9 Tips to Succeed Networking Calls
The call…Dreaded, but also so efficient, especially in the actual context. Most of us are dealing with some serious Zoom-fatigue. Having an actual human being at the other side of the line can make such a difference. So, pull up your straps and dive in for 9 tips to help you achieve success in your calls!
1. Start with an easy target
If this is your first cold call, go for someone you know. The person might not be the one that will get you a job or sign up for your services. But this call will help you to warm up before you go for bigger fish. Don’t hesitate to ask this same person for feedback on the way you handled the call.
2. Warn the person
It is always a good idea to send your networking contact a short message a couple of days before the call. Explain who you are and what you will be calling for. Mention when you will call and ask the person if he or she maybe wants to reschedule. If there is no response, go ahead anyway.
3. Be respectful
Don’t call at 8.30 pm on a Saturday night. Or on a Monday morning. Studies have shown that a Tuesday 10 am is one of the best moments to call. People got over their Monday mood, have dealt with the most urgent problems and will be more receptive to your call.
4. Prepare your pitch
You have probably not even 5 seconds to convince the person on the other line to stay on the phone with you. Use them well. Clearly state who you are, why you call, remind him/her of the warning email. Do not drop sentences such as “I am looking for a job.” Show your interest in the other person.
5. Drop the magic word “referral”
If you were referred to this person, drop that name as soon as possible. It will almost automatically open the door to a successful call. If you don’t have a referral, do your research before and find something that connects you with your networking contact such as a school you both attended.
6. Ask if this is a good timing
Even if the person has agreed to take your call, always ask him or her if it is still a good timing. Explain that your call will take around 30 minutes. If you feel the person is hesitant, propose to reschedule. You want to make sure you have the full attention of the person you are calling.
7. Have 10-15 questions ready
Prepare a list of questions. The first reason is that you will feel more comfortable. It is also helpful when you deal with someone who is not cooperative. For instance, the person only replies with yes and no. The list will then help you to not stress and get some information out of it anyway.
8. Politely cut/prolong your call
Sometimes it is not worth your time to stay for 30 min. on a call. If you realise your contact is not really interested into helping you, ask a couple of questions, and then simply thank him or her for your time. And if is the opposite, alert the person it is ok to go beyond the initial agreed time.
9. Send a “Thank You”- message
I can’t insist enough on this one. Say THANK YOU!!! This person has taken time out of his or her schedule. Be polite and respectful. But you also never know when or where you will meet that person again. Avoid awkwardness by showing your gratitude, even if the meeting was not what you expected.
Your turn! I hope these tips will help you to achieve successfull calls. Let me know how it went!
