What is Telemarketing?
Developed in the 1970s, telemarketing refers to a salesperson trying to reach potential customers through placing an initial phone call to members of a desired market. In-person appointment generation, direct mail, e-blasts, and web conferencing are also techniques associated with telemarketing.
Telemarketing stems from Bell System Communications need for a term to describe their new outbound WATS (Wide Area Telephone Service) and inbound toll-free services, in which potential customers were acquired and could call and request information from Bell, all at no cost.
Telemarketing Options
There are several types of telemarketing which can be used for sales leads and all depend on the desired outcome. These include: outbound sales, lead generations, inbound sales, fundraising, market research, and political telemarketing.
Telemarketing is often used by charities, alumni organizations, and political parties seeking donations. Telemarketing might also be employed to survey public opinion, generally concerning elections and ballot issues.
This guides main focus will be on lead generation, outbound sales, and outbound call centers.
Telemarketing Resources
To effectively compile a list of potential customers that you wish to purchase your products or services, you must understand your target demographic by analyzing your current customer base. Once you understand who you are targeting, you can provide this information to your telemarketing company so they can compile a prospect list for you. Another option is to create an internal list by utilizing your company's existing database. Sources for internal lists can include:
- Purchase history (past customers/prospectus)
- Requests for information
- Competitive entry forms
- Application forms
This buyers guide provides comprehensive information about telemarketing including how to choose a firm, how to incorporate telemarketing into your business marketing strategy, and how to gain all necessary resources to ensure an efficient and cost-effective process.