The predictive dialer can detect when a live person answers the phone. As soon as the call connects, the resident has already greeted you and is waiting for your response. This may contribute to dead air calls, as the respondent may have already hung up if the call isn't connected to a live agent right away, leaving only silence when the call reaches you.
Once the call is connected, it's your responsibility to smoothly transition into your scripted introduction. To avoid stumbling, it's best to thoroughly practice and study the script before live dialing begins. Avoid repeatedly saying "Hello" - the transition from the call being answered to your introduction should be seamless and professional.
Most of our scripts require asking for a specific registered voter. However, the gatekeeper (not the intended party) may sometimes ask who is calling and the purpose of the call. In these cases, provide the following information politely: your first name, who you're calling on behalf of (as stated in your script), and the reason for the call. If the gatekeeper declines to receive these types of calls, honor their request and mark the call as Do Not Call.
Remain courteous with all callers, even if they refuse to engage or become verbally abusive. If a caller uses profanity or is hostile, end the call immediately by saying "Thank you for your time," disposition it as Do Not Call, and notify your supervisor. Always be mindful of your tone, pace, and volume to ensure a positive interaction.
Quickly identify and disposition non-productive calls, such as answering machines, dead air, wrong numbers, and unavailable parties. Avoid speaking on an open line - utilize your mute button and disconnect calls quickly when no voter is present.