Making Sales Calls - My Phone Scripts
Update 1/7 - Hi all - this is really a half-post, but I wanted to get it out there since I started it so long ago - I’ve been REALLY derailed by the holidays. I’ll finish my “sales scripts” post after our big event this weekend.
(12-21-2007)It’s been a busy week at Baby Fabulous, so I apologize for lagging on getting this information to you. I will say that I’ve fallen off the wagon a little this week - but just a little. When Halloween whalloped me, I wanted to write about the need for mompreneurs(R) to implement holidays into their project plans. This is no joke!!! The holidays are foreseeable and should be scheduled. But I didn’t write the post and I forgot to take my own advice. ha ha! But I digress…let’s talk about our FAVORITE thing in the world - making sales phone calls. Telemarketing right?
I used the sales script found in the “Selling Your Clothing Line” book from startingaclothingline.com. That script was a starting point only because I realized immediately that it wasn’t me - didn’t feel natural. I have two phone scripts - one for boutiques that are far away (all communication will happen via phone/email) and one for boutiques that are nearby, (I want an appointment with nearby boutiques). Face-to-face is always the ideal.
Then, once I started making calls, I REALLY simplified what I was saying. If I couldn’t get the owner on the phone, my number one goal was to get a name and direct email. I succeeded in this goal 98% of the time. I will say that making calls in this industry is refreshing. Most of the boutique owners are moms and everyone has been really friendly and willing to share their time.
To get to the point, here’s what I say when I call:
Hello, is (owner’s name if possible) the owner or buyer available?
response: Who’s calling?
I’m ……. from …… We specialize in high-end personalized blankets and unique baby clothes. I’m calling to see if I can come in and show some samples of our line.
- If they tell me owner / buyer is not available, I ask for the contact name and an email address where I can send follow-up information.
-If the buyer is available, then I give a quick spiel on our products and either ask for an appointment, or again, an email.
It’s the first couple of lines out of your mouth that are important. I try to quickly get to the point, keeping it as simple as possible.
(to be continued..)
7 comments January 8th, 2008