What is cold-calling like and why do you like/dislike it?

Question

What is cold-calling like and why do you like/dislike it?

Answer 1

You have to have a very thick skin and go into it with the realization that you will have to deal with a lot of rejections before you get any takers. People also can get downright mean to telemarketers, as they find the intrusion of the cold call to be very annoying. Especially since the call usually comes during the time of day when the customer would be home (like around dinner time).

Whenever I get a telemarketing call (which I shouldn't, since I signed up for the Do Not Call registry), I immediately interrupt the caller as they start their speil and ask them if they are selling something. If they say yes, I immediately interrupt them again and tell them that I'm not interested, thank you, and hang up. Some people aren't that ... umm ... nice about it.

Answer 2

Cold calling is a good way to gather information about your prospective customers.  9 times out of 10 you will not get in to see anyone but you will get a card or name of the decision maker.  That way you can call and set an appointment.  I consider it a bonus if I actually get to talk to the decision maker that day.

I like cold calling because I have control of my own income.  The more cold calls I make the more money in my pocket.  It is also fun to get out and call on business, meet new people and just start conversations.

Sometimes I will get the uptight front desk volture, who says didn't you see the sign on the front door "no solicting".  I want to say yes, but if I paid attention to it then what would be the point of being a sales rep. everyone has one.  Instead I just smile and say sorry I missed it.  The front desk voltures are usually woman and they are usually short with you but still pleasant or they are just completely unprofessional.  I actually find this to be funny when I show up the following week for an appointment with their boss!

Answer 3

I cannot think of any worse job, no matter what product or service you are cold calling about.  You will be hung up on, yelled at, sworn at, played games with by people who lead you on, threatened.  The national do no call registry has reduced the amount of numbers available for cold calling.  If you are really pig headed and thick skinned, try collections.