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tags: A2, 02, Foundations
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# 1. Opening: How to nail the first minute of your cold call

Now that you've seen the general structure of a cold call, it's time to zoom into the first phase: openings.

The opening is all about connecting with your prospect and getting permission to start a conversation. As you have already learned, this is the part of the conversation where you will do most of the talking.
- It typically lasts 30 to 60 seconds.
- Since you are in full control over what you are saying, this is also the part that you can prepare for best.
- By nailing this section, you ideally set yourself up for the highest chances of success in having a positive conversation that follows.

Listen up for Dom's best practice guidelines 👇

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## Example

We know how much you love examples, so here is the one Dom used in case you want to save it for your notes.


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## Practical Tips

### Make it about them
When you state the reason for your call, do not fall into the trap by simply giving a standard definition of what your company does, like "We are a software company that does ABC". **Nobody cares what you do.**

The only thing the other person cares about is their challenges and objectives. So when you explain what your company does, do it in the context of challenges you help customers solve and what value you deliver.

Try something like:

> "We see you're growing at a fast pace. Many of our customers are in the same situation and we've seen they struggle to hire great sales talent... is this the case for you?"

### Adapt to your culture

A word of caution on how you greet people on the phone. While it is widely accepted to call people in the US by their first name ("Hi Frank"), in Europe people may feel offended this way, especially in a business context. In the DACH region, it is safer to choose a formal greeting like "Hi Mr. Last Name". Use your best judgement on how to adress people depending on the place you're callling.

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