When people think of telemarketing, some misconceptions might come to mind. For example, some people picture agents in offshore call centers with difficult-to-understand accents, while others think of aggressive calls from pushy salespeople.
Unfortunately, many myths surround what we know is a very effective form of marketing.
Today, we’d like to debunk some of these telemarketing misconceptions. But first, let’s talk about what telemarketing is.
What is Telemarketing?
Telemarketing is directly marketing products or services to potential customers via telephone. There are several forms of telemarketing, including but not limited to:
- B2B Outbound Marketing
- B2C Outbound Marketing
- Outbound Call Center Pricing
- Lead Generation and Qualification
These services can save companies time and boost return on investment, especially if they outsource to a partner.
5 Telemarketing Misconceptions Debunked
1. It’s ineffective
The biggest telemarketing misconception is that it doesn’t work. However, when that’s the case, it’s often because it’s not executed correctly.
Telemarketers are here to help you reach your goals and know how crucial research is to generate results. They know it’s not practical to reach out to people you know won’t benefit from your product or service.
Telemarketing is often viewed as a “numbers game,” but an effective strategy focuses time and effort on making the most of each conversation. First, it’s essential to identify your target audience. Then, think about their pain points and how you can tailor your calls to address them.
A well-thought-out strategy will produce high-quality results. Many organizations consider telemarketing a vital tool for reaching their sales and service goals.
2. It’s outdated
The next telemarketing misconception: it’s outdated. With many businesses turning their heads towards digital marketing, it’s easy to let telemarketing fall by the wayside. However, this has been and continues to be a valuable tool for generating business.
In our digital world, people have learned to appreciate the value of conversation. As a result, they are more likely to remember an honest discussion than an ad they quickly scrolled past on the internet.
Telemarketing allows you to have an individualized approach and instantly receive feedback. It’s an opportunity to personally discuss with prospective customers what you do and why they could benefit from your offer.
3. It’s expensive
As with most forms of marketing, telemarketing will cost you. However, it also offers an excellent return on investment.
Outbound call center pricing models typically fit into three different categories:
- Hourly
- Pay for performance
- Hourly plus pay for performance
Outsourcing your telemarketing services can free up time and allow your employees to focus on other business areas. In the long run, this can help you save money and resources.
4. Agents are only based in offshore call centers
There’s a common misconception that telemarketers are all based in offshore call centers and will have accents that might be difficult for your customers to understand. While this may be the case for some call centers, there’s an abundance of agents based here in the U.S.
You can even select your call center based on the region agents are located. For example, a Midwestern accent tends to be a more neutral accent for agents.
With thousands of telemarketing and call service providers in the U.S. and Canada, it’s time to debunk this myth!
5. Aggressive tactics
With the rise of illegal robocalls, telemarketing has unfortunately received some unfair blame. This is why it’s essential to ensure your telemarketing services comply and follow a customer-oriented strategy.
Telemarketing’s success relies on having a receptive audience and bringing value to your calls. It’s widely recognized that aggressive or dishonest tactics will damage your reputation and, ultimately, your results.
After all, it’s unlikely that a frustrated or annoyed prospect will want to buy your product or service.
Make the Most of Your Call Center Dollars
Quality Contact Solutions provides inbound call center services and outbound marketing solutions. We also specialize in both B2C and B2B customer contacts.
As telemarketing experts, our team can quickly and cost-effectively help solve your most challenging problems. If you’re interested in working with a partner that can maximize your call center dollars, call our sales team at 866-963-2889 or request a quote by clicking the button below.
Other Articles You Might Find Interesting:
How to Grow Your Business With a B2B Lead Generation Service
How to Select a Third-Party Call Center Services Company
Ashley Thusius is the Marketing Coordinator at Quality Contact Solutions. With a background in marketing and social media, Ashley enjoys sharing relevant information and making connections with our audience. Prior to joining QCS, she managed the marketing for a construction company serving customers in Alabama and Florida. You can reach Ashley at ashley.thusius@answernet.com.
