090 – "HELP! I Don't Want to be a Salesperson!"
Many people regard selling as a less than respectful occupation even though we all engage in the selling process on a daily basis. Unfortunately, most of us have had a negative sales experience. For example: If a salesperson has ever treated you dishonestly or misrepresented a product or would not take no for an answer, this could leave a bad taste in your mouth about the sales profession.
Those of you who are actively running your own business or have chosen sales as your profession understand that it is impossible to succeed without a clear sales process. To engage your prospects and customers in a positive manner, providing solutions and quality with your product and service can be one of the most fulfilling and exciting ways to make a living.
Today’s marketplace is changing and I have the opportunity to coach entrepreneurs who are planning to leave their traditional job to seek self employment. They have an expertise in a particular area and want to market that skill to a prospective audience. When it comes time to develop their sales process, they become concerned about how they will be received by their prospects. Especially when it is time to ask for the money.
Here are few things ask yourself as you develop your sales process:
- Does your product or service have value? Does it solve a problem and provide a want or need? If so, present it proudly.
- Is your offering worth the price? If it has value, they will pay for it. Remember that your prospect understands that there is a cost associated with it and they expect to pay.
- Does your personality fit your selling process? If selling is not a fit for your personality and you do not enjoy it, then you should hire someone to accomplish this part of your business. It cannot be ignored.
- Do you need help getting started? Do not be afraid to ask for help. Selling is a learned skill and reading and coaching can give you the jump start you need to make your business profitable and enjoyable.
Selling is the life blood of your business and doing it well can make you profitable and give you an excellent reputation. Treat people the way you would like to be treated and over deliver great value and you may find that selling can be fun. I certainly do.
Have a great week!
Pierce