When's the best time to cold call?
71% more conversions happen during optimal cold call times? It's not just what you say, but when you say it. Mastering the timing of your outreach can mean the difference between a hang-up and a hot lead.
In this guide, we'll share the secrets to perfect cold call timing, including:
Plus, we'll share battle-tested best practices and strategies for overcoming those pesky cold-calling challenges.
And if you're struggling to build a quality list of prospects, check out ListKit. It's the B2B lead database that takes the guesswork out of prospecting, so you can spend less time searching and more time selling.
Ever get that "ugh, not this guy again" feeling when your phone rings at the worst possible moment? Your cold calling prospects feel the same way. Studies show a whopping 71% increase in conversions when you call at the right time. So, timing isn't just a minor detail. It's a game-changer.
Imagine you're the prospect laser-focused on a critical project when your phone buzzes. It's a cold caller. Do you:
A) Drop everything and chat?
B) Send them straight to voicemail?
C) Silently curse their existence?
Yeah, we thought so. Now flip the script. You're the one calling. By strategically timing your outreach, you dodge the "annoying caller" label and become the person offering a timely solution.
When are those magical times, you ask? Generally, late mornings (think 10 am-12 pm) and late afternoons (around 2 pm-5 pm) tend to be the sweet spot. Why? It's all about catching prospects when they've settled into their workday, but haven't yet hit that end-of-day rush.
Timing your cold call right is like finding the perfect wave for surfing β it's all about understanding the currents and catching the flow. Master this, and you'll be riding a wave of conversions in no time.
There are two golden windows for catching prospects during their most receptive hours:
Take it this way: you wouldn't interrupt someone's dinner, right? Similarly, avoid calling too early when they're still sipping coffee or mid-afternoon when they're heads-down in a project.
Every industry and audience is different. Experiment with these timeframes to see what works best for your specific prospects. Maybe your ideal client is an early bird who loves a 9 am chat, or perhaps they're night owls who are more receptive after dinner.
Ever notice how Mondays are a blur of catching up, and Fridays are a race to the weekend? Your prospects feel the same way. That's why Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are the sweet spot for cold calling.
Let's break it down:
Don't take our word for it β let's look at some numbers:
The data speaks for itself. Focusing your cold calling efforts on these mid-week days will maximize your chances of connecting with prospects who are ready to listen.
Pro tip: Use a LinkedIn automation tool like Expandi to schedule connection requests and automated DMs for these peak days. It's a hands-off way to keep your pipeline flowing while you focus on closing deals.
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Timing isn't the only factor that influences cold call success. Here are a few more things to keep in mind:
Did you know it takes an average of eight attempts to reach a prospect? That's right β most people won't pick up on the first try. But don't give up. Just be strategic about your follow-up calls.
Here's a sample follow-up routine:
The best times to call can vary depending on your target audience. Are you selling to busy executives or stay-at-home parents? B2B or B2C? Tailor your approach accordingly.
For example, B2B prospects are typically more receptive during business hours, while B2C consumers might be easier to reach in the evenings or on weekends.
Pro tip: Use ListKit to filter leads by industry, job title, and other relevant criteria. This ensures you're calling the right people at the right time β every time.
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Don't waste precious minutes dialing numbers that never pick up. Instead, use a tool like ListKit to automate your outreach and track your results. This frees you up to focus on what you do best β closing deals.
By considering these additional factors alongside optimal timing, you'll be well on your way to mastering cold calling.
Just as there are prime times for cold calling, there are also terrible times when you're better off doing anything else. Avoid cold calling these like the plague:
Pro tip: Use a social media automation tool like Hypefury to schedule your Twitter DMs for the best times and avoid those dreaded after-hours messages.
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By steering clear of these cold calling faux pas, you'll avoid alienating prospects and increase your chances of connecting with them when they're actually ready to talk. Remember, timing is everything in the sales world, so make sure you choose your moments wisely.
Cold calling doesn't have to be a manual grind. In today's tech-savvy world, AI-powered tools and automation software are here to save the day (and your sanity). Let's explore how these tools can streamline your cold calling game:
Think of AI dialers as your trusty sidekick. They automate repetitive tasks like:
Integrating your cold calling tools with your CRM is like giving your sales team X-ray vision. They'll have instant access to up-to-date customer information, call history, and notes, enabling them to personalize each call and build stronger relationships.
What gets measured gets managed. By tracking metrics like call duration, connection rates, and conversion rates, you gain valuable insights into what's working and what's not. This data-driven approach allows you to continuously refine your strategy and boost your results.
Pro tip: ListKit offers a robust suite of tools that combine AI-powered dialing, CRM integration, and data analytics, making it the ultimate cold calling companion.
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By embracing these powerful tools and technologies, you can transform your cold calling from a dreaded chore into a well-oiled machine that generates leads and closes deals like a boss. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to upgrade your making cold calls techniques and watch your sales soar.
Cold calling can be nerve-wracking. But with the right strategies, you can turn those cold leads into warm conversations. Here's the list of best cold calling tips from pros:
A well-crafted script is like a map for your conversation. It keeps you on track, helps you handle objections, and ensures you deliver your message clearly and concisely.
Your tone of voice can make or break a cold call. Aim for a conversational, friendly, and confident tone. Avoid sounding robotic or overly salesy.
Pro Tip: Research suggests that successful cold calls have a longer average monologue duration (53 seconds vs. 25 seconds for unsuccessful ones) and a higher talk-to-listen ratio (55% talking vs. 45% listening). So, don't be afraid to talk, but be sure to listen actively as well.
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Pro Tip: When following up with an email, try using a simple yet effective subject line like "Quick question." This piques curiosity and can lead to a 75% open rate or higher.
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By incorporating these best practices into your cold-calling strategy, you'll be well on your way to becoming a cold-calling pro.
Cold calling is not always a walk in the park. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way:
Let's be real. Rejection is as much a part of cold calling as dial tones and awkward silences. You might even face rejection 8 out of 10 times. But don't let that discourage you. It's not a reflection of your skills or worth. It's simply the nature of the beast.
Remember, not every prospect will be a perfect fit. Some might be too busy, not interested, or just plain grumpy. The key is to not take it personally and keep your chin up. Each "no" brings you one step closer to a "yes."
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Gatekeepers can be a tough nut to crack, but they're not invincible. Here's how to get past them:
Don't let voicemail be a dead end. Use it as an opportunity to leave a compelling message that sparks their interest.
By facing these challenges head-on and implementing effective strategies, you can turn cold calling into a powerful weapon in your sales arsenal. Persistence, preparation, and a positive attitude are the keys to success. And if you need some help getting started, ListKit can provide you with a steady stream of high-quality leads to fuel your cold-calling engine.
You've now got the inside scoop on mastering the timing of your cold phone calls. By strategically planning your outreach, you'll connect with more prospects, spark meaningful conversations, and close more deals. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but when you say it.
Key takeaways:
Ready to put these tips into action but struggling to find the right prospects? Look no further than ListKit. Our B2B lead database is packed with triple-verified emails and phone numbers, so you can spend less time searching and more time selling.
Plus, with credit-based pricing, you only pay for the contacts you actually use. No more wasted time or money on outdated or inaccurate leads.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for ListKit today and start making those calls count.
Yes. 2 pm falls within the sweet spot of late afternoons (2 pm - 5 pm), which studies suggest have high connection rates. People are usually wrapping up their most pressing tasks and might be more open to conversations.
Research indicates late mornings (10 am - 12 pm) and late afternoons (2 pm - 5 pm) are generally the most effective times. However, the optimal time can vary depending on your industry and target audience, so it's important to experiment and find what works best for you.
In most cases, yes. People typically settle into their workday at 9 am, check emails, and prioritize tasks. They might not be as receptive to a cold call at this time. Aim for later in the morning or afternoon for better results.
The first 7 seconds are crucial for making a good impression. Here's a breakdown of what to do:
Following these tips can increase your chances of a successful cold call and avoid coming across as pushy or intrusive.
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