A cold call script template you can actually say out loud
A cold call script needs four beats: a permission opener under ten seconds, a one-sentence reason you called them specifically, a question that starts a real conversation, and a clear ask for a meeting. The goal is a booked call, not a sale on the spot. Here is the full script, plus voicemail and gatekeeper versions.
Script 1: the full cold call, beat by beat
The opener, said at a normal speed, not a salesperson speed: "Hi [Name], this is [you] from [company]. You weren't expecting my call, so I'll be quick. Can I take 30 seconds to say why I called, and you decide if it's worth more?"
The reason, which must be about them, not you: "I called you specifically because [the trigger: I saw your post about chasing invoices, you're hiring a second rep, your reviews mention slow quotes]. We help [people like them] fix [that problem]."
The question that starts a conversation: "How are you handling [the problem] today?" Then stop talking. Whatever they say next is the real call.
The ask: "Sounds like it's worth a proper look. Are you open to 20 minutes Thursday, and if it's not useful you tell me to get lost?"
Script 2: the voicemail (under 20 seconds)
Voicemails rarely get callbacks, so do not ask for one. Use the voicemail to set up your email instead.
"Hi [Name], [you] from [company]. Calling about [the specific trigger], not a generic pitch. No need to call back. I'll send a two-line email today, and if it's interesting, just reply there. Thanks."
Script 3: the gatekeeper version
Honesty works better with gatekeepers than tricks do. They have heard every trick.
"Hi, this is [you] from [company]. I'm trying to reach whoever handles [the problem area]. Happy to tell you exactly why first, so you can decide if it's worth their time."
If they say send an email: "Will do. Whose name should I put on it so it doesn't read like spam?"
What do you say to common cold call objections?
One calm line each. If two of these in a row land flat, thank them and end the call.
- "Not interested": "Fair enough. One question before I go: is [problem] already handled, or just not a priority right now?"
- "Send me an email": "Will do. So it's not junk, what should it cover first: pricing or how it works?"
- "I don't have time": "Totally understand. Is Thursday at 2 better, or should I close your file? Either is fine."
- "We already use [competitor]": "Good choice. What would have to break for you to look at alternatives? I'll only follow up if that happens."
Let the team run this for you
Orbit's cold caller is Dex. He works a tagged calling list at a steady pace on your own Vapi number, only inside the hours you set, with a daily cap that defaults to 25 calls, a do-not-call list, and limited retries. Voice agents are off by default until you turn them on, every call is recorded with a transcript logged on the contact, and Dex discloses honestly if anyone asks whether he is an AI.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should a cold call opener be?+
Under ten seconds. Say who you are, admit the call is unexpected, and ask permission for 30 seconds. Asking permission flips the dynamic: instead of holding the line hostage, you handed them control, which is exactly why most people grant it.
What is the goal of a cold call?+
The goal of a cold call is to book a meeting, not to sell the product. Trying to close on a cold call forces you to pitch to someone unprepared to evaluate. Aim for one outcome: 20 minutes on the calendar with someone who agreed the problem is real.
Should you leave a voicemail on a cold call?+
Yes, but make it a setup for email rather than a callback request. A 15-second voicemail that names a specific trigger and promises a two-line email gets your message read. "Call me back" voicemails from strangers mostly get deleted.
How many cold calls should you make per day?+
For a solo founder, a steady block of 10 to 25 calls a day beats occasional 100-call binges. Consistency builds skill and keeps your pipeline fed. Set a number you can hit even on busy days, then protect that block on your calendar.
What do you say when someone says "not interested"?+
Stay calm and ask one clarifying question: "Is the problem already handled, or just not a priority right now?" The answers are different. "Handled" means move on. "Not a priority" means ask permission to check back next quarter, log it, and actually do it.
Put a steady caller on your list
Dex dials your tagged list on your own number, inside your hours, with a cap you control and your approval on the list. Free plan, no credit card.
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