How to get clients without cold calling

If you read my last few blog posts, you would know that I’m starting a video content agency and I’m using these assignments as an opportunity to learn more about the outreach and sales side of growing a company like this, while also relating it to sales in any field. Today, I watched another YouTube video titled, How to get videography clients WITHOUT cold calling. I was interested in this video because I have always been under the impression that cold calling is the most effective prospecting method. I think that the process that he describes in the video is very powerful, and can be used in any industry. To put it simply, rather than sending mass emails, dms, and cold calls, he sends businesses personalized videos that describe the need he sees and how he can help them specifically. Let’s dive into the details. 

The first step in this process is generating a lead list. In his example, he created a list of 100 potential clients in his area and linked their websites and social media. He then went through and narrowed it down to the businesses that most need his services and would be most willing to say yes to a meeting. In the example, he picked the top 20 options. His point was that he won’t waste his time creating a video for someone who will not be a good fit and doesn’t actually need his service. 

Before he films the video, he spends time learning about each company. He learns about what they do, what their values are, their history with video content, and anything else that might be important. Once he has this information, he sits down in front of the camera and addresses the business owner directly. He explains to them that he noticed they don’t have a video on their website, and that he would love to help them tell their story. Their customers will be more willing to trust a business that showcases the people behind it and the mission rather than a generic company that only shows their products and services. He explains how he can help them and invites them to schedule a quick call with him to learn more. 

He talked about how much more effective this method was than cold calling, and I can see why. To start, he’s not putting them on the spot with a cold call that might not even reach a decision maker. A video is more likely to be passed along because it’s unique and personalized. Business owners will likely respond positively to it because it shows that you genuinely care about that business and helping them meet their specific needs. It shows dedication and empathy. 

I think that this method could be applied to a multitude of other industries as well. Especially for other similar services, a personalized video shows the company that you care and you are dedicated to doing a good job. Sales is all about building trust and relationships, and I think this is a great way to give them a good first impression.