Call Me Maybe

Posted on July 24, 2012 by Greg No Comments

I still rely on the telephone. It’s an important part of my business and personal life.

But we’re in the midst of change.

In short, people aren’t calling each other as much. Instead, communication is happening on different platforms.

Last summer I interviewed a 17 year-old and asked him a bunch of questions about how he communicates. The same kid is now an adult, has a job, and is starting college. Has his communication style changed? No. Like many his age, just entering the workforce and college life, he’s still a texter and grimaces when he has to use the telephone.

Okay, I have to admit that I’ve become a texter. But I still like to make and get phone calls. A large part of my day is still spent on the horn. Next to being with someone in person, or on a Skype video call, it’s what works for me.

But what about our marketing and sales efforts?

What needs to change so that our so-called cold calls are more effective? As peoples’ preferences change should we begin using more non telephone-based marketing and cold call tactics?

I think the answer is yes. We should be folding in more marketing tactics that involve smartphones, in particular. After all, smartphones have become an appendage. We’re using them more and more.

Reactions from smartphone users are more likely

As it turns out, smartphone users are more likely to respond to mobile advertising. That means they’re more likely to call you, especially if you include your phone number in your call to action.

So maybe phone calls aren’t dead?

Check out this video form Google. It includes some interesting stats. While it’s focused on mobile, there is information related to phone calls: