then there are those that take that and create a cleaning franchise worth millions.

                  How can creating a legitimate 6 or 7-figure business be beneath someone? :rolleyes:

                  You do what you have to do.

                  Tools are great. I certainly don't want to wash my clothes by beating them on a rock in a stream by my house.

                  But I still have to load the washer, put in the soap, set the controls, take out the clothes, put them in the dryer, then fold them afterwards.

                  Having a tool doesn't mean clients magically fall into your lap - and that's what some of us want to convey.
                  Signature
                  "Fate protects fools, little children, and ships called Enterprise." ~Commander Riker
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5510721].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author RentItNow
      Originally Posted by John Durham View Post

      The most effective technique I have seen yet is just simply saying "Hey Im a web designer, new in town, just calling to introduce my service and hopefully drum up some work..., I was wondering what kind of web projects you folks might be thinking about there that I could help you with"?

      Establish interest or "not", and move on. Next. Real easy going.

      People get more sales with that than anything.
      This is VERY good advice and works over and over. Magic, I tell ya, magic. I dont know how long we can be 'new' for but hey, if it works it works.

      Reminds me of the line from Zohan. "So your going out of business, huh?" "No no no. It's just a sign. It is good for business."
      Signature
      I have no agenda but to help those in the same situation. This I feel will pay the bills.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5532728].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author John Durham
    Oh Shay.... this is too much fun. But I better not spend any more time here...

    Remember when you were a new warrior.... before you "got" all the hardcore BS?

    Ah.... Memories.

    Still takes a "rocky" attitude to be a champ....old school or not. If you cant afford a speed bag , then hit a side of beef.

    Its all about the fundamentals.

    Ps. I once watched a one legged preacher in a room with no air conditioning get an appointment with Walmart that lead to a multi million dollar contract with nothing but a phone , a pitch, a scratch pad, and a wholesalers directory that was damp from the humidity.

    David Weinberg, my friend ended up building the top wallpaper manufacturing company in the world off that contract, and later there was all the air conditioning that any kid with a marketing degree ever dreamed of.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5508998].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author David Miller
      I'm glad to see so many people jumping on board. This'll show em' for sure!

      I've already moved another coffee maker over to my desk because I know I'll be answering all those incoming calls for the next few weeks. I may even have to go to ebay and see if I can find an old "trucker's friend" I'll be so busy.

      Once all the business owners see just how thoughtful we really are, they will be anxious to call and find out if we take paypal!
      Signature
      The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
      -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509024].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    I'm sorry. Is this Forum meant to help people or belittle people trying to help people?
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509051].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author John Durham
      Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

      I'm sorry. Is this Forum meant to help people or belittle people trying to help people?

      It's to sell wso's via PM and skype ...or Is the software free?

      Originally Posted by Old Dog New Tricks View Post

      I guess. Really there isn't an "Old school" and a "New school" so to speak. There is just "The school." Each of us as we enter a field of endeavor are at the starting line of our individual journey.
      Indeed. And trying to find ways around learning to sell is an indication that we are still near the beginning of the race.


      Originally Posted by jordyhill View Post

      Warm call, cold call....what about NO call at all? I got Kyle to work his magic for me, targeting restaurants and bars in my home town, Belfast.

      I got back 50 results fast. From that information I could deduce that 24 out of 50 did not have a mobile site or those that did were wasting their time...and money!

      But instead of calling them up for a chat, I simply made a report giving some indications as to what is wrong...but holding back on the rest to get their curiosity going. I mailed the reports - the addresses are in Kyles report - and let the interested parties call me. I let them know I could give them much better, not just mobiles, but the sites themselves. Some looked like a pigs ear!

      Its only been a few days (Johns edit: even though the posts here are only one day apart) but I'm already getting calls. Perfect. No need for me to call them direct and start waffling. I'm crap at cold calling, or even warm calling. I had a job in telesales once...lasted a week. For the sake of ten quid ($15) postage I have 4 in the bag already, a couple of grands' worth of work and residual income from hosting. Sweet.

      And it was all because of Kyle's report. Sure I could have sat bent over the Yellow Pages and visited each site individually, but I like having a life too.

      Thanks Kyle,
      Your report has made an okay January a GREAT January!
      And the very next day after all this process...


      Originally Posted by jordyhill View Post

      **UPDATE** 7 new clients!
      Triggerkg...PM sent
      Now that IS amazing. How much have you "collected" money wise, BTW. Thats "in the bag"?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509076].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author jordyhill
        I
        Originally Posted by John Durham View Post

        Now that IS amazing. How much have you "collected" money wise, BTW. Thats "in the bag"?
        Monday. Nobody likes them do they? Not me, usually. But today was an exception. "Work" for me today was leisurely driving around town and picking up the first 4 payments for new services. Paid in full. All I have to do now is deliver the products. If you want to know how much, think north of £2000. And I have another 3 to get this week, possibly more. Does that help you? What is so amazing? I used a free report to get new customers? And it required a relatively small effort on my part?

        There is a sack load of profit there I would not have had if it were not for Kyles report which he gave me Free Of Charge. Thanks again, Kyle.

        This is a great debate about cold calling. So is this something that has to happen in order to do business? I'm sure 95-97% of all my offline business comes from referrals.
        You can't beat that warm snug feeling when a new customer calls you up because another client recommended my service. It must be my customer service skills. Or my Irish charm. Nah can't be that, when I'm in Ireland, that's a lot less effective here.

        If you offer a service or product, and deliver it so that it exceeds their expectations, then you got a business that sells itself. Or at the very least, cuts down the amount of time you spend on the phone looking for custom.

        But this is just how I do business, referrals are already well warmed up by the time we get talking. And talking is a specialty of mine

        I'm not knocking anyone in the business of cold calling for one second, I'm a bit envious really, I could maybe drum up even more business. But I'm allergic to it, probably because I take such calls at home every day. Not everyone is a born salesperson. I have my doubts as to someone could learn, I tend to believe they're born with it. Maybe its Maybelline.
        Signature
        Total Web Solutions << Does what it says in the anchor text!
        Remember!..There are NO problems....ONLY solutions
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5519850].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    What I'm trying to explain is simple and has been blown completely out of proportion: software can help do a lot of things.

    If it takes you 10 hours to learn a piece of software, you shouldn't use it. The idea here is to run a report with this software while you're doing something else. When the report is done, you call or email people via the report. Is this not a targeted version of your methods?

    Still here for those that want to see what I'm doing.

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509073].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    John,

    It's cool that I'm not helping you...because you're obviously successful with what you do but what's the point of all this? You're looking at posts from people that I took care of. Please cut to the chase here.

    Are you offended by something I did?

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509133].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author John Durham
      Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

      John,

      It's cool that I'm not helping you...because you're obviously successful with what you do but what's the point of all this? You're looking at posts from people that I took care of. Please cut to the chase here.

      Are you offended by something I did?

      Kyle
      No. Just pointing out that you are SELLING SOMETHING... "Helping" is when you give valuable content for free that can stand on its own value without a purchase being required.

      The other we do in the WSO section.

      Not offended.


      How about this: Click my sig and see how easily a list can be generated. Go ahead.... then PM me if you want to be "helped" by that info.

      Honestly, telling people I have a lead generator helps no one unless they buy it. Even if I say Im trying to help them with my thread.

      Anyway, you are right. I am wasting time in here...

      Ps. You can tell from my weak voice on the vid that Im an old man... real old school.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509178].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
        Originally Posted by John Durham View Post

        No. Just pointing out that you are SELLING SOMETHING... "Helping" is when you give valuable content for free that can stand on its own value without a purchase being required.

        The other we do in the WSO section.

        Not offended.


        How about this: Click my sig and see how easily a list can be generated. Go ahead.... then PM me if you want to be "helped" by that info.

        Honestly, telling people I have a lead generator helps no one unless they buy it. Even if I say Im trying to help them with my thread.

        Anyway, you are right. I am wasting time in here...
        Your idea of what I'm doing is completely skewed. My goodness.
        Signature
        Need Help Growing Your Audience?
        Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
        Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509233].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author John Durham
          Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

          Your idea of what I'm doing is completely skewed. My goodness.


          uh.....okay.:rolleyes:

          Hey if I spent all that energy trying to develop a software to sell offliners, I'd want to spread the word too. No prob. Im out.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5509241].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author everge
    Hi Kyle, can you PM me unable as post count to low...Thanks Graeme
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5510179].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    To Shay and everyone else,

    I didn't intend on this being an "End-all-be-all" thread. I simply wanted to show a couple people what I was doing and how I'm doing it. WAY more people have inquired and I'm happy to show them what my breakthroughs are. Whether I'm "helping" by the standards of other Warriors or not, I'm not twisting anybodies arm or forcing them to PM me.

    "Having a tool doesn't mean clients magically fall into your lap" -- you couldn't be more right. It takes work. I don't know where this thread got so off-kilter but I was only sharing because of the power I see in the software. I'm seeing it do a lot of things quicker than other solutions. I wanted this to be an experience for others to see what's out there.

    This information will only help you if you plan to take action. If you don't want to take action, don't ask for the report. Furthermore, I'll ask that you give me your email address so I can send you the email with the sample report and more information on how to get a report for yourself. You're not going into a sales list.

    I hope this clears up the confusion and gets the thread back on track.

    Everyone that PM'd me yesterday, your reports are coming. Some of you, check your PM's as you didn't send your email.

    Regards,

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5512886].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author fbernar
    Love the title of this thread. lol
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5513409].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by fbernar View Post

      Love the title of this thread. lol
      Glad somebody finally said something about the title haha.
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5513950].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    Update:

    To everyone that has PM'd or emailed me, I have responded with the sample report and information for getting a hold of the software I'm using. As always, I can be contacted through this thread, by PM, or by email if you have my address. I won't post it here because the spiders will pick it up

    Hope my recommendations suit you well. I'm actually off to sell some of this information to a local company. They're interested in Contractor and Accountant information. The software brought back business names and emails so they're planning to use that to leverage a calling/emailing spree. I'll let everyone know how that goes as it transpires.

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5518050].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author joecarson1
    Do you need 40 posts to be able to pm? Kyle pm me so that I can get the info, thanks!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5523005].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by joecarson1 View Post

      Do you need 40 posts to be able to pm? Kyle pm me so that I can get the info, thanks!
      I think you need 50 to PM...PM is coming.

      Also, to everyone else: PM's are updated and should have the information submitted to your email.

      Client Update: I have a client that purchased some of the information I gathered from Places Scout, which is the software I'm using to run these reports. He's blown away by the report and furthermore, the calling he has done on the companies we targeted for him has landed their company several meetings, and two confirmed accounts!

      Mark Kabana did a great job on this software and his next scheduled update is the most exciting. Two words: Reputation Management

      Keep the PM's coming with emails so I can send you the sample. Still doing my part here!

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5525608].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author fontaval
    Hello Kyle,
    Just found the thread and i am very interested but i cant pm yet please could you pm me i would really like to try your report. Thanks
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5523963].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kmalikis
    Hey Kyle,

    What's this report about? i'd like to know. Also...love to chat sometime...i'm in the same shoes as you...except i am just about to hire 2 telemarketers/commissioned sales reps.

    Kam


    Originally Posted by KyleGolemMedia View Post

    I hate cold calling. The idea of it irks me.

    Anyway, with starting a mobile website design business, I knew that selling was inevitable. I have a couple guys helping in that department but I came across some region specific software that allows our mobile design company to go after companies that need our services within our area. One metric I have the ability to pull: does the potential client have a mobile website? Being able to answer this question before we even get on the phone is incredibly useful.

    Other information that comes to be really handy is seeing what their overall web presence is like. Being able to see what their Google Page Rank is, SEOmoz data, Social Metrics, and other types of info really helps when it comes to going after clients.

    I refuse to do another cold call because I have the tools to "warm up" before contacting my potential client. I have a system that leaves their jaw on the floor...I know more than they do about their own business. They see value in that from the moment I make contact.

    PM me if you're interested in a report. I wanted this thread to voice one thing: Many of you don't have to be cold calling. Start with good data on your clients and show them your value!

    Kyle
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5526522].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by kmalikis View Post

      Hey Kyle,

      What's this report about? i'd like to know. Also...love to chat sometime...i'm in the same shoes as you...except i am just about to hire 2 telemarketers/commissioned sales reps.

      Kam
      The report is a spreadsheet of locally-targeted businesses. It came from Places Scout, Mark Kabana's software. I love it.

      If you PM me, I can email the sample and talk to you more about it. I'm really passionate about his software.

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5533030].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author linkmetro
    Hey Kyle,

    This is your secret, Places Scout? Great software.

    Joe
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5533180].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    Hey Joe,

    Yeah, Places Scout is great! Love it. Hope you've been successful lately. This year should be a big one!

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5533547].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author IngeniousBastard
    Bottom line: The proper tools + TAKING ACTION = "Great success" (in Borat's voice, of course)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5540642].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author IngeniousBastard
    The bottom line: The proper tools + TAKING ACTION = "Great success" (in Borat's voice, of course)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5540647].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by Ingenious******* View Post

      The bottom line: The proper tools + TAKING ACTION = "Great success" (in Borat's voice, of course)
      Very well put. Even with the Borat touch

      "Give me your tears, Gypsy"


      Update: I've been leveraging the software to return business owner names and emails for a local agency I'm doing work with. They're using this targeted list in their Telemarketing department. This week they will be rolling out their campaign and I'll keep the boards posted on the progress. The information I gave them originally (100 businesses with a full report) got them a few meetings thus far. The list hasn't been worked yet but the agency is hopeful. The local reports are really serving a purpose.

      Hope everybody is doing well with their own methods. If you're interested in getting a sample report from Places Scout, shoot me a PM and I'll be sure to get it out to you

      To a great Sunday,

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5557091].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author caretaker
        Hi, Kyle, can't p.m you i'd like the report as well please, can you p.m me.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5558982].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ooteri
    Hello Kyle...another first time poster here. This sound like a very useful report, and I too would like to lay my hands on it if you don't mind. I think I can't send PMs becaaue I am new? Would you mind send me a PM so I can reply? Thanks
    Oti
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5559365].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by ooteri View Post

      Hello Kyle...another first time poster here. This sound like a very useful report, and I too would like to lay my hands on it if you don't mind. I think I can't send PMs becaaue I am new? Would you mind send me a PM so I can reply? Thanks
      Oti
      You're all set! Hope my information helps you If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm available on Skype quite often!

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5566891].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
    Warriors,

    I'm glad to see there's still interest in my thread! Everyone that has emailed or PM'd me has received my Local Report email.

    If you're interested, I'm still offering these up. If you can't PM, please send me an email and I will respond to it with the report.

    Thanks again...I really value the relationships I'm building as a result of this thread. It's awesome.

    Kyle
    Signature
    Need Help Growing Your Audience?
    Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
    Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5566059].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author davidbatchelor
    Hey Kyle,

    Could you please send me a copy of the report.

    Thanks,

    ~ David
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5567214].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author pipranger
    Hey Kyle

    Could you please PM me your email as I would also like to get a sample report.

    Many Thanks.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5570612].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Daret
    Yup, thats a nice idea !

    When you spend some time in researching about your customers, and then present the information to them, they are more willing to trust you more and then give you business !
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5571646].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author KyleGolemMedia
      Originally Posted by pipranger View Post

      Hey Kyle

      Could you please PM me your email as I would also like to get a sample report.

      Many Thanks.
      Coming right up!

      Originally Posted by Daret View Post

      Yup, thats a nice idea !

      When you spend some time in researching about your customers, and then present the information to them, they are more willing to trust you more and then give you business !
      It's amazing how few words can explain what a 78 reply thread hasn't seemed to do. Thanks for your post and yes, I agree with you

      Kyle
      Signature
      Need Help Growing Your Audience?
      Let an experienced Marketer help! PM me with project details.
      Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Facebook Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5578447].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author WayneMoore
    Thanks for the advice Kyle!

    What specific details you going in with other than whether they do/ don't have a mobile site? More importantly what is the difference in conversion/ response you've been getting with this data (if you don't mind me asking! )

    Cheers!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5579732].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author mojo1
    Hey there Kyle,

    Are you still accepting sample report request? I sent a pm to you regarding same.

    I look forward to hearing from you. This looks quite interesting.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5620576].message }}

Trending Topics