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What do you think about when you hear the word telemarketing? If you are like many people, you think about disrupted dinners and calls about things you do not care about. This has led many businesses to reevaluate their telemarketing program. Often, the problem is not with the telemarketing services being used, but often lies with the approach which it is being used.

This is not a one-size-fits-all kind of program. In order to get the best results, you will need a tailored approach. This approach takes into consideration about whether you will be received well. You will also look at the information you are providing and the methods through which you are reaching your clients. The more you customize your telemarketing approach, the better results you will be able to receive.

Telemarketing to businesses is very different from telemarketing to individuals. This is because B2B telemarketing needs to be focused on meeting the needs of the business in a way which will make them money. Most businesses do not have the time to talk on the phone with every person. They will pick and choose who they will talk to live. Emails are normally the best way to market to them. They will usually take at least a precursory glance at what you send them.

Another great way to reach the harried professional is through their mobile devices. This is a sticky situation for many businesses as you will have to have the permission of the client to send them anything. This is because the telemarketing laws are very strict when it comes to cell phones and the FCC will catch you if you try to get around the law. Simply ask your clients to opt in so that you can send out SMS messages which will grab their attention.

The reason why text messages are such a popular emerging telemarketing too is because over 90% are opened while over 80% will be opened in the first hour received. This means unlike phone calls which can be ignored and emails which can get lost in spam folders, text messages will actually reach your clients. This will help you to get your message across more effectively. Be very careful that whether telemarketing from in house or sourced out that the FCC telemarketing laws are followed to the letter of the law.

There are times when no other way of reaching your clients and potential clients will do other than on the telephone. This is especially true when you need lead generation. There is still no better way to accomplish appointment setting and to establish contacts at businesses. The trick is to not follow the same monotone telemarketing strategies. Reading from scripts and having rote answers from telemarketers puts people off. Make sure that the call room is staffed by individuals who are versed in being able to reach people through thoughtful answers to questions they might have as well as creative ways to keep them on the phone.

Resource Nation provides free tools, tips, and purchasing advice for business owners and entrepreneurs in over 100 business categories ranging from phone systems to credit card processing.  Whether it’s connecting businesses with local and national pre-screened vendors, or offering easy service comparisons on a VoIP service, Resource Nation empowers business decision makers by providing the information they need to make smart choices.


This Marketing article was written by Shannon Suetos on 9/23/2010

Shannon Suetos is the online editor at Resource Nation. She writes expert advice for small businesses and entrepreneurs.