Cold calling is basically the practice of reaching out to companies, usually via telephone, and enquiring about whether they need your services. A lot of consultants do not like using this method, but if used correctly it can really help you in getting new projects.
The main reason for people to shy away from this method is the fear of being rejected. They do not want to hear ‘No’ from the company. But, if you do not give it a try at all, you might miss out on a job that might have been yours only if you had called. Here are a few tips you should keep in mind when using cold calling.
Be prepared
Calling without being prepared can hurt your chances. Make sure that you have decided what to say beforehand and just to give it a more refined look, you should rehearse the lines as well. The first impression has to be a good one, so you should sound confident and energetic without going overboard. Also, remember that the hiring staff at companies does not have a lot of time on their hands, so deliver what you have to say in under a minute.
Getting past the receptionist
Most of the companies have a receptionist to answer the calls which forward them to the relevant people. To make your cold call effective you need to go past the receptionist first. For doing this you need to know the person you wish to talk to. Saying that you wish to talk to the ‘hiring manager’ will not help you. Use the company website or other resources to find out the name of the person you should talk to. When you call, just mention the name and say that you wish to talk to that person.
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