First, Hire B2B Telemarketing Professionals
First, hire a qualified telemarketing firm that specializes in business-to-business tele-services. Because you will need telemarketing representatives who can follow your appointment-setting technique, you need people who will function as an extension of your business. Here are some of the criteria you should look for in a telemarketing firm:
- Solid understanding of your industry
- Willingness to commit dedicated agents to your campaigns
- Access to native-language speaking agents
- Agents with the education and experience to represent your business with the highest degree of professionalism
- Agents trained in telemarketing and sales
- Agents motivated to help you win business
But while your telemarketing agents are the raw talent you need to effect an appointment-setting strategy, they are only half of the equation. You must develop appointment-setting techniques that will connect with prospective customers emotionally and factually.
Second, Craft a Winning Message
Creating an effective appointment-setting technique requires you to know your target audience and keep their needs in mind as you craft your marketing message. The telemarketing call that effectively presents your value proposition, addresses competitive differences, and counters objections will instill confidence that a face-to-face meeting is what they need to make a buying decision. Here are several steps to help you refine your appointment-setting technique:
- Identify Your Target Audience
Know who your target audience is before you select who to call. Talk their language and prove that you understand them.
- Match Stages of the Buyers’ Journey
Buyers move through at least three phases: awareness, consideration, and decision. Shape your messaging to help your telemarketing agents converse effectively at each stage.
- Address Industry Trends and Insights
Customers need to know about trends and research in your industry that may impact their buying decisions. By working your unique insights into the messaging, you’ll give prospective buyers the confidence that you understand the industry and your products/services deserve consideration.
- Counter the Competition
The best defense is a good offense. Know what your competitors are saying about themselves and you. Build a positive response by positioning your products/services and emphasizing your value proposition.
- Handle Objections
Prospects will challenge telemarketers. So arm your agents with information and tactics for countering customer objections.
- Share Success Stories
Your customers have real-world insight into how your products/services can best be used. Use their successes to inspire prospects and help them to envision similar successes for themselves.
Third, Train Agents to Build Relationships
Nurturing is a way to build relationships successfully. Your appointment-setting technique should anticipate every stage of engagement. While most professional telemarketing agents won’t work from a script, you can outline the process that will help them get past gatekeepers and build an engaging conversation with prospects. Conversation is the operative word. Train your agents to build rapport, spark curiosity, and actively drive toward the objective—booking an appointment. A well-crafted appointment-setting technique in the hands of a professional telemarketer is a win for you and your prospects.
To learn more about B2B appointment setting, get our free guide: “Your Essential Guide to B2B Appointment Setting”.
