We have all heard the expression, “When you fall off the bike, get back on ASAP.” The sentiment easily applies to things gone wrong in our career or business, along with being motivated enough to get quickly get back up after a bike accident.
My Story
Easter Sunday proved to be a beautiful day on the east coast. The gorgeous trees are in bloom, and some decorate the bike paths. So my husband and I took a long bike ride to enjoy the beauty while getting some exercise. It was a great ride until…
Like most mishaps, I made a misjudgment and took a tumble. Thankfully I landed in the dirt. But my arm was in pain. Fortunately, I am ambidextrous, and so I quickly got back on the bike to pedal home, clean up, and visit the E.R.
Client Familiarity
A summary report was provided and hence the tie-in with career and business. A box was entitled “Patient Goals, ” and in that box, it was written, “None.” What?!
First of all, yours truly has been setting goals since grammar school, and secondly, I designed the laser goal setting system to accomplish more in less time. I do not remember the question being asked of me, and the staff was certainly not familiar with their temporary patient.
The Plan
Having been through many types of previous challenges, I knew it was essential to get back on the bike to ride home. Upon returning, I made an initial plan, later refined it, and then established next steps for my full recovery.
The day after the E.R. visit, I met with an orthopedist who thankfully described the pain as due to a cracked elbow without broken bones. And then the two of us spoke of goals and negotiated a plan of action. He was my type of doctor!
Negotiate the Plan
A. I asked about typing on the computer. The doctor agreed it was a good exercise for my fingers.
B. I asked about the sling provided the night before indicating it disturbed my sleep. He agreed I didn’t need to wear it.
C. We both decided that I should do a little bit more each day to enhance movement but to hold back when pain strikes.
All conversations designed to find a solution require a meeting of the minds. Getting varied perspectives to meet half-way is similar to the traditional business meetings seeking a satisfactory negotiated outcome for all.
Your Story
No doubt challenges arise every week, and some are easier to face than others. The question is, do you have room for improvement to handle future episodes? Here are some ideas for consideration:
- Look at all sides of the problem before responding.
- Determine the effort you are willing to do and then set guidelines to negate all else.
- Maintain motivation by getting back on your “bike” as quickly as possible.
The logistics of everyday problem solving may apply to the simplest of conversations. Out of nowhere, you may find yourself on a different path due to a newly formed vision or experience that has you seeing a different perspective.
One important piece is to recognize what isn’t working right for you, create a flexible plan and then move forward to avoid a stalemate and loss of motivation. Equally important is to hold true to your authentic style and maintain a consistent identity of your personal brand.
Sales Tips:
- Pause when problems arise.
- Consider all aspects of the problem.
- Trace back to the point of conflict.
- Examine all viewpoints to see if the issue is fixable.
- Engage a meeting of the minds.
- Hear clearly everything that is said to determine if you wish to continue.
- Ask question to clarify nuances.
- Compare your brand and style to requests on the table.
- Make a determination if you wish to continue with the project.
- 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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