Ringless voicemail is a marketing strategy that allows you to send pre-recorded voice messages to potential customers without ringing their phones. This way, you can avoid interrupting them or annoying them with unwanted calls. However, not all ringless voicemail messages are created equal. Depending on your goals, target audience, and product or service, you may want to use different selling techniques to persuade your listeners. In this post, we will compare and contrast two common selling techniques: hard selling and soft selling. We will also provide some tips on how to decide which one is more suitable for your ringless voicemail campaign.
What is Hard Selling?
Hard selling is a sales approach that focuses on creating a sense of urgency and pressure for the customer to buy your product or service. Hard selling messages typically use strong and direct language, emphasize the benefits and features of your offer, and include a clear and compelling call to action. Hard selling messages may also use scarcity tactics, such as limited-time offers, discounts, or bonuses, to motivate the customer to act fast.
Some examples of hard selling phrases are:
- “Don’t miss this opportunity to save 50% on your subscription. This offer expires in 24 hours, so call us now!”
- “You need this product to solve your problem. It’s the best solution on the market, and it’s proven to work. Order now and get a free gift!”
- “This is your last chance to join our exclusive program. We only have a few spots left, and they are filling up fast. If you don’t act now, you will regret it later.”
What is Soft Selling?
Soft selling is a sales approach that focuses on building trust and rapport with the customer, rather than pushing them to buy. Soft selling messages typically use gentle and friendly language, emphasize the value and quality of your product or service, and invite the customer to learn more or contact you for further information. Soft selling messages may also use storytelling, testimonials, or social proof to show how your product or service can help the customer achieve their goals or solve their problems.
Some examples of soft selling phrases are:
- “We understand that you are looking for a reliable and affordable solution for your needs. That’s why we created this product with you in mind. It’s designed to help you achieve your goals and improve your situation. If you want to find out more, please visit our website or give us a call.”
- “You deserve the best for yourself and your family. That’s why we offer you this high-quality service that will make your life easier and happier. Don’t just take our word for it, listen to what our satisfied customers have to say. You can also check out our reviews and ratings online.”
- “We are here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have. We are not just a company, we are a community of like-minded people who share your values and interests. We would love to hear from you and get to know you better. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime.”
How to Choose Between Hard and Soft Selling for Ringless Voicemail
There is no definitive answer to which selling technique is better for ringless voicemail. It depends on various factors, such as your industry, product or service, target audience, and marketing goals. However, here are some general guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
- Use hard selling if you have a low-cost, low-risk, or impulse-buy product or service that does not require much explanation or education. For example, if you are selling a subscription to a magazine, a coupon for a restaurant, or a ticket to an event, you may want to use hard selling to create a sense of urgency and excitement for your offer.
- Use soft selling if you have a high-cost, high-risk, or complex product or service that requires more trust and credibility. For example, if you are selling a software, a consulting service, or a membership to a club, you may want to use soft selling to establish a relationship and demonstrate your value and expertise.
- Use a combination of hard and soft selling if you want to balance both approaches and appeal to different types of customers. For example, you can start with a soft selling introduction that shows empathy and understanding, then follow with a hard selling pitch that highlights the benefits and features of your offer, and end with a soft selling invitation that encourages the customer to contact you or visit your website.
Key Takeaways
Ringless voicemail is a powerful marketing tool that can help you reach and influence potential customers. However, to make the most of it, you need to choose the right selling technique for your message. Whether you opt for hard selling, soft selling, or a mix of both, make sure to:
- Know your audience and their needs, wants, and pain points
- Know your product or service and its unique selling proposition
- Know your goals and what action you want the customer to take
- Craft a clear, concise, and compelling message that speaks to the customer’s emotions and logic
- Test and measure your results and optimize your strategy accordingly
By following these tips, you can create effective ringless voicemail messages that will boost your sales and grow your business.