Which of the following is a recommended opening line when calling a referral?

• A. Hi, is this John? This is Jeremy. A mutual friend suggested I call you, as I recently helped her with X that was causing them to X, and she mentioned you might be experiencing the same challenges with that. Is this an appropriate time to talk?
• B. Hi, I’m calling to pitch you a solution right away.
• C. Hi, I’d like to know your budget before we start.
• D. Hello, I am calling to discuss price plans.

Answer: (A)

The opening line that works best is the one that feels warm, credible, and invitation-based by leaning on a mutual connection and a relevant problem. It trustfully introduces who you are, mentions someone they know, and cites a real issue you helped solve, then checks if it’s a good time to talk. This approach lowers resistance because it comes across as a helpful introduction rather than a hard sell. It signals relevance by referencing a specific challenge, which makes the recipient more likely to listen. It also asks for permission to continue, so you’re not forcing a conversation.

Why this fits well: mentioning a mutual friend establishes trust through social proof, and noting you recently helped that person with a problem they faced creates a concrete, relatable reason for the call. By tying that problem to a potential pain they might be experiencing, you frame the call around their needs rather than your agenda. Ending with a simple check for good timing respects their schedule and increases the chance they’ll engage.

In contrast, lines that jump straight into pitching a solution, ask for budget details upfront, or state pricing plans feel pushy and transactional. They skip rapport-building and permission, which makes the call feel like a sales attempt rather than a consultative touchpoint.