Cold callers: got 27 seconds?

My team leader wants us to say "do you have 27 seconds" as part of our opening, but I've heard that phrase floating around so much that I wonder if it's played out. What do you think?

Do you ask for 27 seconds?

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📞 Cold Calling
3
SalesSpectre
Opinionated
5
AE
It all boils down to what works. I think the 27 seconds gets a lot of flak but lots of reps use it and don't get hung up on immediately and get an opportunity to "pitch" their stuff. 

"I personally go with..."good morning this is {my-name} at {my-company}..I know im interrupting but mind if I share why I decided to call you if I promise to give you the short version?"

Can't remember the last time I was hung up on
JuicyKlay
Celebrated Contributor
0
AM
I love this line! Thanks for sharing friend!
ElCapitanoMan
Acclaimed Answer
2
Solutions Consultant
I would say as long as you have some type of ask so you get permission to pitch, you're fine.

I think the 27 second thing became popular because it's somewhat of a pattern interrupt. Like "27 seconds? That's an interesting number." As long as you can calmly deliver your opener and ask to continue talking, I don't think you need a gimmicky line like asking for 27 seconds. Could totally see it be useful for more junior reps.
Smithy
Politicker
1
Director of Sales
I think the whole 27 seconds thing is overused now and that's when it starts to become gimmicky and meh. Using pattern interrupts, in general, can be exceptionally useful, but you need to find something other than 27 seconds nowadays, IMO
ColdCall
Valued Contributor
1
Account Executive
I find just launching into the elevator pitch works. Asking permission gives them an out. Most people will listen and if your speaking to the right person have a clear pitch it should go well. 
BillyHoyle
Tycoon
1
Senior Account Executive
"Do you have a few moments?" is my go-to.
0
Senior Sales Development Representative
27 seconds to "LET YOU KNOW WHY I CALLED, then just let me know if this is even in your wheelhouse or if I'm even in the right department *chuckles* " lays out clear expectation to the prospect that you need 27 seconds to tell them WHY you are calling and you are setting up a FU call if they aren't the right person who handles that particular project. So you are not being gimmicky with 27 seconds. If you set out the expectation they will act as to help point you in the right direction even if you can't help that particular person out directly. And if you can from your elevator pitch even better!
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