Corstorphine in Bloom – Business Phone Script

1️⃣ Opening (20 seconds – warm and respectful)

“Hello, is that the manager or owner?

My name is — I’m calling from Corstorphine in Bloom, a local community project working with the council to improve our shopping streets with planters and hanging baskets.”

(Pause. Let them respond.)

2️⃣ The Hook (Why it matters to them)

“We’re bringing together local businesses and volunteers to make St John’s Road and surrounding areas brighter and more attractive.

The aim is simple — improve the look of the street, increase footfall, and show pride in the area.”

3️⃣ What You’re Asking (Keep it Simple)

“At the moment we’re asking businesses to register their interest. There are four simple ways to be involved:

• Receive our newsletter
• Have hanging baskets installed
• Sponsor a planter
• Or support volunteers with occasional access to water

Costs will only be confirmed once the council confirms funding.”

4️⃣ Reduce Fear / Barriers

“There’s no commitment at this stage — we just need to show the council there is business support.

The more businesses involved, the more backing we’re likely to receive.”

5️⃣ Close Clearly

“Would you be happy for me to send you the link to register your interest? It only takes a minute.”

If yes:

“Brilliant — can I confirm your email address?”

If hesitant:

“No problem at all — I can get someone to pop in with a short leaflet if that’s easier.”

🧠 If They Ask Questions

❓ “How much will it cost?”

“We don’t yet know — it depends on council support. We’re working to keep costs as low as possible.”

❓ “Who’s behind this?”

“It’s supported by the five local parks groups and the Community Council. We’re volunteers — there’s no paid staff.”

❓ “Who looks after the plants?”

“Local volunteers. The idea is lots of people doing a little.”

❓ “What if they get vandalised?”

“That’s always a risk, but experience elsewhere shows well-looked-after areas tend to suffer less damage.”

🎯 Tone Tips (Important)

  • Keep it under 2–3 minutes.
  • Sound local, not corporate.
  • Don’t oversell — confidence comes from being calm.
  • Smile while speaking — it changes your tone.