Telephone techniques to make the right connection

Responding to a job posting

Hi Ken, I'm Benoit Rungeard. Fabien Lamotte from the France office told me that I should talk to you concerning the job opening for a director of Communications. I'm a seasoned communications professional with international experience. I looked into your requirements for the job and I think I'm a good fit. I'd be glad to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience. When would it be a good time for you?

Navigating around the Assistant/Receptionist

Good morning, this is Benoit Rungeard. May I speak to Mr Donovan, please. I was referred to him by Michele.

Nature of the call?

Yes, Ms Michele suggested I set up an appointment to see Mr Donovan . She recommended that I get his input on a strategy I've been working on.

What kind of strategy is it about

It's very simple, I'm looking for information about top PR agencies and Ms Michele suggested that Mr Donovan would be a very good source of information and advices.

Be more specific

Well, I'd love to tell you more about my research but at that point I'd rather keep this confidential. I hope you don't mind.

What company are you with?

I'm an independent consultant in the high tech sector. So my own company

Someone else who can help you

That might be possible, but Ms Michele insisted that I should get Mr Donovan's input first. Is it possible to speak with him now?

Can he get back to you?

That would be terrific. But it might be difficult for him to reach me since I'm in and out a lot. Is there a time when he does not have a scheduled meeting or appointment? When is the best time to call again?

Something I can help you with?

I appreciate your offer to help me. If you make appointments for Mr Donovan, perharps you would schedule an appointment for me on the basis of Ms Michele's recommendation.

Persistence in Making the Appointment

Good morning Mr Donovan. This is Benoit. Michele from Schlumberger, suggested I set up a meeting with you. I'm a seasoned communications professional in the corporate world and I'm currently exploring new career opportunities on the agency side. I'd really appreciate 20 minutes with you to get feedback on my plans. I'd be glad to see when it's convenient for you.

What is it about?

I'm a seasoned communications professional in the corporate world and I'm currently exploring new career opportunities on the agency side. Michele thought you would be a good person to discuss my plan with and perhaps get some ideas. I should add, she gave me no reason to believe that you had an open position or even known of one. What I need is feedback. Would you have some time later this week when we could meet?

Can you be more specific

Of course, what I'm looking for is to know from a professional like you, what are the skills and knowledge you value in your area of expertise. I'm really looking for advice and information that will help me to make the transition.

I'm not sure I can help you

You might be right, I'm not sure either. But Michele spoke highly of your expertise and knowledge in the communications / PR agency business

The best for you is to call HR

I would be glad to talk to your HR department about employment possibilities or contracting, if it turns out that my skills could be a good match for your company. But what I'm really looking for is information and advice from an expert like you that will help me to transition in this field.

I'm extremely busy

I know you're busy. But I would be happy to set up a date any time you can make it. The meeting will be short and I'll be prepared.

What's your goal

Well, I've experience of all aspects of Corporate and Marketing Communications activities, and I'm skilled for customer relationships and build new business. So the agency is a natural option for me, a place where I can contribute the most.