Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #624

Stepping Over the Edge

The Right Thing to Do

Part of my branding effort includes obtaining media interviews.  It was only after I applied that I learned I would be speaking to ex-felons who are now seeking work in the frenzied job market.  I wondred how I would be able to bridge my interviewing material to their interest plus provide the insight they needed.  This was a brand new audience for me.

Rodney Mathers, show host of The Journey of Hope, did a very good job of asking the right questions leading me to the right track.  One question in particular was significant.  He asked,

“Sooner or letter the prospective employer will know the applicant was incarcerated so how should this be addressed?”

My response was (and this applies to any objection or limitations in what you have to offer in the business world):

“Honesty is the best policy.  Furthermore, do NOT wait to be asked.  As soon as the serious conversation begins, address it upfront.  By not addressing the circumstance, the facts will be found out and trust will vanish as will the possibility of being hired.  For those previously imprisioned, trust will be one of the biggest issues.  Being forthright is the only way trust can begin to develop.”  

The answer was well received and the conversation became swift and appreciated on all sides.  Most importantly, I felt good about having provided a service to those very much in need.  Reciprocating, Rodney shared with his audience that they would find much more information in my two books, “HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews”, and “Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results“.

Consider the space you are in, what service may you provide that will help those truly in need?  When we all work toward helping others as well as ourselves, we improve the circumstances of many and just may contribute to picking up the economy.  And you will most certainly enjoy a very Smooth Sale!

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