Definition
Cold Call: A telephone call, usually for sales purposes, made to someone who is not known to the caller and who is not expecting a call. These calls often use computerized lists of phone numbers and are widely considered a major nuisance.
Synonyms
- Telemarketing calls
- Unsolicited calls
- Spam calls
- Nuisance calls
- Robo-calls
Similar Terms
- Junk mail (in written communication)
- Door-to-door sales (in person sales visit)
- Email spam (digital communication)
Related Expressions
- “Catching someone cold”
- “Out of the blue”
- “Blindside”
Example in a Sentence
“Just as I sat down for dinner, the cold call from another robot voice offering me a free vacation was the last straw.”
Humor-Filled Quotes
“Cold calling is like knocking on a stranger’s door hoping they’re in the mood to buy a vacuum cleaner.” – Anonymous
Proverbs and Old Sayings
- “The cobbler always wears the worst shoes,” reflects the idea that cold calls often yield uncomfortable situations for both sides.
- “Strike while the iron is hot,” indicates the exact opposite strategy to cold calling – waiting for the right moment.
Literature and Films
- Books: “To Sell Is Human” by Daniel H. Pink; while not entirely about cold calls, this book dives into the world of sales psychology.
- Movies: “Glengarry Glen Ross” by David Mamet, shows some old-school sales tactics – minus the digital lists, but intense in its own right.
- Songs: Any song about miscommunication or unwelcome interruptions can put you in the mood to understand a cold call better – “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham! anyone?
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Cold calls might seem a mere nuisance, but they harbor lessons in resilience, creativity, and the art of persuasion. As you navigate through these clichés, remember: The next time an unexpected caller tries to sell you something, you might just land your next entertaining anecdote.
