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Cold calling is one of those things that send chills down the spine of even the most seasoned sales pros. It feels unnatural, almost like you’re not supposed to be doing it, but it’s still one of the best ways to meet new prospects and build your pipeline. This article is all about how you can face the phone, feel less awkward, and maybe even start to enjoy making those calls.
Key Takeaways
Cold calling makes everyone nervous
You're not as likely to get yelled at as you think
Confidence and belief in what you’re selling go a long way
Practice is the most reliable cure for cold call nerves
Quick hacks can make it easier: stand up, smile, play that pump-up song
Why Cold Calling Feels So Weird
Let’s be real: hardly anyone actually likes cold calling. If someone says they do, they’re probably stretching the truth or they’re just built a little different. Even people who’ve made thousands of these calls get that “sweaty palms” feeling. It’s normal. In fact, it’s instinct.
Why does a phone call do this? Because it goes against what we’re taught as kids — don’t bother strangers, don’t interrupt, get along with everyone. Back in cave-people times, sticking with your group meant survival, and breaking social rules was bad news. So when you pick up the phone to call someone you don’t know, your brain acts like you’re risking a whole lot more than a few awkward seconds.
What Actually Happens When You Make the Call
Most people fear the absolute worst happening when they dial:
The person picks up and screams at you.
They get so mad, they plan your demise.
Your boss finds out and you’re toast.
Truth is, after hundreds of thousands of calls, it almost never goes down like that. Here’s what’s way more likely:
No answer (this happens. a lot!)
Polite brush-off (“Not interested, thanks.”) — you live, you learn
Good conversation — they might even book a meeting or give you a referral
That nightmare scenario? It’s super rare. Instead of thinking about the worst, try focusing on what can go right. You didn’t get into this for the rejections — you’re in sales to win: closing deals, making commission, helping people, and maybe buying that thing you’ve been eyeing for months.
Be Sold On What You’re Selling
Believing in your product or service is huge. If you know for real that what you sell can help people, you’re not just bothering them — you’re offering something that might make their day. It’s like someone said: these days, people are more scared to answer a call from an unknown number than you are to make it. When they pick up, you’re the one with the plan.
If you:
Do your research
Have something actually useful
Can explain why this call matters...
You have a shot at making someone’s best call of the day.
Misconception | Reality |
|---|---|
They’ll get angry | Most won’t answer or will say no nicely |
You’re bothering them | You could be solving a problem |
You need to be perfect | You just need to keep trying |
Practicing Until It’s Normal
Here’s the part nobody likes: you have to practice. Go too long without calling, and nerves creep back in. But if you’re making calls every day, your brain and your hands get used to it. It actually does get easier.
Practice can look like:
Setting aside a "power hour" daily for calls
Role-playing with a coworker (yes, it’s awkward)
Regularly reviewing what works and what doesn’t
It won’t be fun at first, but the more you do it, the less you freeze up. Over time, the fear shrinks and your skills get better.
Quick Tricks to Make Calls Less Awful
Just before you hit "dial," these little hacks really help:
Stand up — you’ll sound more relaxed and confident
Smile — even if you fake it, people can hear a smile
Move around — it’ll trick your brain into feeling less stuck
Listen to a song that hypes you up (Thunderstruck, anyone?)
Fun fact: You sound 73% more charming just by standing up and smiling! (Okay, maybe not, but it sure feels true.)
Final Thoughts
You’re going to have good days and bad days with cold calling. But embracing the discomfort and just going for it — that’s where the wins come from. Remember, it’s just a phone, not a snake. Nobody ever got bitten by dialing a number. And hey, even if you mess up, nobody’s going to remember it tomorrow.
Stand tall, crank up your anthem, and don’t forget to fail forward. You’re not risking your life, you’re just making a call.