Mock cold call interview: a short script and a one week practice plan
Asked to make a mock cold call in an AE or other sales interview loop? This page gives you a script and a practice plan. Applying for an SDR or BDR role? Use the SDR mock cold call guide.
Interviewers use a mock cold call to see how you open. They also see how you handle a quick no. Stay calm. They do not need a perfect pitch.
A short script
- Open: "Hi [name], it is [your name] from [company]. Is this a bad time?"
- Reason: "I am calling because [one specific reason]. I work with [similar companies] on [problem]."
- Question: "How are you handling [problem] today?"
- Next step: "Would a 15-minute call on [day] help?"
Keep the whole call under two minutes unless the buyer is engaged.
What interviewers score
- Opening. Clear, short and relevant to the buyer.
- Response to a brush-off. Calm, with a question, not an argument.
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Handling the first no
If the buyer says "not interested", reply with one sentence and one question: "Understood. Is it a low priority, or is it already covered?"
If they say no again, thank them and end the call politely.
One week of practice
- Day 1: write the script in your own words.
- Day 2: say it aloud ten times.
- Day 3: record yourself and listen back.
- Day 4: practise with a friend who objects.
- Day 5: handle three different objections.
- Day 6: do a full mock with a timer.
- Day 7: rest and review notes.
Common mistakes
- Reading from a page.
- Pitching features instead of asking a question.
- Arguing with the objection.
See also the role play interview guide and AE interview questions. When an offer arrives, read how to negotiate sales OTE.
Next step: get the free guide to Amazon's 16 Leadership Principles for a sales interview.
Questions
What is a mock cold call in an interview?
You call the interviewer, who plays a buyer. They score your opening and how you respond to a brush-off.
How do I prepare for a mock cold call?
Write a four-line script, say it aloud, record yourself and practise with a friend who objects.
How long should a mock cold call last?
Under two minutes unless the buyer is engaged. Aim for a clear open and a next step.
Also: sales role play interview, why did you leave your last sales job, SDR mock cold call interview.
Related guides
Sales role play interview
Three scenarios and a structure for each.
Account Executive interview questions
The common questions, what each one tests and how to answer well.
How to negotiate sales OTE
Pay mix, quota realism, accelerators and a two-offer worked example.
Run your search like a pipeline
A Notion kit for sellers changing roles. It has a target list and a pipeline board with follow-ups due. It also has recruiter scripts, negotiation scripts and an offer calculator for year-one pay. £14, one payment, plus VAT for UK and EU buyers.
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