You: Hi, this is [your name] with [your company name]. I’m trying to reach [lead’s first name]. Is he/she available?
If you get lucky, the gatekeeper will simply put you through. However, there’s a chance they say no or ask you what this is regarding. If they do, don’t lie and don’t pitch to the gatekeeper.
You: It’s regarding their [insert product category] tool. [first name of lead] the right person to talk to, right?
The above could get you an answer about whether this is the right decision-maker to talk to. And the name of a colleague if not. However, if you know this is the right person to reach out to. You can try the following line.
You: “I’ve got some information for them regarding [blend reason for calling and pain point a lead is facing]. I was going to send it via email, but I thought I better call and take a few minutes to explain before I do.”
Alternatively, if you haven’t been able to get through to the decision-maker and have already sent them an email.
You: I’m following up on an email I sent them earlier this week.
Or, if you want to double-check check you have the right email address, you can try saying the following and hope that the gatekeeper corrects a mistake.
You: I’ll try sending them an email. Is [insert lead first name]@[company name].com the correct address to reach them at?
If the gatekeeper tells you that the decision-maker is busy, don’t leave a message with them. Instead, confidently say that you will call back later.
You: Will they be occupied for long? I will call back at another time, such as later today or tomorrow. Can you recommend an ideal call-back time, please?”
End the call in a respectful manner by thanking the gatekeeper for their time and wishing them a pleasant day.