How to Be a Good Telemarketer

You can develop excellent telemarketing skills.

In addition to a clear speaking voice, successful telemarketing requires motivation, product knowledge and good communication skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, telemarketers earned an estimated average wage of $12.24 per hour in 2010. Telemarketers work from home or the office and generally place calls to consumers and businesses to solicit sales and memberships. Typically, a telemarketer is the first point of contact for a business, so it is imperative to develop good telemarketing skills for success.

Things You'll Need

• Telephone

Instructions

1. Set reasonable goals. Motivation is key to successful telemarketing. Developing goals for productivity is an important step for maintaining motivation. An hourly goal is often more manageable than long-term goals. Quotas may be required as part of the job description, which will require a specific number of calls, sales or appointments per hour. Set personal goals slightly above company quotas to stand out as someone with exceptional drive and motivation.

2. Memorize the script or sales pitch. Companies often provide telemarketers with a script to follow. However, reading from a script comes across as ill-prepared and unprofessional. Take time to rehearse in the mirror or with friends and ask for feedback. Your voice should sound natural and confident without being rushed. It's also easier to overcome objections. Being interrupted while reading from a script can confuse and frustrate a telemarketer.

3. Know the product before you place any calls. Taking the time to become thoroughly familiar with your company's product or service creates confidence and leads, ultimately, to more success. Make a list of questions the potential customer may ask. Understand your company's policies on cancellations and other pertinent information. Knowledge instills confidence in the customer or client and improves your confidence as well. Additionally, learning accurate facts about your company will eliminate any guesswork should the potential client inquire about the business you work for.

Tips & Warnings

• Attitude is an important factor in telemarketing success. It is difficult to disguise negativity over the phone. Keep in mind that when placing calls, having a smile on your face is more likely to translate to a positive attitude over the phone.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics; Occupational Employment Statistics; Telemarketers
• Quinsigamond Community College: Call Center Training
• Impact Factory: Telemarketing Skills Training