10 Foolproof Tips For Getting Past Gatekeepers

Don’t assume the gatekeeper is only the gatekeeper.

Many times the gatekeeper is the decision maker; they are just not going to let you know they fill that role. If in doubt, ask them the same questions you would if you knew you were talking with the decision maker.

Social Media To Find Other Contacts

Leverage social media to find other contacts within the company.

As I like to say, if the front door is closed, simply find another door where you can enter.

Social Media For Direct Contact

Contact the decision maker directly through social media such as Linkedin.

If you use this approach, your strategy must be 100% focused on what the prospect would feel is important to them. If you come across as simply selling or pitching them, they have every reason to cut you off at the knees.

Call Them At Lunch

Use the telephone during non-normal hours such as before 8 AM or after 5 PM or even during lunch.

If you’re being blocked by a traditional gatekeeper, remember they too have work hours and take lunch. Working around their schedule will many times get you connected.

Holiday Cheer

Use the holidays to your advantage.

We’re fast approaching the holidays, which means many companies go into slow mode. This means people who would not normally answer the telephone or respond to an email will suddenly have time to do so.

Leverage Multiple Channels

Use multiple methods to reach the person.

I’m always amazed at how many salespeople say they only use email to prospect.   The phone works great too… use it!

Contact Another Division

Reach out and contact another division of the same company

to find a contact who may in turn route you directly to the person you’re trying to reach.

Contact Sales

Contact the sales department of the company you’re trying to reach.

I love this approach and the results are amazing. When you contact the sales department, you will most likely be connected to a new salesperson who will be more than willing to help if they feel you will do the same for them. This approach is a quid pro quo route, but I’ve rarely found it to not work.

Treat Administrative Assistants Like Decision Makers

When dealing with an administrative assistant, treat them the same as you would the decision maker by asking them the same questions you would the decision maker.

The admin is trained to block people from the people they support unless they have real value. You show your value by engaging with them in the exact same way as you would the decision maker.

Call After Hours

Call after hours and use the automated response system to connect with the voicemail box of the person you’re trying to reach.

I agree it is not the live phone call you’re looking for, but several very good voicemails can go a long way to having the decision maker see it might be in their interest to not have the gatekeeper keep you out.

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