Sticks and Stones May Break Your Phones

This article is for anyone who schedules appointments or sells, by phone.

Do you remember the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never kill me?” 

Oh yes they can! Words can kill your business…kill your revenue…and kill your opportunity to connect with a potential customer. You have 15 seconds to grab someone’s attention before they check out. Words…can kill your phone call!

As a sales consultant, I hear opening statements each week from sales people around the world. Let’s examine some typical opening statements I hear.

“Hi. My name is Rob and I specialize in hospitality. I worked in the industry for many years but right now I’m an entrepreneur and I would love to hear what your challenges are. Based on my experience I should be able to create a solution to boost your number of customers. Do you have time to talk right now?”

What do you think? Sounds professional, right? It sounds professional, but, it sucks! Why??? Why would we dog this sales message? It’s not a winning sales message. There are certain words when used in an opening statement that will kill your revenue.  

We know that different is the new great. But, most opening statements sound the same: “Hello, this is me. This is where I’m calling from. This is what I want. Is now a good time to talk?” Seriously, say yours in your head then try not to hit yourself.

Hi this Dave, and I’m with Network Services. We specialize in doing blah blah and I was calling because I want blahhhhhh blahhhhhh. Is now a good time to hear about blahhhhhh blahhhhhh?

 The average listener’s mental reply is: “I don’t know you. I don’t care. So what! No!”

Words can kill your phone call. Or, words can breathe life into a great conversation. Your opening statement must focus on the customer from the start or it will end quickly. A great opening statement must have four parts: Greeting, Attention Statement, Interest Statement, and Involvement Starter. 

The words you use can make the difference between a live sales call or a call that is DOA!

If you struggle for the words to kick-start your sales call then….call me. I will not throw sticks or stones at you. Instead, I will throw prospecting tips your way for free.  

?Click here for more information: https://willpowerharris.com/prospecting-book-offer

Article by Will Harris