STIR/SHAKEN Explained for Outbound Sales Teams
STIR/SHAKEN is an important framework designed to combat the rising concern over spam and fraudulent calls, particularly affecting outbound sales teams. Understanding how STIR/SHAKEN operates is crucial for businesses that rely on outbound sales calls, as it directly impacts call authentication, number reputation, and ultimately, answer rates.
What is STIR/SHAKEN?
STIR (Secure Telephone Identity Revisited) and SHAKEN (Signature-Based Handling of Asserted Information Using toKENs) are a set of protocols implemented to authenticate calls made over the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. Essentially, these protocols help ensure that calls are coming from the numbers they claim to represent, which helps to reduce call spoofing and improve consumer confidence in answering calls.
Why Does Call Authentication Matter?
For outbound sales teams, call authentication through STIR/SHAKEN is not just a regulatory requirement; it greatly influences how calls are perceived by the recipients. Calls that are authenticated are less likely to be labeled as spam, which directly correlates with higher answer rates. When potential customers see a verified call, they are more likely to pick up, leading to better engagement and more sales opportunities.
How STIR/SHAKEN Affects Your Outbound Calling Strategy
Incorporating STIR/SHAKEN into your outbound calling strategy can significantly enhance your operations. Here are some key effects:
- Improved Number Reputation: Authenticating calls helps maintain and improve your number’s reputation, decreasing the chances of being blacklisted as spam.
- Higher Answer Rates: With better authentication, customers are more likely to answer your calls, boosting connection rates.
- Operational Efficiency: Understanding and implementing STIR/SHAKEN reduces the risk of lost calls due to spam labeling, streamlining your team’s outreach efforts.
Best Practices for Implementing STIR/SHAKEN
To effectively utilize STIR/SHAKEN, consider the following best practices for your outbound sales team:
- Gradual Number Warm-Up: New outbound numbers should be gradually introduced to your calling campaigns. A sudden spike in call volume can trigger spam filters.
- Register Your Numbers: Ensure that your outbound numbers are registered with relevant directories, which can strengthen their credibility.
- Monitor Call Activity: Keep track of call metrics, such as answer rates and feedback from your recipients to gauge the effectiveness of your approach.
How ProspectBoss Supports STIR/SHAKEN Compliance
ProspectBoss offers features that align with STIR/SHAKEN compliance, enhancing your outbound calling efforts. This includes:
- Controlled Outbound Calling: Manage your calling campaigns efficiently while adhering to best practices.
- Caller ID Management: Control how your number appears to recipients, enhancing trust.
- Analytics and Performance Visibility: Gain insights into call performance and operational efficiency, enabling informed decision-making.
Conclusion
Understanding STIR/SHAKEN and its implications is essential for outbound sales teams looking to improve their calling strategies and performance. By implementing effective call authentication practices, you can significantly enhance your number’s reputation and answer rates. If you want to see how ProspectBoss can support your outbound calling needs and improve your sales strategies, Schedule A Demo.
