Comments on: FAST Way to Book More Sales

By: Brian McGovern

Brian McGovern — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:27:43 +0000

I’ll put together a more instructive response – but in short … How do you get over your cold-call jitters?

If you’re calling strangers to interrupt them and try to force them to agree with you … it is natural and OK to feel nervous. There’s not a thing in the world wrong with that – it’s part of many creative people’s personalities. And my advice is to not do it!

Instead, get in touch with your creative and giving side and find ways to help people. The offer you have is a perfect example. What wedding planner wouldn’t be delighted to get a valuable freebie to give their clients? That’s a fantastic offer.

The first sale you have to make is to yourself. I’ve seen your portfolio and you know you do wonderful work … so believe it. Imagine how much value you are giving away to a handful of select event professionals. (And be selective … don’t do this as a blanket offer).

To help warm up that first call, get someone to introduce you or at least a name to reference when you call.

I’d write more, but that would only take away from your call time. Like Diana said … schedule a definite number of calls to make every single day.

By: Brian McGovern

Brian McGovern — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:15:30 +0000

Diana … I just visited your site … you’re right! That’s an unusual service. I’d LOVE to hear that cold call.

By: Laura

Laura — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:38:48 +0000

Thanks Brian. Another great article and very timely for me too. Alot of what I have read tells me I should get out of my safety zone and network more which I’m going to start doing face to face soon.
I have an idea to offer gift vouchers for key suppliers (wedding planners, reception venues & celebrants) who are booked before a photographer for a wedding, giving their clients a free engagement session. The butterflies start fluttering really badly when I think of calling people I don’t know. I’m procrastinating wondering if I should post, email or call first. Any tips on how or if I should be doing this at all? (p.s. Just realised I’m procrastinating again by asking you!!)

By: Emee

Emee — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:59:56 +0000

I’m with Pat — I hate making phone calls. Emails are so much easier but you’re right, the phone is much more personal and direct. I guess I don’t want to come off as pushy. But the flip side of calling (the good side) is showing your clients you care about them and are thinking about them.

By: Diana Tatum

Diana Tatum — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:55:36 +0000

Brian, I have a wonderful time cold calling and also help my site. You see I market an unusual service. I have Texas Longhorn photo steers that have an educational program as well. You can really get even the cranky totally off gaurd and some times have the Owner call you back. Even if they are AGGIES! What helps me is to have a rule of so many phone calls per day. Thanks for the article, it’s a good one-Diana

By: Brian McGovern

Brian McGovern — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:43:19 +0000

Pat! You are too funny!

By: Pat Ahaesy

Pat Ahaesy — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:41:22 +0000

Brian, You’ve hit the nail on the head. If I weren’t procrastinating making call, I wouldn’t have seen your email nor would I be able to make this sad comment.
I am horrible at calling as I feel that I’m intruding.
Thanks for the boost. I’ll get on the phone. I’ve got lots of people to call.