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Business Ideas: How to approach business owners for an idea extraction?
DB
DB
David Berman, Bootstrap Expert answered:

Your approach to building a business - first find a PROBLEM and then build a SOLUTION - is a wise one.

Keep in mind that I'm answering as a Business Owner who also works with Business Owners (as a coach) so my insights aren't speculation... This is real world stuff:

If you are dead-set on cold calling then here are some suggestions.

1. Have a reason for your call that focuses on the "what's in it for me" from the perspective of the owner. Consider that your call is really a first contact in your marketing to them... So use your understanding of your chosen niche.

2. Be prepared to encounter the Gate Keeper
Have a plan on how to get to the owner.
This article has some good ideas: http://www.leadjen.com/stickied/7-must-dos-to-get-past-the-gatekeeper/

3. If you get through to the owner be respectful of their time. If possible - ask only ONE question. Talk as little as possible. And take lots of notes.

Regarding a specific approach (aka your Strategy) and specific questions - I would need to know more about your goals.

And if you are open to other approaches (approaches other than cold calling) let's set up a quick call and I'll share some ideas with you.

Best of luck to you!
Cheers,
David

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