5 Tips to get a Business Owner on the Phone

Cold calling, do people still do that today? You better believe that they still do, while now we have other ways of reaching out to people such as social media, websites and email there is still one way that corporations and businesses use to be get business and that's cold calling. Cold calling is a great way, as there is a certain human interaction that can't be used in the other mediums. If done correctly the phone can result in major business and it can be one of the most powerful tools you can add to your arsenal if you haven't already.

I have learned also that people don't like to get on the phone because of the rejection that comes with it and most of that rejection comes from the gate keeper. First I want to tell you that you shouldn't be afraid of the phone getting rejected is just part of the process of becoming successful and it's a great way to get comfortable with uncomfortable situations. Second, don't let rejection stop you from getting that deal or business that you know you can provide value for. It is your duty to help others and yourself so succeed so don't be afraid after all I'm going to show you what to do so you can minimize your rejection rate and increase your success rate.

1. Research- Before you get on the phone you want get as much information about the business you want to call. Such things you want to have ready before your call is the gatekeeper name if possible,the owners name, their email and some of their interest to find common ground. Preparation means competence and competence equals confidence. When you call you will be more confident as you are now calling someone who isn't a total stranger to you this will help you be able to form rapport easier as well. 
2. Use A Deeper Voice Tone- By using a deeper tone of voice you will be perceived to be more professional. The reason behind is that sales people and nervous people tend to have a higher voice so when  you speak to the gatekeeper she's gonna know you are a sales person or that you are soliciting something if your voice is high pitched. A deeper voice will give you a perception of authority and someone who means business. 
3. Use the owners name- The gatekeeper will ask you who are you a looking for you don't want to say your boss. This will give them a red flag that you do not know them. This is where that research you did earlier comes in handy you tell her that you're looking for Bob (business owner name). When you use names it will give the gatekeeper a feeling that you know the business and that you have business with him and she will put you through. 
4. Stay in Control of the Situation- Never let the gatekeeper take control of the situation. When she starts asking you the questions she's the one controlling so make sure you're always the one asking the questions. If she asks you what your call is in relation to you ask her who's this? Always stay in control. 
5. Never EVER Pitch the Gatekeeper- This is the most important thing other than follow up that you have to make sure you don't do. The minute you pitch the gatekeeper it's over she'll know your intentions, you'll give her the power and you won't get to the owner of the business. Never pitch the gatekeeper it's the quickest way to get shut down. Always be vague about your call and send an email before to the boss so you have an excuse to say that he should know what your call is in relation to. Remember it's all about control and being vague. 

If you follow the steps above more than likely you will be put to the boss at that point you can get straight to the chase and work your magic. At this point it's all about the close but if the owner bats you don't be discouraged it normally takes about 7 phone calls to seal the deal but it's all worth it to help you and that person succeed.  Lastly, you want to follow up this is the most important step of them all if you are determined and keep calling there is no way you don't get that person to take you serious. At first they might be annoyed but then they will respect you and they will want to do business with you. 

The phone is a powerful tool so start using it as such and watch your business and confidence grow the more you use it.