Cold Calling: The Comeback Kid of Sales
In an era dominated by tweets (x’s?), snaps, and endless email threads, declaring cold calling dead might seem as obvious as saying fax machines are obsolete. However, this classic sales technique is not only alive but kicking with surprising vigor. Recent data reveals that 69% of buyers have accepted cold calls from sales representatives in the past year. That's right—while you're perfecting your latest email campaign, prospects are picking up their phones.
But wait, there's more! A study found that 57% of C-level executives prefer to be contacted via phone . So, while you're crafting that perfect LinkedIn message, remember that over half of top executives might appreciate a good old-fashioned phone call instead. And for those who think cold calling is a numbers game, consider this: it takes an average of eight call attempts to reach a prospect . Persistence, it seems, pays off.
Now, let's talk success rates. While cold calling boasts a modest 2% success rate , it's essential to remember that in the vast ocean of sales, every little percentage counts. Plus, 80% of sales require five follow-up calls after the initial contact. So, if at first you don't succeed, dial, dial again.
In conclusion, while digital channels are all the rage, don't hang up on cold calling just yet. With the right approach, a dash of persistence, and perhaps a touch of humor, cold calling can still be a valuable tool in your sales arsenal. So, pick up that phone—you never know who might be on the other end, ready to chat.
-J
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