Time management is one of the most important skills a telephone sales professional can have. Here are a few tips to make the most of your sales time:
Manage distractions. When you're on task, turn off your cellphone, hold your calls, switch off the you've-got-mail notice, sign out of instant messaging and social media, and hang up a do-not-disturb sign.
Keep phone calls short. Schedule phone calls for no longer than 15 minutes.
Take advantage of voice mail. When you're simply delivering information, time the calls for early morning or evening. You're more likely to get voice mail and avoid a lengthier conversation.
Maximize drive time. Keep a collection of self-help, professional-improvement, and motivational CDs in your car and pop them in when you're driving to work or to an appointment.
