Attract the Right Job or Clientele:
Good first impressions are known to be essential for a continuing journey of goodwill. But an equally important fact is to initially convey your limits in terms of capabilities, and what is beyond your scope. The scope may refer to both time allotment and expertise.
My Story
With a sales background, and my belief that “Trust is the Soul of Sales,” I strive never to mislead anyone. Instead, I carefully explain what I can do and what I need to decline. When rejection becomes a requirement on my end, I provide reasoning so that my perspective is fully understood and more likely to be accepted. The honesty and reasoning become my foundation for business development and relationship selling.
It was with complete surprise as I listened to the opposite tactic shared by Regina, a highly talented person, and is bombarded with requests. Regina also strives to help communities in need as that is her passion. She is known for putting in very long hours on the behalf of others. The only problem is, her body suffers from pain as she sits in front of the computer.
Abe Lincoln’s words come to mind, “You can’t please all of the people all of the time.” Our health comes first, and it is the only way to maintain our strength so that we may serve others well. The better solution is to lay out the parameters for everyone to know what they may expect.
Just as with a sales call, it is best to confirm all of the requirements for working together to be certain everyone is in agreement. Now, the first impression is of potential leadership along with admiration for integrity. The upfront disclaimer also applies to job interviews. By answering questions truthfully, one is far more likely to be hired.
Without an upfront agreement, frustration and overwhelm take hold. The next step to the downward spiral is that quitting will quickly come to mind. With an understanding in place, as you reach a time limit or requests are out of bounds, it is easy to remind those involved of your initial arrangement.
Your Story
Admitting to what you can and cannot do is a bold step, and not everyone is comfortable with taking it. In particular, when it comes to getting the needed job or the sale, no one wants to put any negative vibes in the atmosphere. However, people can detect the lack of honesty. For the intuitive, they can hear and see what is not being said. Be advised that the best sales strategy of all is to be upfront with your parameters of what you may and may not put into action.
Consider these questions:
- Is it time to rethink the strategy for commitment?
- Have clients declined further interaction?
- How are your first impressions transforming into future work?
Our previous post, “Use Time-Out to Rejuvenate and Improve Results” complements today’s story. On occasion serious thought is needed regarding future action to take.
As offers come and go, compare and contrast the ones that worked best versus those that prove to be a poor experience. Use these occasions as lessons to improve upon future opportunities. Less time will be wasted and better results will be enjoyed.
Sales Tips
- Establish criteria for accepting offers.
- Be honest with yourself about what you are able to do well.
- Communicate to others your expertise and time available to help.
- Avoid over-extending on any commitment.
- Preserve your reputation for delivering fine work.
- Take care of yourself first in order to serve others well.
- Continually review co-hosted projects to see which perform the best.
- Leverage the ventures that you enjoy the most plus had the better results.
- Strive for doing excellent work in a time efficient manner.
- Celebrate Success!
Following these guidelines will lead you to the Smooth Sale!
P.S. Send us your sales related questions to elinor@smoothsale.net.
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