Make a killer sales call

Sales calls are the bread and butter of most enterprises. They bring in clients, help clear bills and expand a business. Small scale businessmen in particular rely heavily on sales calls to get the word out. But making calls is an art. How do you make a call without hearing the usual “call back later” ten tips to make effective sales calls and build a strategy that works!

• Tread off the beaten path. Starting with a “hello sir” is the worst way to begin a call. When you say “Hello Mr. John” you have better chances of being heard.

• Asking questions are one smart way to build a conversation. Ask open ended questions as yes or no questions like “are you interested” get just yes and no answers.

• Sounding over zealous can make people lose interest. Sound matter of fact and speak like you are giving them an option instead of selling a product or service.

• Get to the point quickly. Talking to someone pleasant is not what people are interested in. Explain briefly why you called instead of exchanging pleasantries.

• Follow up on calls. There are going to be a lot of people asking you to call after office hours. Remember to call then or you’d have missed out on a client forever.

• For once name dropping isn’t considered obscene! Mention clients you’ve worked with or sold your products to. It helps convince wavering minds.

• If someone sounds busy or distracted offer to call later instead of pushing on nevertheless.

• Audio record your sales calls but keep the legal guidelines in mind. Use good call recording software like Radio Shack or Olympus so you don’t end up with screechy recordings.

• Transcribing sales calls can help in spotting and fixing on mistakes made without listening repeatedly to the recording.

• Finally smile while speaking as it is reported that people can sense a genuine smile across airwaves!