Make the right first impression, create an introductory telephone script.

Ever get stuck for the right words when a prospective client answers the phone?  Or stumble over your words when you get a gatekeeper or the inevitable voicemail?

One way to ensure a smooth conversation is to spend 5 minutes before the call writing down what you want to say.

Be sure to create three versions:  one for the prospective client, one that appeals to the gatekeeper/assistant, and one that works for voicemail.  Set them up as a template and customize it slightly for each new prospect.

Scripting delivers a professional message every time.

Use your cellphone to send emails while you are stuck in traffic.

Try Spin Vox (http://www.spinvox.com).  Using your cell phone, you can ‘dial in’ a message that is converted to an email.  When you return to your office or boot up your email, the message will be waiting.  Simply proof, make any minor modifications needed, address it, and send it on its way.

SpinVox is currently offering free service for anyone who signs up now for its beta software (click on the ‘Get SpinVox Free’ button).

Project the best image when you make a phone call

Mirror, mirror on the wall (or telephone, computer, desk)

Face a mirror when you make telephone calls to your clients and prospective clients. 

You will naturally adjust yourself to project a positive impression when you see yourself reflected in a mirror.

Don’t type your meeting notes, pick up your telephone.

Try Dial-A-Note.  Described as ‘a virtual assistant for the busy professional’, Dial-A-Note (http://www.dialanote.com) from CiviCom provides you with access to transcription support 24/7.  And it claims to be 1/2 the cost of a US-based assistant and 1/5 the cost of an executive typing service.

Simply dial, dictate, and look for it to arrive in your inbox.

Ideal for the person who spends their life on the road, gets caught between meetings, or is keyboard challenged.  And it leaves you time to do what you do best.

Telemarketing vs. Telesales:  What’s the difference?

Years ago, the word ‘Telemarketing’ described all outbound calling activities, ranging from prospecting to closing sales to account support & management. 

In the late 80s, the word ‘Telesales’ became the buzzword for selling via phone and ‘Telemarketing’ was relegated to describing prospecting and lead qualification. 
‘Telemarketing’ was marketing and promotion.  ‘Telesales’ was the process of closing the sale over the phone.

These days, the words ‘Telemarketing’ and ‘Telesales’ are often used interchangeably.  If you look these words up in two different dictionaries, you will likely find the same definition used for both words (see ‘telemarketing’ in the American Heritage Dictionary and ‘telesales’ in the Cambridge Advanced Learner Dictionary).

Either term is acceptable, how you and your company use the words is the important part.