During a recent presentation, I shared several proven strategies for maximizing one’s income. One of the pillars we discussed was prospecting, and, although I had the presentation prepared days earlier, I couldn’t help but also share some lessons I witnessed earlier in the day regarding prospecting calls.
I flew in early so I could visit with several of our coaching members/clients, and various prospects. Yes, we prospect as well. During one visit earlier in the morning to one of our members, she was in the middle of making prospecting calls and I simply sat down and observed.
Actually, I found myself taking notes as she adeptly orchestrated the call. I wrote down 18 things she did to turn a prospect call into a secured meeting. I thought I would share 5 strategies this particular member/client successfully implemented.
5 WINNING STRATEGIES WHEN MAKING PROSPECT CALLS
1) She listened.
At first I thought she was on hold as she didn’t say a word for 3 minutes, but soon realized her prospect was sharing their story. She correctly allowed the prospect to talk, so she can gather all the information she could to represent that she was listening and understood the prospect’s specific situation.
2) She took notes.
ALWAYS take notes when your prospect is talking. I prefer wearing a headset and type, so you can enter these notes directly into your CRM, but regardless, take notes, as these are the basis for your engaging questions.
3) She reiterated her understanding of what the prospect shared with her.
This is huge. Your prospect needs to know that you clearly understand their situation, and if you have any misunderstandings, this is where you can clarify.
4) She shared relevant information.
This particular prospect was looking to lease a large office building and she casually interjected similar properties she had successfully leased. This provided the prospect with the comfort and confidence that she was the right person to speak with.
5) She asked for the meeting.
Sharing information is great, but you must ask for the business. While asking for the business, she shared exactly what was to be addressed during the meeting and what the benefits of holding this meeting would be for the prospect.
Again, she implemented several other tactics to secure the meetings, but these 5 are critical to any prospect call. The next time you find a prospect sharing information with you, recognize they are inviting you to ask for their business. Follow the steps above and turn these calls into meetings.
One Response
Great blog. We all need to learn to listen better. Me included. If you can get the prospect talking, keep listening. It is amazing what they will share. Also, keep asking questions. I am always surprised at what people will share if you ask. Rod, keep up the great work.