Sales Scripts Best Practices

I see a lot posts that are not in favor of using a sales script and I can't help but think that maybe the definition of a sales script should be defined a little. Early on in my sales career I was given a sales script along with heavy training to make it work. And work it did.

Maybe we should develop a "best practices" for developing / using a sales script....

Best Practice 1: Set Objectives First - know what you want to accomplish.

Best Practice 2: Build a Roadmap (Script) to Complete Objectives - make sure each phase of the script is leading you towards your objectives.

Best Practice 3: Be Transparent to Win Customers - practice your script / role play and get it sounding smooth and natural. Record yourself, role play with colleagues etc. You shouldn't have to read it word for word. If you do, it just means you haven't put the time in yet.

Best Practices 4: Listen and Adapt to Each Individual Prospect - A script is a guide, not the gospel. When you combine a solid script with your sales skills / talent, its a winning combination.

Best Practice 5: Measure and Adjust - Nothing ever stays the same. The more calls you make, the more you'll learn from them and you can make adjustments to your words and tone.