Using the correct cold calling method is an excellent job search tool to gain contacts and an inside edge on job opportunities. Cold calling can help you tap into the hidden job market for positions that aren’t being advertised. Learning how to make a successful cold call will help boost your success rate.
Today, the primary application method is indirect and impersonal, so it’s important to differentiate yourself. Making cold calls to organizations or companies is a productive way of doing this because they let you speak directly to hiring authorities.
Why Cold Calls?
The purpose of a cold call is to enable you to find out who the contact people at the company are, possibly speak with them, and find out when the best time would be to stop by and drop off a resume. Telephone contacts are an effective way to make a great first impression, gather information, and expand your professional network.
Prepare for Cold Calling
Before making your cold call, make sure that you have everything you need for your conversation, such as a pen and paper, calendar, resume, and introduction. You don’t want to be frantically looking for a pen during the conversation. The key to everything concerning your job search is preparation.
Develop a Personal Introduction
When developing your elevator speech, a two-minute commercial about yourself, or an introduction, it should contain the purpose of the phone call, your name and occupation, and a few tidbits about your professional background. In order not to sound as though you’re reading it, rehearse before making the phone call. Try not to write it down word for word. Jot short notes to keep you on point and avoid sounding stiff.
Smile
Approach the cold call via phone the same way you would a face-to-face meeting. Smile! Smiling will put you in the right mindset. A lack the physical contact in a face-to-face meeting means you need to put in extra effort to communicate your passion and personality.
When you smile while speaking via phone, your voice will sound friendlier, plus your request will not come across as demanding. Along the same lines, pay attention to your voice. Speak loud and clearly. Don’t talk too fast, too slow, or with your mouth full. Be friendly and precise when cold calling.
Get Down to Business
Remember that you’ve called for a purpose, so speak with authority, and get down to business quickly. The person you have requested to speak with is busy, and they’ll appreciate your brevity.
Once you’ve stated your purpose, be sure to listen to what the person says, and then ask for a follow-up as either another telephone call or a face-to-face meeting.
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