Sometimes it seems like you just can’t catch a break. No matter how hard you work, how well you pitch your product, you simply can’t generate a sale. You can’t let this rut frighten or discourage you. What you need to do is take a deep breath and turn to Thomas Edison and look at his creative process. When you do so, you’ll learn whole new ways to sell more creatively and hone your creative skills, using them to help you generate more sales.
Edison knew how to listen. Part of this was because he was genuinely interested in people and enjoyed hearing their stories. Another reason he was such an astute listener was because he learned that by listening to others, it would often trigger an idea. By listening to the stories your prospective clients tell, you just might pick up on something that will help you quickly create a pitch that’s bound to work. A genuine personality and respect will get you further in the conversations with clients.
Edison had fantastic people skills. It didn’t matter if he was with someone one on one, or if he was hanging out with a group of talented individuals, he knew how to connect with everyone he met. You can do the same thing. The next time you’re with a group of people take a few moments to observe them. At this point you should assume the role of the leader. Make it a point to draw each person into the group and identify the unique talents they’re contribution ads. You’re going to find this trait makes you stand out from your associates, putting you in a position to take on bigger accounts.
In addition to acknowledging the talents of your other sales associates, you need to be willing to take a step back and let them shine once in a while. For example if you have an account you can’t seem to connect with, see if someone else might be better suited for the task. After all you’re supposed to be working as a team.
The next time you meet someone force yourself to keep an open mind. Assume nothing. This was a skill Edison used to his advantage. By not making assumptions your body language won’t accidentally tell a potential customer anything that could cause them to want to take their money elsewhere.
A last piece of advice is to always try to be as humble as possible when you are out on a sales call. Read a book or two about body language and mannerisms. This investment will pay dividends!
Related Article: Stop Pitching & Start Solving Client Problems
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