Final answer:
Cold calling is a strategy used in business networking to establish contact with potential clients or employers, involving research, targeting key decision-makers, and crafting a persuasive pitch. An effective elevator pitch and following up with persistence are critical elements of this approach, and leveraging personal connections can further improve success rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'calls that you make to establish contact with potential customers and find out whether you'd want to work with them' describes the process of cold calling, which is a technique used in sales and networking to initiate contact with potential clients or employers. Cold calling often involves a strategic approach where you research companies of interest, create a target list of key decision-makers, and develop a pitch that focuses on their needs. It's also essential to be resourceful in finding contact information and to follow up persistently on your initial outreach. A professional approach to cold calling can greatly enhance your chances of building professional relationships and discovering job opportunities.
Additionally, having a well-crafted elevator pitch can be invaluable when making these calls or when meeting potential employers to ensure a concise and effective introduction. It's recommended to clearly state your intent and what you would like from the listener, as in expressing a desire to meet and discuss mutual interests or offering a fresh perspective. If possible, connecting through a referral or someone the potential employer trusts can significantly increase the probability of a successful outcome.