07/22/2026
A strange thing happens in business.
We make cold calls because we need clients.
We send messages because we need opportunities.
We follow up because we are trying to grow.
But when another business calls us to promote their service, our first reaction may be:
“Not interested.”
“I’m busy.”
“Why are they calling me?”
Sometimes, we may even feel annoyed.
It made me think about how often this happens in life.
We want people to support our business, but we may quickly ignore someone else trying to build theirs.
We want customers to give us a chance, but we may not always give another person even thirty seconds to explain what they offer.
We want people to understand our struggle, while forgetting that the person calling us may also be trying to pay bills, support a family, build a career, or keep a small business alive.
Of course, not every sales call is relevant. Some calls are poorly timed, too aggressive, or simply not useful.
But perhaps there is still room for kindness.
A polite “No, thank you” takes only a few seconds.
A helpful referral could change someone’s week.
And sometimes, the service we were ready to reject may actually solve a problem we have been ignoring.
Business teaches us more than sales and profit.
It teaches us patience, empathy, humility, and the importance of treating people the way we hope our own customers will treat us.
Business owners, be honest:
How do you feel when another business cold-calls you?
Do you feel annoyed, curious, understanding—or does it depend entirely on how they approach you?
Share your honest opinion below.
