[Giveaway?] Call Script Critique - This Is No NEWBIE Script

42 replies
Yo! I haven't posted in a while on here because I've been working hard building my business and working for clients. Admittedly, not for the right price.

I've been doing everything myself. Going to chamber meetings, talking to business owners, trying to get referrals, etc.

Let me tell you it's not as easy as it looks to secure paying clients and upsell them and whatnot. Honestly, I don't even know how in the F*** some of these business owners are running profitable businesses. No one in their right mind should turn me down because I absolutely will make them more money than they spend with me. Even after selling value, they stop responding randomly. Cheap F***ers. lol.

Anyways, I have come to the conclusion that I need to be a WARRIOR. I'm not talking an "IM warrior from the warrior forum" I'm talking a f***ing WARRIOR. It's time to learn how to cold call for REAL and close sales over the phone. No more wasting time with non-action-taking-business-owners.

So basically, I'm going to show you the outline of the script I'm going to be using. On friday when I get paid I'm going to buy the SniperBotPro lead generator or I'm going to grab the gold membership over at the telemarketing forum which comes with access to a bajillion and a half leads or something like that.

I already have secured a couple clients. HVAC, custom sign design, and a dog breeder. I will be calling companies in those niches to stay focused.

Attention/Opening: Jason Kanigans "a little unsure" method
rebuttals with the gatekeeper if necessary (shouldn't be for 80% of the calls)

Attention/Opening with business owner: Is it cool if I take a quick minute to explain and you can decide if we should continue talking or not?

Interest (30 second commercial): Cool I'm Monte, I work for organizations in the area and typically am brought on board because companies are frustrated and upset that they're spending too much money advertising to bring in customers and not seeing a good return on investment. Also I help when i see someone is upset that their web site is failing to convert visitors into sales leads and when business owners are confused on how to follow-up with their past customers, ask for positive reviews online, and get more word of mouth referrals. Basically I solve the problems that help you grow your business, and turn normal customers into loyal ones who turn into virtual sales representatives, and help you expand your business. The reason for my call today is because I've been having a lot of success working with a ____ company from another city, and I've been able to make that owner a lot of money and get them a great online presence. Would you be open to some quick ideas on how I could help you solve these issues and put more money into your pocket?

rebuttals (f***in BOXING)

Desire: move into questioning phase where I ask about 13 questions. The first 5-6 questions are all tie downs where they have to say yes or they're a dimwit. The next 5-6 ask about their web site, if it'd be valuable to them if i added an extra 10-15 customers a month to their bottom line. After this question I say this: "I'm confident I can do that. In fact I'm doing double that for another ___ client in another city. What I do is very special and hard to find. I create a professional web systems online that your prospects fill out in exchange for a gift, usually a coupon, gift certificate, or an educational video. These prospects are put into your sales funnel and they are converted into paying customers. You'll be able to see the numbers and identify your hottest prospects at any given time."

Action: "I'm positive I'm going to be able to make you more money and grow your business. What I'm going to do is create you a demo web site that showcases the direct-response and back end follow-up systems I could use to help you in your business. There will be a few different options for the investment amount to move this project forward, based on a few factors. But first I want to show you what a real direct response web site looks like. One that will put cash into your pocket. Not one that you are just throwing away money on. So, I'll just need a few of your personal details to get in touch with you tomorrow and we will go over certain aspects of the new site and I'll show you how it'll make you more money and improve your business."

Then I clone one of my clients site with WP-twin, change the logo up and some of the contact info and other stuff on the site (real quick), and call them up the next day with a few different pricing options. One is just for the web site, like $499, then there are upsells like google places seo, regular SEO, PPC campaign, social media marketing, etc. etc. etc. I won't be charging a ridiculously high maintenance fee. Maybe $150 bucks to manage their email marketing campaigns and host the site. I live on my own but my bills only add up to like $750/month because I'm a very smart money manager. I already make more than that each month anyways!

So with that plan, obviously I will succeed if i just pick up the god blessed phone. I'm just running into two road blocks!

1. Where the hell do I get qualified leads?! I tried calling from Manta and they're like all wrong numbers! Maybe i'll buy that sniperbotpro or whatever before version 2 gets released.
2. What should I use as my phone for outgoing calls??? I want it to be cheap.

PS: I'll fill you guys in on my future plan to scale this up to a six figure business in another post.
#call #critique #giveaway #newbie #script
  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    BTW I found these resources.

    To accept payments (over the phone and in person): gopayment.com
    For leads, an affordable, unlimited source: infofree.com
    To check google places and other listings: getlisted.org

    Now I just need a calling solution. I still might buy sniperbotpro though instead of signing up for infofree and mixing with getlisted.org. I assume that sniperbotpro has the same leads as info free because they probably both scrape from yellowbook/yellowpages/manta
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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  • Profile picture of the author Eddie Spangler
    skype , magicjack, toktumi

    One of these will fit your calling needs
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    Promise Big.
    Deliver Bigger.
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  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    Toktumi looks promising. Thanks. Skype limits calls to 50 per day.
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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    • Profile picture of the author David Miller
      There's actually a ton of things that I could say about your script, but as I mentioned in another post, I no longer offer much in the way of opinion because too often the ops are too in love with their own ideas. It's as if they want applause even though they ask for a critique.

      Having said that, your attitude about what you plan to do is spot on. It's the right way to approach things, in fact in some cases, it's more than half the battle.

      The only things I'll say about your script are these things:

      I'm not a fan of Jason's "help me out" approach. I think it's a foolish way to begin a conversation, particularly for someone that seems as motivated and positive as you do. In addition, I've received calls like that, I have no time for someone when they call for MY help. Maybe it's the way I think of things, but to me it starts off by handing over the control to the person you're calling. Not something I would do.

      As far as your script goes, only two things. It's way way too long! But far more important, look how many times you say "I" "I'm" and "me". I started to count but lost track.

      Your prospects are only interested in themselves.

      However, I have absolutely no doubt you'll get it right and hit your goal!
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      The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
      -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
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      • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
        Originally Posted by David Miller View Post

        There's actually a ton of things that I could say about your script, but as I mentioned in another post, I no longer offer much in the way of opinion because too often the ops are too in love with their own ideas. It's as if they want applause even though they ask for a critique.

        Having said that, your attitude about what you plan to do is spot on. It's the right way to approach things, in fact in some cases, it's more than half the battle.

        The only things I'll say about your script are these things:

        I'm not a fan of Jason's "help me out" approach. I think it's a foolish way to begin a conversation, particularly for someone that seems as motivated and positive as you do. In addition, I've received calls like that, I have no time for someone when they call for MY help. Maybe it's the way I think of things, but to me it starts off by handing over the control to the person you're calling. Not something I would do.

        As far as your script goes, only two things. It's way way too long! But far more important, look how many times you say "I" "I'm" and "me". I started to count but lost track.

        Your prospects are only interested in themselves.

        However, I have absolutely no doubt you'll get it right and hit your goal!
        I agree with you... I'm not a fan of the script at all... BUT..

        here is the big shocker...

        If you are on the phone and you're dialing numbers, you are going to make sales no matter what your script is LOL.

        I can only wish for the day where we can really begin to dig deeper into that stuff, but 90% of the forum is too scared to pick up the phone.
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  • Profile picture of the author vndnbrgj
    Agreed, not a fan of the script.

    However, I am a huge fan of Sniper Bot Pro.
    As a matter of fact, I just used it today looking for roofers.
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    Life Begins At The End Of Your Comfort Zone
    - Neale Donald Wilson -
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  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    Damn. Ask and ye' shall receive.

    How do you guys feel about the closer?
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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  • Profile picture of the author John Durham
    Awesome post but. ' M-ore w-hite-spa-ace p-lease....n-eed white s-pace. c-ant b -reath...'
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  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    Yeah I type hecka fast so I get carried away

    I gotta work on shortening the script because I can already see myself taking way too long to say all this sh*t
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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  • Profile picture of the author econnors
    I like your post and I actually use the "help me out" bit for residential cold calling for insurance leads. It opens the door to more open communication and lets you eliminate the assholes (the ones who aren't your market anyway) right off the bat. Natural human nature is to help someone in need. Anyone who doesn't is going against the grain (most likely) and is not someone you want to deal with at the end of the day...
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  • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
    Rocket man... is your goal 2K sales by may 1st? Have you just started out?
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    • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
      Originally Posted by iAmNameLess View Post

      Rocket man... is your goal 2K sales by may 1st? Have you just started out?
      I've got a couple clients that came from randomly talking to biz owners and ****. No real sales process has ever been in place.

      My goal is $2k utilizing a sales process, approaching business owners that I would have never come in contact with had I not used a strategy.

      I'd say I already have at least $2k in sales in my "pipeline" that will be closed by may 1st but I will not count those. I'm talking cold calls and emails. To practice cold call closing I'm gonna call businesses not in my local area. Once I get more comfortable then I can start killing it by moving into my local area, closing for the appointment, and rolling over to their place of BIZ
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      Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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      • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
        Originally Posted by Rocket Media View Post

        I've got a couple clients that came from randomly talking to biz owners and ****. No real sales process has ever been in place.

        My goal is $2k utilizing a sales process, approaching business owners that I would have never come in contact with had I not used a strategy.

        I'd say I already have at least $2k in sales in my "pipeline" that will be closed by may 1st but I will not count those. I'm talking cold calls and emails. To practice cold call closing I'm gonna call businesses not in my local area. Once I get more comfortable then I can start killing it by moving into my local area, closing for the appointment, and rolling over to their place of BIZ
        That's what I do.. Pretty easy to do in my opinion, just takes persistence. If I could walk someone through it, I would have them do what you're doing, of course with a change of script LOL. But the script will evolve and come more naturally to you.

        2K in a few weeks is pretty easy to do... you can easily do 2K/week by yourself.

        It's good you're setting a very realistic goal.. you should be able to conquer it and move on. 2K now.... make the next goal 5K and keep adjusting your goals.

        Never be happy and satisfied where you are, that only leads to a crumbled empire.
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  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Guys, I use the "little unsure" technique every day. I used it yesterday to be immediately put through to the president of a new potential supplier...an $85 million company. Let's see you get the prez of an $85 million company on the line in 30 seconds.

    So say whatever you want. It's a proven method from a proven sales training franchise. I shared it here for free. You can go pay for it if you want. Really concerned about the 'tude of some of the posters...your tone is pretty unfriendly. I shared this for free.

    It's not a silly way to begin a conversation. You don't have to sound like an idiot. I have hundreds of recorded calls including the one I shared on my site in which it instantly gets me past the gatekeeper and through to the right person...or on my way to the right person.

    So you go fight with the gatekeeper if you want. I'm gonna use psychology and get sent through with goodwill every time.

    As for the rest of the script, a caution to the OP:

    You are trying to SELL too soon. The purpose of the first part, the pain points, is to QUALIFY your prospect.

    David, I suspect the script doesn't work for you because you're a New Yorker. Up there, you HAVE to be in-your-face pushy about "This is the greatest thing ever and you're an idiot if you have anything else," or they won't listen to you. But the US is like 4 or 5 different countries all mashed together and the cultures in each area are different.

    The "You" part is in the pain points. Those typical reasons to do business with you, when working, resonate with prospects...they're experiencing them, too. You get thunderclap credibility.

    And the script IS too long. Yes! But we start that way. After 2-3 days you figure out which pain points work and which don't (cut 'em, replace with ones prospects share with you), and get 2 that work every time. It's a process...and I know people want a magic bullet and don't wanna do any actual work...

    The thing is, after you put in the first week, you have a script that will get that niche's decision makers' attention EVERY SINGLE TIME.
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    • Profile picture of the author David Miller
      Please don't make assumptions about New York, New Yorkers, or how business is done here. I've lived and worked all over the US.

      The fact of the matter is that the US is divided along 7 cultural lines. There have actually been several books written about it. Perhaps in New York cab drivers and truck drivers unloading at the docks are in your face, but professionals expect to deal with other professionals.

      As far as this "unsure" method; simply because it's a system that has been paid for by many people, it doesn't make it the holy grail of sales. By the same token, if you offer to share something, don't take offense if some people take exception to its value. If you take offense to this, am I too assume that you've never lost a sale? Thin skin and sales are not a good combination.

      In fairness, here's just one reason I don't like this system of being unsure. I'm going to go out on a limb here and guess the majority of us aren't pitching major corporations as you say you do.

      In my world, I never know who is picking up the phone. Many times if it's not the owner, it's someone high up the food chain. I have something at my fingertips called Google, and I use it to KNOW as much about my prospect as possible. It's called "intelligent selling" and people pay for that information also.

      As I said in my previous post, if the first impression I give someone is that I am the one looking for help, and that's the DM, I just handed control over. There are about 20 other reasons that I don't like it, but I haven't had my coffee yet which would also explain the nasty tone here.
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      The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
      -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
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  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    I'll be honest I'm using Jason's method of being unsure because I'm not a seasoned, grungy, rough-it-up, hardcore, veteran sales professional.

    The only sales I've ever done is selling puppies at a pet store, selling Clear 4g, and selling myself to various attractive women in high school

    Those were all laydowns. I don't know how to go after the sale and sell to people who aren't ready to buy NOW. Once I make a couple grand... I'll probably buy into some sales training. Locally and online.

    Anyways. I have the 8 hour "job" to go to today :/ I'll probably send some emails out tonight and grind down my script with sandpaper (because in my eyes it was impossible to shorten lol). I don't work until night time tomorrow so my goal is to hit the lines tomorrow. If I don't, physical punishment to myself.

    I'm going to send you guys PMs I have a question.
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Rocket Media, I use the method all the time. Not because I'm unsure or inexperienced, but because it works. Again, you don't have to sound like a bumbling fool. I wish I could install skype and pamela at work so I could record more of when I use it...but IT has blocked permissions for the proles to install anything. I have many, many recordings of which I shared one that probably a thousand people have listened to.

    In your normal voice you say "I'm not sure who I should speak with...maybe you can help me. I normally talk with the person who is (having this kind of trouble) in (this field). Do you know who would have that under their umbrella?"

    The gatekeeper will forward you to whoever they think is best. You don't sound dumb. You are not giving up control. You are getting control.

    For those who don't know, this takes you away from the machinegunner attacker-defender setup that calling and asking for someone by name creates. "What's this about?" Never get asked that, and if I did, I'd repeat what I just said.

    Then you repeat the same darn thing to whoever answers the phone.

    "Hi, I'm not sure we should be speaking." This is an AMAZING thing to say to get people's attention. You have to get people out of whatever they were doing before you called, and onto the call. Not continuing to read emails, do scheduling, etc. "Switchboard put me through to you...I'm looking for the person who (has this kind of trouble) in (this field). But I'm not sure if you have this under your umbrella..."

    If they are not the right person, they'll send you on, and you can say you were talking to John or whoever instead of the gatekeeper and repeat.

    Or you can fight with the gatekeeper.

    As for online research, I find people use it as a time-waster to avoid making calls. It is simply not necessary. Let me ask you this: what do companies put on their websites?
    • Their name/rank/serial #
    • Their competitive advantage, if they've bothered to figure out what it is
    • "We're great"
    • ...(more fluff)
    • Their biggest problem(s)?

    No. They do not put their problems up on their websites. Yet that is why you're calling--to find out if what you offer is a solution to a big problem they're experiencing. And the only way to get to problems is to ask live human beings about their world...and start peeling the layers of the onion (people will not openly tell you the whole truth or even the truth at all at the start of your relationship). It is faster to simply get on the phone, dial the main switchboard, and ask for the right person than it is to do this "research." I've been doing this for a long time. In the past, I've researched a ridiculous amount of companies...read the annual reports of public firms, looking for ways to help...drafted and sent beautiful proposals about why they should use our services.

    Not a darn thing like that ever worked to get me a sale. Getting on the phone and starting a call did. If you're not trained in this method or are only interested in transactional selling, then of course it won't seem right to you, and I can understand that.
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  • Profile picture of the author payoman
    Just gotta say, after using Jasons script, it's completely true in my experience also.

    I just plain never got asked that terrible question 'what's this in regard to?'

    You only EVER get asked that question if they get a whiff of 'sales call'. Do you think they would ask someone they assumed was a paying customer/client 'what this is in regard to?'

    Probably never, because 90% of customers just want one thing : the service. Not the owner.
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  • Profile picture of the author kenmichaels
    kaniganj, as sales people we all know "one size does not fit all"

    We also know everyone has the own opinion and they are entitled to it.

    I also know if your HALF as good as you say you are, If you have HALF the knowledge you say you do, then that "unsure" method is NOT your ONLY way of doing things.... and you know that.

    So i am guessing the only reason your acting upset, is because your selling your services and by David saying, he doesn't like that method ( btw, it does have its place, but i don't like it or use it either ) you feel like your going to lose sales.
    or "face" or whatever.

    I am glad you take the time to help people sell. A lot of people here can use your help. But you need to ease up on the pitch fest man.

    We aren't all newbies and to some of us, you are not the holy grail.

    Because its just none of my business, I have kept my mouth shut as i have watched you try to turn this sub forum into your private piggy bank.

    However your posts are pretty condescending, and are getting hard to ignore.

    I DON'T do sales training, i don't sell sale manuals, and i don't pimp my superman
    sales skills all over this board, yet i get flooded with PMS, emails, skype for help.

    The reason i mention that, is because im assuming that's what you want to happen for yourself and its not happening for you as much as you want it to.

    Do you think maybe its because your posts have the "feel", that your only here
    to take peoples money, and NOT really help them?
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    Selling Ain't for Sissies!
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  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Ken, I have given away TONS of techniques, info and help to people for free. Come on. That is really unfair and inaccurate. Not sure where you're reading I'm upset. I clarified. I do not see a "pitch-fest." You don't have to like it, but for people who aren't trained in this method and who don't use it to say it doesn't work doesn't make sense to me.

    I have never said I'm the holy grail. There are a lot of people out there who have no idea what to say or how to say it to start calls off right. I gave the method away for free.

    I just added even more examples using this technique to the example page linked to in my last post.

    Finally, I'm driving 3 hours a day to and from work and spending 9 hours there; I hardly have time to post here. In 20 minutes I'm on my first of two 2-hour coaching calls. I don't have much time to sell things here.
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    • Profile picture of the author David Miller
      @kaniganj - Jason, there are dozens of forum members that share ideas, techniques, and methods. Very few make a point of saying "look what I've done", we just do it. People can take it or leave it, or hit the thanks button.

      To date, no one has made reference to a recent thread full of praise about your last WSO and the unusual amount of praise you received from people with unusually low post counts. Nor has anyone mentioned the "bumps" that thread received. Frankly, if not for the fact that you have contributed as much as you have, I'm certain that someone might have reported that thread as blatant self-promotion.

      You seem to think there are only two ways to conduct business. Your way, and the wrong way. You mention that people who do research are time wasters. I know that was directed at me in relation to my mention of intelligent selling. You make assumptions about the way business is done in New York, yet, you've never been here. You label sales in any other way but your own, as being confrontational.

      First of all, intelligent sales simply means knowing who the players in an organization are, where they are positioned in the market, and getting a general idea of their marketing strategy. Do you think this takes longer than a minute?

      If I'm going to contact a law firm, how long do you think it takes to find out how many partners and associates the firm has or what areas of practice they focus on. Sorry, but I would rather call knowing who to ask for and why.

      You tend to assume that there is no middle ground between friendly and unassuming and pushy. There is a vast middle ground, generally referred to as professional.

      I don't want to pile on or be mean about this. I like you and I appreciate the information you share. But there's no need to constantly let everyone know about how much you share as if people should feel guilty.

      No one is saying your idea doesn't work. I'm sure it's a fit for some and not for others. Those of us who don't care for it aren't necessarily bulls in a china shop. It's out there along with other ideas, so let's move on.
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      The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
      -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
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  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Thanks, David. Just for the record, I do not believe that there's my way and the wrong way. And I can't speak for what people say or do ;-) but those are real people. Which thread is that, BTW?

    The guy I just talked with said he's never posted, though he's had an account for some time, for example. Some people are "lurkers".

    What do you think about my point that people don't put their biggest problem(s) on their websites for us to find out about?
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    • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
      Hmmmmm, quite an interesting thread indeed

      As a long time "phone man", thought I'd throw my hat into the ring as well with some thoughts...

      Jason, your "confusion" tactic seems novel enough, however, as a few other posters pointed out, methinks it might actually be detrimental to your sales efforts. Here's why...

      Aside from their other job duties, most receptionists are schooled by the Owner/Manager of the business to screen calls for solicitors. Fortunately, most of them aren't very good at this, but, that's a topic for another discussion. Here's the point though...

      By you going in and using this unsure, confused bit of theater, you're opening up WAY too many cans of worms. Let me show you how...

      Your way: "Yes, hi, I'm wondering if you can help me. I'm not really sure who I should be speaking to but, maybe you can help point me in the right direction."

      Secretary: "Well who are you?"

      Your way: "Jason with Kanigan Technologies."

      Secretary: "What is it you're looking to accomplish? Maybe then I can put you in touch with the proper person."

      Your way: "I provide website solutions to businesses in the food sector....."

      You're now waving a bright red neon flag that reads SALESMAN in capital letters. Not good. Aside from the secretary being hesitant to put a salesman through to one of the higher-up's, she also may legitimately not know who to put you through to. You'll then be transferred to the wrong person where you once again have to go through your whole spiel.

      My way: (In a relaxed, casual tone) "Yes, hi, David, please."

      Secretary: "Sure, may I ask who's calling?"

      My way: "Yeah, just tell him it's Joe."

      Secretary: "Gimme one second while I put you on hold."

      That's it, easy as pie No funny business, no theatrics, no wasting time. Direct.

      Now, does this mean my way always works? Absolutely not. I too have to deal with the bitchy, nosy, "Mayor of the office" secretaries throughout the day. Many of whom DO ask me what I'm calling in reference to. After giving them my response, I'm either put through to the desired party or screened further - at which point I terminate the call. Most times however, I'm put through to the person I called seeking. Why?

      Because I assumed that I knew that party through the use of my words and my tone. So the receptionist then assumes it too

      Sometimes it's the old school, simple stuff that works the best

      As to your premise that a New Yorker needs to be more "in your face" when in a sales scenario...that simply isn't true. It is broad based, inaccurate, way out of the ballpark advice. How do I know this? Simple...

      1. I am a salesman, 2. NYC is my playground.

      ANY experienced, qualified salesman that has the "chops", knows that the old-style, aggressive, boiler room techniques of the 70's & 80's no longer work. Period. That's true whether you live in NYC or Tuscaloosa.

      Please note: the purpose of my reply wasn't to nit-pick or attack anyone. Sales, as with any other artistic medium (painting, acting, writing, etc.) is WIDELY open to interpretation. What works for one person may not work for someone else. Each of us has his or her own unique, individual style & technique. However, when I see something posted that is WAY off base, I feel it is my right to chime in set the record straight

      As to the original poster, like others have mentioned, your script needs to be totally re-done, IMO. W-A-Y too wordy, not structured correctly, etc., etc., etc. If I could PM, I'd gladly shoot you some advice. However, since I cannot, feel free to ask any questions you have and I can provide some pointers.
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      • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
        In my haste, I forgot to touch upon another piece of advice that was thrown out there, that I ALSO believe to be inaccurate; That there is no useful information that can be gleaned from a business's website.

        Quite the contrary. There is a WEALTH of information online for the saleperson who takes the time to use it appropriately to their advantage. Instead of pointing out the 1,001 different possibilities, let me share with you just one "Golden Nugget." That way, you appreciate it a WHOLE lot more, aaaaaand I don't have to sit here and write an hour and a half post

        A LARGE part of selling - especially over the telephone - is about building rapport. Trust. Whatever you'd like to call it.

        Now, what I like to do is, as an example; say I'm calling an Attorney. I will go to Mr. Attorney's website and look for a section called "Attorney Profile." I will then read that section and write down some cliff notes...

        Born in Brooklyn

        Went to St. John's University

        Married

        Likes Scuba diving

        Etc., etc., etc. Then...

        Somewhere in my conversation with Mr. Attorney, I will casually mention one of those little cliff notes. And BOY, how does that make the conversation take on a whole new life!!! Why?

        People LOVE to talk. Especially about themselves. So now, Mr. Attorney and myself start having a conversation. Like two fellas talking over the fence in their backyard. Why is this important, you ask? Simple young grasshopper...

        1. It brings barriers/defenses down

        2. The prospect sees you as more of a friend, NOT a salesperson

        3. A person gets to unload and take their mind off of their busy day

        4. Helps to build trust

        Need I go on? Surely, you get the point

        All from using some random, trivial piece of information I culled from the prospects website. However, this "trivial" piece of information helps to put BIG dollars into my pockets $$$

        BTW, don't just take my word for it. Use it. Try it. Just be real. Don't come across as superficial. This is where the skill part comes in - the talent. However, it CAN be learned to some degree if you just put the practice in.

        And remember, this is just ONE application of how to use information you find.

        So, yes, DO use the web (or any other miscellaneous source of info) to help with your sales calls. Just don't use it as a crutch. Don't let it hinder your daily dials. Don't think the information itself is going to close the sale. It is your talent and the application of the information which will make the cash register sing

        P.S. - You can use this little jewel for almost any business or type of individual you're calling. Just look hard enough for the information and use it creatively.

        P.P.S. - Don't just shoot into a random spiel about the cliff notes. It needs to be "weaved" into the conversation somehow. For example; "I saw on your website that you're from Brooklyn. Me to. Whereabouts?" In almost ALL instances, I'd only advise to do this somewhere during the middle to latter part of your presentation. You get the point
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      • Profile picture of the author RedShifted
        Originally Posted by The Sales Guy View Post

        ANY experienced, qualified salesman that has the "chops", knows that the old-style, aggressive, boiler room techniques of the 70's & 80's no longer work. Period. That's true whether you live in NYC or Tuscaloosa.
        The rest of your post was somewhat on point but this is purely bs and I have no idea where you came to that conclusion.

        In fact I could even make a list of business's around me using the boiler room approach right now and guess what? They're still making a killing with the strategy.

        Here is one for you, Total Remodeling in Union NJ. Made $400,000 grand last month in sales and this is how their 7 cold callers sell every system they sell.

        You want another? RenewEN also located in NJ.

        You want another? Vulcan Waterproofing in NJ.

        I can name about 10 more off the top of my head if it would make you happy.

        ALL these companies use the boiler room approach and have tons of disgruntled reviews all over the internet. Total has already been sued too and they still continue to use the technique simply due to how profitable it still is. Even with all the negative reviews they get, they are still able to sell far more than business's who are not using boiler room strategies.

        There are pros and cons to everything a person does.

        Just please don 't tell me business'es aren't using them. These places are able to get so much business so fast that they wind up relocating to different areas to saturate new markets. Total by themselves has done florida, georgia, and is now running this strategy in NJ. They will be around for as long as they want to be around and even though I despise the owner the guy can sell more than everyone in this thread combined. What you said is a complete myth. Just because you don't use it yourself doesn't mean tons of business's still aren't doing it.

        -Red
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        • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
          Originally Posted by RedShifted View Post

          The rest of your post was somewhat on point but this is purely bs and I have no idea where you came to that conclusion.

          In fact I could even make a list of business's around me using the boiler room approach right now and guess what? They're still making a killing with the strategy.

          Here is one for you, Total Remodeling in Union NJ. Made $400,000 grand last month in sales and this is how their 7 cold callers sell every system they sell.

          You want another? RenewEN also located in NJ.

          You want another? Vulcan Waterproofing in NJ.

          I can name about 10 more off the top of my head if it would make you happy.

          ALL these companies use the boiler room approach and have tons of disgruntled reviews all over the internet. Total has already been sued too and they still continue to use the technique simply due to how profitable it still is. Even with all the negative reviews they get, they are still able to sell far more than business's who are not using boiler room strategies.

          There are pros and cons to everything a person does.

          Just please don 't tell me business'es aren't using them. These places are able to get so much business so fast that they wind up relocating to different areas to saturate new markets. Total by themselves has done florida, georgia, and is now running this strategy in NJ. They will be around for as long as they want to be around and even though I despise the owner the guy can sell more than everyone in this thread combined. What you said is a complete myth. Just because you don't use it yourself doesn't mean tons of business's still aren't doing it.

          -Red
          Red, I think we're talking apples & oranges, here. Let me explain...

          If you mean "boiler room" by;

          * Having 50 dialers on the sales floor

          * Being a bit on the "crafty" side with their presentation

          * Using a direct, no-nonsense sales approach

          Etc., etc., etc. Yes, by all means this works. And THIS isn't what I was speaking about.

          Rather, what I WAS speaking in reference to, was;

          * Companies that outright lie or use deceptive practices to make sales

          * Companies selling dubious products and/or services

          * Companies that badger, beat-down & berate prospects into submission in order to get a sale

          THIS way doesn't work anymore. And I will stand on that statement push, shove or otherwise, buddy. Why?

          It's not about the sales! Anyone can make money doing this. That's a no-brainer. Rather...

          It's about NOT going away on a luxury vacation to federal prison, it's about NOT treating the customer like a rag doll, it's about NOT taking your customers for granted aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand being able to sell to them OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN...NOT JUST ONCE Do you REALLY think a boiler room operation can accomplish this?!?! If so, I want some of what you just smoked, lol.

          In closing, FYI, I come from the boiler room world, my friend. Hell, I probably devised half of the **** these "companies" are using today on the telephone. And I made a LOT of bread doing so. However, those were the times. They aren't anymore. The times they have a changed.

          If you truly believe that a business can grow and prosper LONG TERM using boiler room techniques from yesteryear, I got a WSO to sell ya
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      • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
        Originally Posted by The Sales Guy View Post

        Hmmmmm, quite an interesting thread indeed

        As a long time "phone man", thought I'd throw my hat into the ring as well with some thoughts...

        Jason, your "confusion" tactic seems novel enough, however, as a few other posters pointed out, methinks it might actually be detrimental to your sales efforts. Here's why...

        Aside from their other job duties, most receptionists are schooled by the Owner/Manager of the business to screen calls for solicitors. Fortunately, most of them aren't very good at this, but, that's a topic for another discussion. Here's the point though...

        By you going in and using this unsure, confused bit of theater, you're opening up WAY too many cans of worms. Let me show you how...

        Your way: "Yes, hi, I'm wondering if you can help me. I'm not really sure who I should be speaking to but, maybe you can help point me in the right direction."

        Secretary: "Well who are you?"

        Your way: "Jason with Kanigan Technologies."

        Secretary: "What is it you're looking to accomplish? Maybe then I can put you in touch with the proper person."

        Your way: "I provide website solutions to businesses in the food sector....."

        You're now waving a bright red neon flag that reads SALESMAN in capital letters. Not good. Aside from the secretary being hesitant to put a salesman through to one of the higher-up's, she also may legitimately not know who to put you through to. You'll then be transferred to the wrong person where you once again have to go through your whole spiel.

        My way: (In a relaxed, casual tone) "Yes, hi, David, please."

        Secretary: "Sure, may I ask who's calling?"

        My way: "Yeah, just tell him it's Joe."

        Secretary: "Gimme one second while I put you on hold."

        That's it, easy as pie No funny business, no theatrics, no wasting time. Direct.

        Now, does this mean my way always works? Absolutely not. I too have to deal with the bitchy, nosy, "Mayor of the office" secretaries throughout the day. Many of whom DO ask me what I'm calling in reference to. After giving them my response, I'm either put through to the desired party or screened further - at which point I terminate the call. Most times however, I'm put through to the person I called seeking. Why?

        Because I assumed that I knew that party through the use of my words and my tone. So the receptionist then assumes it too

        Sometimes it's the old school, simple stuff that works the best

        As to your premise that a New Yorker needs to be more "in your face" when in a sales scenario...that simply isn't true. It is broad based, inaccurate, way out of the ballpark advice. How do I know this? Simple...

        1. I am a salesman, 2. NYC is my playground.

        ANY experienced, qualified salesman that has the "chops", knows that the old-style, aggressive, boiler room techniques of the 70's & 80's no longer work. Period. That's true whether you live in NYC or Tuscaloosa.

        Please note: the purpose of my reply wasn't to nit-pick or attack anyone. Sales, as with any other artistic medium (painting, acting, writing, etc.) is WIDELY open to interpretation. What works for one person may not work for someone else. Each of us has his or her own unique, individual style & technique. However, when I see something posted that is WAY off base, I feel it is my right to chime in set the record straight

        As to the original poster, like others have mentioned, your script needs to be totally re-done, IMO. W-A-Y too wordy, not structured correctly, etc., etc., etc. If I could PM, I'd gladly shoot you some advice. However, since I cannot, feel free to ask any questions you have and I can provide some pointers.
        Did you listen to all of the Live audio recordings I provided about using this method? I never got asked the questions you asked. It has nothing to do with being "confused."

        Most people have no idea how to open a call. I provided this method for free, with live examples. Haven't seen anyone else provide live anything of what they do. It's fast and it works.
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        • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
          Originally Posted by kaniganj View Post

          Did you listen to all of the Live audio recordings I provided about using this method? I never got asked the questions you asked. It has nothing to do with being "confused."
          No, I did not, Jason. However, I would certainly welcome the chance to do so, one day.

          Again, just so we're clear...

          No harm, no foul. I wasn't trying to start a fire. Just pointing out the pitfalls one might face in using the method you highlighted.

          If it works for you, super. I myself though wouldn't even consider using that approach, nor would I advise anyone else to.

          But, as pointed out above, if that's what works for YOU, If YOU are getting the results you claim from using that method, then obviously nobody is going to talk you out of using it
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  • Profile picture of the author RedShifted
    /\ OMG I get to see it on the service end as I use to do installations (we still do actually I don't think our business will ever stop 100%) for a few of these boiler room business's it is not pretty to deal with.

    Just a couple weeks ago we went in to install radiant barrier, insulation and ventilation, total cost of materials was $800, guess how much Total sold the job for? $11,000!

    We do A LOT of jobs like this. What happens is the homeowners usually realize they were ripped off a few days after I'm done with the install side of things. Problem is the contract is worded so well I've seen numerous homeowners already higher lawyers and they haven't been able to do a thing about it.

    Afterall, it is kinda the homeowners fault. These companies are so good at building value using high pressure sales techniques, that by the time the homeowners realize whats going on its too late.

    Our business gets a lot of work subcontracted to us by these so called boiler room business's, we have had to put up with A LOT of crap due to it, and so for the last 2 weeks have not been taking any more jobs from these companies.

    What happens however is things get so slow that we eventually have no other option then to accept the leads, and then its back to dealing with the bs that comes along with them.

    I can tell you though, I get to see some pretty crazy things. It blows my mind how some of these sales guys are selling jobs as high as they do. One side of me finds it reprehensible, another side of me finds it pretty incredible.
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  • Profile picture of the author RedShifted
    /\ Ok I'm still a bit fuzzy about where the line is drawn if a company is selling completely fraudulent services than no I have not been seeing that. I do get to see these business's overpromise/overdeliver/and divulge various lies about what a service can actually do for the homeowner.

    For energy audits they will say something like the homeowner can qualify for a grant, just to get them to call, then when they call they say they don't qualify due to x reason.. when they knew there was actually no grant in the first place.

    Or they will lie and tell the homeowner they can expect a change in their bills in 24 hours, when that simply is not true. They use fake exagerated statistics to sell a lot of their services and thats where we get the brunt of all our trouble from. I know they lie a lot, but it still doesn't seem quite as bad as what you mentioned.

    So maybe we are talking apples and oranges. What you're talking about sounds closer to Anthony Robbison type stuff. =]
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  • Profile picture of the author Rocket Media
    Sweet discussion here guys!

    I'm definitely going to practice using jasons technique but I'm also going to be using the "go-right-at-it" technique mixed in. If they aren't really interested then NEXT becuase I don't want to waste time convincing someone when I could be uncovering people who want to buy now.

    "The sales guy" do you have any experience selling web sites and marketing consulting?
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    Local Client ARMAGEDDON Free Facebook Group: KILLER new local client consulting education group. Watch my live stream: Listen to me COLD CALL to sell/rent my Exterminator website. Join the Facebook group for the link and to watch past Live Prospecting replays. I share my spreadsheets, Powerpoints, contracts, and other files so you can learn how to CLOSE DEALS!
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    • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
      Originally Posted by Rocket Media View Post

      Sweet discussion here guys!

      I'm definitely going to practice using jasons technique but I'm also going to be using the "go-right-at-it" technique mixed in. If they aren't really interested then NEXT becuase I don't want to waste time convincing someone when I could be uncovering people who want to buy now.

      "The sales guy" do you have any experience selling web sites and marketing consulting?
      Minimal. However, not for a lack of trying. I have my hands full enough running my publishing business

      If it can be sold over the telephone though, I can sell it.

      Your script is just too scattered. Too wordy. Not structured. I strongly suggest starting from scratch. I can throw a few suggestions your way for sure, however, putting together a WORKING sales pitch from A to Z is a monstorous task. It needs to done though. If selling over the phone is going to make up the bulk of your revenue, the script itself needs to be tighter than a 16 year old virgins asshole.

      Let's start with something really, really basic that I'm surprised nobody else mentioned...

      DO NOT use the word "cool" over the telephone. Ever. I commend you for trying to inject your personality into the script ~ which is EXACTLY what you want to do ~ however, to a certain point. And using the word cool goes beyond that point

      In general, try and lose any slang or lingo when selling over the phone. Why?

      I can go on and on with a million reasons why you shouldn't, however, here's the simplest...

      It comes across as very low~brow. When selling, you really want to try and control the conversation...and langauge like cool isn't going to help you.

      That's all for today, school is officially dismissed
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      • Profile picture of the author David Miller
        @Terry Gory - The language you use in some instances is of no consequence. However, certain professions expect to do business in a fashion that they are comfortable with.

        A DJ is not an Attorney or a Doctor. In many ways, selling is acting. If you want to sell a DJ, you need to act like one. Likewise, if you want to sell an Attorney, you need to act like one.
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        The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.
        -- FRANK SINATRA, quoted in The Way You Wear Your Hat
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      • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
        Originally Posted by Terry Gorry View Post

        There are 2 problems with this quote:
        1. it comes across as incredibly arrogant ("That's all for today, school is officially dismissed") and
        2. it is BS.
        I sold a website to a DJ two weeks ago looking to get more wedding gigs etc..



        I may have used the word "cool" in the course of our chat. It certainly didn't diminish my credibility or come across as "low brow".


        "Cool" is a word that has entered into the normal lexicon of every day language for millions of people worldwide. Using it in the appropriate situation will enhance, not damage, your chances of genuine empathy with your potential client.


        And empathy is the most powerful tool you can have when speaking to prospects..but that is a discussion for another day.
        Terry
        Terry, first, you need to stop thinking so much

        The "schools out" line was my attempt at being a bit lighthearted...you know, humorous. Take a look at some of my previous posts, all have a bit of funny built in.

        Second, I don't know how long you've been selling PROFESSIONALLY for, or, what constitutes sales ability in your part of the world, however, I can assure you 110% that in the context that the OP is using the word cool, it isn't appropriate.

        Let us use some strategic thinking for a second, shall we...

        Imagine speaking to a professional (Physician, Attorney, or business owner) that you are hoping to turn into a PAYING CLIENT. Someone that will give you their hard earned money.

        Next, imagine you ask a question such as; "Is this, Joe Morgan I'm speaking to?" And the prospect answers yes. You then reply with; "Cool, my name is Monty".

        Sound professional? I'd be pretty worried if I was calling an Attorney to give him my business and he was peppering his speech with the word cool. But, maybe that's just me.

        Just so we're clear...

        In and of itself, the word cool isn't harmful. For instance, if a prospect told you that he just one ten million dollars in the lottery, sure, saying cool (even though I wouldn't use that term) isn't the end of the world. However...

        Again, look at the context the OP is using the word in. Every other word is cool. He's using it in his opening for crying out loud! TERRIBLE!

        I don't know who you are or what your sales experience is, Terry, however, if you can defend using slang as a tool on the telephone, best of luck in your future endeavors...cause you're gonna need it

        P.S. - Selling a DJ a website "two weeks ago" does not a salesman make.
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  • Profile picture of the author Creativegirl
    Admittedly I don't do cold calling but I can tell you the "I'm unsure..." essentially asking for their help is a proven opener in building relationships and obtaining information with greater ease. It also helps you establish a natural (unscripted) rapor.
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  • Profile picture of the author The Sales Guy
    @David Miller - David, you happen to be 100% correct The technique (as we both know) is called "mirroring". However, I didn't feel the need to touch upon that because...

    1. It is an advanced technique more suitable for someone with a bit more experience

    2. IMO, I'm guessing MOST of us here on the forum aren't selling to DJ's. Rather, we're trying to land small biz owners, Physicians, Attorney's, CPA's, etc. - PROFESSIONALS - as clients

    @Terry Gorry - Terry, the advice you are dispensing is just plain WRONG. Period! Furthermore, it could seriously hamper someone's ability to put food on the table for them and their family. So, please do know what you're talking about before defending such ill-suited practices.

    P.S. - I challenge you to find one consultant/trainer/sales pro who would encourage the use of such jargon in the sales process.
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    • Profile picture of the author jimbo13
      Terry

      You are in Ireland, I am in England.

      Surely you must appreciate that what David and Sales Guy say amongst others eg John Durham, Iamnameless, Ken Michaels is much more suited to this side of the pond than the complete nonsense you see others putting forth.

      ie Be professional and get to the point of why you are calling.

      I used to employ hundreds of sales reps and they all had a script and I can tell you the word 'cool' was not in it at all. Or indeed any other slang.

      That doesn't mean that any rep wouldn't have used slang terms in the context of whom they were talking to at some point in the discussion.

      I know you are a solicitor and am sure you are very good. I would want a solicitor who had the ability to find that one word in a mountain of documents that wins the case.

      However, you have picked up on the wrong thing to focus on here.

      The advice they give is correct.

      Dan
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  • Profile picture of the author Zen Productions
    Not that I have great phone experience since I just started cold calling about 7 weeks ago and I'm a little less then 400 or so cold calls in but this reminds me of a back-n-forth I had when I was setting up my online blog to make money with a couple friends.

    One swore that adsense was the best way to go, me and friend #2 thought our own product creation was the way to go. We fought for literally days about this and decided to get a person that we knew who had great experience building money making blogs.

    He basically said: Im seriously dumfounded that you guys fought about this for days. Test both strategies and then move on. Throw adsense up for two weeks then throw and product up for two weeks....see which one is more profitable. This debate should have literally taken you guys 3 seconds to figure out.

    So, what I have been doing offline is testing different scripts to get meetings when I call. I feel no one should take any person's word of "what works" until they have tested it for themselves.

    Take 50 calls do it one way, take another 50 do it another. Scrap what sucks, keep what works and test again.

    Be sure to be industry specific. Don't think that a script that works for a retail boutique and hair salon will work for a dentist or lawyer.


    Again, I've only started cold calling like 7 weeks ago but I'm just bringing some "online" experience to a "offline" conversation. So I might be horribly wrong, just trying to contribute
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