Your Complete Guide to Cold Calling Software: 30+ Tools to Elevate Your Sales Game

It’s 2023, and the old ways of following up just won’t cut it anymore. 

Yeah, you’ve got a stockpile of the best aged leads, but they won’t be worth a dime if your follow-up game isn’t on point.

Forget the old-school follow-up. It’s time to step up your technology game, where cold-calling success is only a few clicks away.

Dive into our exhaustive list of 30+ cold calling software tools, handpicked for you to trial and triumph.

Ready to hit the ground running with a massive list of phone numbers to start calling? Browse our aged lead collection and start auto-dialing your way to success today!

What is cold calling software?

Cold calling isn’t just about having a phone and a list of numbers anymore. It’s much more sophisticated than that

You’ll need a host of cold calling software tools. Each one plays a significant role in helping you from initial outreach all the way to lead nurturing. 

The following are the different types of cold calling software along with our recommendations for the must-have apps to elevate your cold calling game.

1. CRM systems: These are your command centers, helping you manage and analyze customer interactions and data, an essential feature to streamline your sales process.
2. Auto dialers: Imagine being able to call multiple leads simultaneously, saving time, and increasing productivity; that’s what auto dialers offer.
3. Call recording tools: These tools are like your personal scribe, recording your calls to help review, analyze, and improve your strategies with real-life examples.
4. Analytics tools: Picture a tool that provides insights and data to help understand your lead’s behavior better and make informed decisions; that’s what analytics tools are for.
5. Script tools: Think of these as your scriptwriters, aiding in crafting compelling and engaging scripts to help navigate through conversations with leads effectively.
6. Lead nurturing and marketing automation tools: These are your nurturing grounds, automating marketing tasks and facilitating continuous engagement with your leads, keeping them warm and ready.
7. Appointment setting and calendar tools: Imagine having a personal assistant to manage all your appointments, ensuring smooth and timely follow-ups, these tools play that role.
8. Integration with CRM tools: This feature allows seamless integration with various CRM systems, ensuring that all your tools work harmoniously, enhancing efficiency.

The benefits of cold calling software for sales teams

Imagine being on the verge of closing a significant deal, and every tool you need to seal that deal is right at your fingertips, working seamlessly to bring you closer to your goal. 

That’s the realm cold calling software propels you into. 

It’s like having an extra set of hands on deck, specifically designed to bring out the best in your sales team. 

The benefits that cold calling software can bring you 

• Enhanced efficiency: Cold calling software slashes time spent on tasks like dialing numbers manually, giving your team extra hours to engage with potential clients. This tweak can rocket their productivity, translating to more sales in less time. For instance, did you know the best time to cold call is the last hour of the workday, between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.? 
• Improved lead management: This software sorts and ranks your leads, so your team knows exactly who to call next. It’s like having a roadmap to successful sales, ensuring no opportunity gets missed and potentially bumping up conversion rates. Sales reps can increase conversions by 70% by tracking and calling leads just a few more times.
• Streamlined sales process: Simplify the sales journey with this software by removing bumps in the road that slow down your team. It’s all about making the path from first contact to final sale slicker and quicker, potentially doubling or even tripling your sales revenue. 

Practice your cold-calling on a fresh batch of aged leads. 

8 key features of the best cold calling software

Every minute counts in your sales day, and having the right cold calling software can save you hours’ worth of busy work, allowing you to make more calls and forge more connections.

Picture a mortgage broker who can instantly access a client’s entire history and tailor their approach accordingly, all with a few clicks. 

This is precisely what cold calling software facilitates, blending technology and strategy seamlessly. 

In the following section, we’ll break down the most essential features of various types of cold calling software, from CRMs to auto-dialers, and everything in between, with our recommendations of the top software solutions for you to try for yourself.

1. CRM systems

CRM Integration forms the backbone of any sales operation, especially in the mortgage and insurance sectors where the nurturing of relationships and retention of customers is paramount. 

Imagine being a mortgage broker and having instant access to a lead’s previous interactions, preferences, and the status of their mortgage application at your fingertips. 

This kind of streamlined access means you can personalize your approach, potentially turning a lead into a sale with more efficiency.

The essential features of CRM systems

• Contact management: To maintain an organized database of client information.
• Interaction tracking: For recording every interaction with leads or clients.
• Lead management: To keep track of potential sales opportunities.
• Lead scoring: Automatically ranks your prospects by their potential value and likelihood to convert. 

Best CRM tools for cold calling

1. Salesforce: A comprehensive CRM tool that offers a range of features including lead management and analytics.
2. HubSpot CRM: A popular free CRM tool that integrates well with various marketing tools.
3. Zoho CRM: Known for its user-friendliness and range of customization options.
4. Microsoft Dynamics 365: A comprehensive CRM tool offering integration with various Microsoft products.
5. Pipedrive: Focuses on sales management and pipeline management.

2. Auto dialers

In the high-stakes world of insurance sales, time is of the essence. An auto dialer helps you reach a larger audience in a shorter span, thereby amplifying the chances of conversions and saving precious time.

Consider an insurance agent who can automate calls to potential clients, filtering out busy signals and voicemails, thereby ensuring that they only spend time talking to actual people, thus optimizing their workday for maximum productivity.

Essential features of auto-dialers

• Sequential dialing: To call a list of numbers in a sequence automatically.
• Predictive dialing: For calling multiple numbers at once and connecting to the first available recipient.
• Call monitoring: To supervise and assess the quality of calls.
• Local presence dialing: Allows the display of a local phone number to increase answer rates.
• Voicemail drop: Enables the automatic leaving of pre-recorded voicemails, saving time. For more tips, read Insurance Voicemail Script Tips.
• Skill-based routing: Directs calls to agents based on their expertise, optimizing customer interactions.
• Real-time analytics: Offers instant insights into call performance, aiding in data-driven decision-making.
• CRM integration: Simplifies the management of customer data by integrating with existing CRM systems.

Best auto-dialer tools

1. DialedIn: A dynamic auto-dialer tool that accelerates outbound calling, enhancing productivity.
2. PhoneBurner: Speeds up the dialing process, reducing dead time between calls.
3. Five9: A cloud-based call center software equipped with advanced dialer capabilities.
4. RingCentral: Offers VOIP services with features like call recording and analytics.
5. Aircall: A cloud-based phone system with call recording and analytics features.
6. Dialpad: Offers VOIP services with integrated AI for analytics and insights.
7. CallRail: A call tracking and analytics tool with recording capabilities.

3. Call recording

Call recording tools are invaluable in the sales sector, particularly in areas like auto sales or mortgages, as they facilitate the recording of calls to help train sales teams and maintain quality control.

For example, a mortgage advisor can review recorded calls to analyze the preferences and objections of potential clients, thus refining their sales pitch to be more effective in future interactions.

Essential features of call recording tools

• Call recording and playback: Allows sales teams to record and replay calls for training purposes or to improve sales techniques.
• Compliance management: Ensures that the call recording practices adhere to the legal regulations and industry standards. For example, in the insurance industry, you must comply with privacy and consent laws to avoid potential legal issues. 

Best call recording tools

1. CallRail: Provides insights into call origins and facilitates easy call log retrieval, ideal for refining sales strategies.
2. RingCentral: A cloud-based solution focused on efficient call recording storage and management, essential for understanding customer preferences.
3. OrecX: Offers both on-premise and cloud-based call recording, supporting compliance and quality control in the finance and insurance sectors.
4. Verint: Integrates call recording with analytics and workforce optimization, designed for data-driven large-scale operations.
5. Kixie: A CRM-integrated tool that streamlines client information tracking, especially beneficial in the real estate and insurance sectors.
6. Aircall: A cloud phone system that simplifies call recording and logging, integrating seamlessly with various CRM tools to enhance sales strategies in the auto sales sector.
7. Five9: Specializes in call recording with a focus on analytics and workforce optimization, well-suited for dynamic sales environments like mortgage sales.

4. Analytics tools

Analytics tools are essential for salespeople, especially in the mortgage or insurance sectors, to gather and analyze data on customer interactions and sales trends. 

For instance, a mortgage salesperson could use analytics tools to track the success rate of their calls and fine-tune their strategies accordingly.

Essential features of analytics tools

• Real-time analytics: Allows sales teams to monitor and analyze data on customer interactions as they happen.
• Performance tracking: Helps in evaluating the effectiveness of sales strategies and individual salesperson performance.

Best analytics tools 

1. Google Analytics: A tool mainly for website analytics but can be integrated with CRM for call tracking analytics.
2. Tableau: Can integrate with various databases to create visualizations and reports for call data.
3. Kissmetrics: A customer analytics tool that can track customer interactions including calls.
4. Mixpanel: Allows for analysis of customer communications including calls.
5. Google Looker: A data exploration tool that can integrate with CRM systems for analytics.

Purchase aged leads and start cold calling now. 

5. Script tools

Script tools are the backbone of a solid sales strategy, helping sales personnel in the mortgage or insurance sector to communicate effectively with potential clients. 

For instance, an insurance agent might use a script tool to help craft a personalized message to a client about policy benefits and features. 

Essential features of script tools

• Customizable scripts: Allows you to craft messages to suit individual client needs, such as specific concerns for first-time home buyers.
• A/B testing: Helps you determine the most effective sales script by comparing similar, but different versions. For example, an insurance agent could refine their pitch by determining which script elements were the most engaging.

Best script tools

1. Zingtree: Allows for the creation of script trees for customer service and sales scripts.
2. CrazyCall: A browser-based calling software that allows for script integration.
3. Balto: Offers real-time guidance for agents, including script adherence tracking.
4. Gong.io:  Utilizes AI to analyze calls and suggest script improvements.
5. Outreach: A comprehensive platform offering script templates and tracking.
6. Five9: A cloud-based contact center solution offering dynamic script tools to guide sales conversations.
7. Velocify: Streamlines sales workflow with intelligent script guidance, driving efficient sales conversions.

6. Lead Nurturing and Marketing Automation Tools

Lead nurturing and marketing automation tools are instrumental in cultivating potential leads in sectors like auto sales or mortgages, fostering relationships through automated yet personalized communication channels. 

For example, in the mortgage sector, these tools can help maintain regular contact with potential clients, sharing updates on mortgage rates or market trends.

Essential features of lead nurturing and marketing automation tools

• Email campaign automation: Allows the automatic sending of personalized, timely email sequences to engage leads at various stages.
• Lead scoring and segmentation: Facilitates the categorization of leads based on engagement levels and preferences for targeted marketing.

Best lead nurturing and marketing automation tools

1. Marketo (by Adobe): A comprehensive marketing automation tool with features for lead nurturing.
2. Mailchimp: Offers email marketing services that can be used for lead nurturing.
3. HubSpot Marketing: Part of the HubSpot suite, this tool offers comprehensive lead nurturing capabilities.
4. Intercom: Allows for customer messaging and can be utilized for lead nurturing.
5. ActiveCampaign: A tool focusing on customer experience automation including email marketing and lead nurturing.

7. Appointment setting and calendar integration

Setting up appointments for mortgages and insurance sales automatically will ensure your sales journey remains smooth and timely, without any delays. 

Many of these solutions can be implemented into your website where visitors can schedule a time that works based on your schedule. 

Essential features of appointment setting and calendar integration

• Automated reminders: Helps in reducing no-shows by automatically sending reminders to both the salesperson and the client.
• Integration with existing tools: Allows for a smooth scheduling process by incorporating it with tools already in use, such as CRM systems or email platforms.

Best appointment setting and calendar integration tools

1. Microsoft Bookings: A versatile tool facilitating seamless scheduling and management of appointments.
2. Calendly: A popular tool for scheduling meetings and integrating with various calendars.
3. Acuity Scheduling: Allows for easy appointment scheduling with various integrations.
4. Doodle: A tool mainly used for scheduling group meetings.
5. ScheduleOnce (Now OnceHub): Offers comprehensive appointment scheduling capabilities.
6. Chili Piper: Focuses on helping businesses convert leads into confirmed meetings.

8. Integration with CRM systems

In the modern sales landscape, integration is king. 

Imagine a toolbox where each tool complements the other, creating a powerhouse of efficiency and intelligence; that’s the beauty and power of integrating cold calling software tools with CRM systems. 

It’s like having a well-oiled, synchronized machine driving your sales forward, united in purpose and function.

Let’s consider an auto sales agent gearing up for a day of reaching out to prospective clients. The agent uses a dialer tool to streamline the calling process, but the true magic happens when this dialer tool can communicate seamlessly with the CRM system in place. 

The agent can not only dial numbers swiftly but also have all the pertinent information about the client pop up from the CRM database, creating a harmonious flow of data and insights.

Essential CRM integration features

• Unified database: Ensure all data from various tools are consolidated in one place, making it easier to track and manage leads.
• Real-time updates: Have information from different tools updated in the CRM system in real time, enabling timely decisions and strategies.
• Automated workflows: Create workflows that traverse various tools, automating repetitive tasks and freeing up time for agents.
• Comprehensive reporting: Pull data from various tools into the CRM for a comprehensive view of performance metrics and insights.

Best tools that integrate well with CRM systems

1. Zapier: Allows for the integration of various tools with CRM systems, facilitating smooth data flow and automation.
2. Microsoft Power Automate: Helps in creating automated workflows between your apps and services to get notifications, synchronize files, collect data, and more.
3. Make/Integromat: A powerful integration tool that connects apps with complex scenarios and visualizations.

Integrating SMS text messages into your cold-calling strategy

In your experience of cold calling, you’ve probably noticed certain younger demographics, such as millennials, “don’t do phone calls.” Instead, they’re more keen to receive text messages.

By implementing SMS strategies alongside cold calling, your sales team can create a multi-faceted approach, nurturing leads more effectively and efficiently. 

As the landscape of sales evolves, blending traditional cold-calling tactics with modern SMS strategies might just be the key to staying ahead in 2023.

Benefits of using SMS messaging apps

• Instant follow-ups: After a cold call, sending a succinct SMS can encapsulate the key points discussed, fostering a stronger connection with the potential client.
• Appointment reminders: Utilize SMS services to send appointment reminders, especially effective in the mortgage and insurance sectors where keeping track of meetings is vital.
• Personalized marketing: SMS allows for more personal and direct marketing, enhancing the potential of converting leads, especially when targeting demographics accustomed to text communication.

Best text messaging apps for cold calling

1. Twilio: A cloud-based service that allows for seamless SMS integration with various CRM and dialer systems.
2. ClickSend: Offers robust SMS marketing tools, integrating seamlessly with a range of CRM systems.
3. SimpleTexting: A user-friendly tool that can be utilized for sending bulk SMS, perfect for sales campaigns.
4. TextMagic: Allows businesses to send bulk SMS campaigns, offering features like SMS scheduling and personalization.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cold-calling software

Have questions about cold-calling software? We’ve got answers. 

What is the best cold calling software for a newbie in sales?

If you’re just starting, you might want to explore HubSpot or Freshsales. They are user-friendly and offer comprehensive features to get you started.

Can I find a cold-calling software that integrates with my existing CRM?

Absolutely, most cold calling software options, including RingCentral and Aircall, offer smooth integrations with popular CRM systems.

How do SMS and cold calling work together in sales strategies?

SMS serves as a quick follow-up or reminder tool, complementing your cold-calling strategy by fostering immediate and personal connections with leads.

Do cold calling software tools offer features for managing aged leads?

Yes, many tools have lead management features that can help you effectively nurture and follow up with aged leads to potentially revitalize them.

Is there a one-stop solution that encompasses all cold calling software features?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all tool, some comprehensive solutions like Salesforce and Zoho come pretty close, bundling multiple features like CRM, auto-dialer, and analytics into one platform.

TL;DR: What is the most important cold calling software option that will fit most of my needs? 

There isn’t one software program that can dominate every aspect of cold calling, however, a few cold-calling apps have consistently appeared as top contenders across various categories.

Here are our top picks of the most important cold-calling programs to try out today. 

The ranking is based on the comprehensive range of features, their prominence in the sales industry, and their ability to manage aged leads and streamline sales processes:

1. Salesforce: A CRM powerhouse that integrates seamlessly with various cold calling tools, also offers analytics and lead nurturing capabilities.
2. HubSpot: A comprehensive CRM platform with strong lead nurturing and marketing automation tools.
3. RingCentral: A versatile solution offering CRM integration, call recording, and analytics.
4. Zoho: A unified platform offering a range of products, including CRM, script tools, and marketing automation capabilities, tailored to streamline business processes and customer engagement.
5. Five9: A cloud contact center solution with robust features including scripting tools and analytics.

Supercharge your cold calling with Aged Lead Store’s premium leads 

For over two decades, the Aged Lead Store has been at the forefront, evolving and refining the art of connecting financial services firms with the most qualified and motivated prospects. 

Operating in 48 states, we have tirelessly built the largest, top-quality, and most diverse inventory of aged internet leads, making it significantly easier and cost-effective for agents to expand their clientele. 

We offer the following types of aged leads:

• Auto Insurance Leads
• Health Insurance Leads
• Life Insurance/Final Expense Leads
• Homeowners Insurance Leads
• health Supplement Leads
• Mortgage Leads
• Home Improvement Leads
• Solar Installation Leads

Explore the Aged Lead Store’s collection of leads now to purchase bulk leads that will resonate with your business goals.