Mar 26, 2019
“When you can see people as people, they are going to want to be a part of what you have.”
-Brooke (15:16 - 15:28) Brooke Elder & NiCole EastonAuthentic Influencer Podcast
Are you stinking up the place?
No one likes getting mass emails where their name sits in the middle of a list sardined between 20 other contacts. You know the ones we are referring to. The opening introduction oozes pyramid scheme, reading something like, “you don’t want to miss out on this super opportunity.” Chances are you don’t even get past the first paragraph, maybe not even the subject line, before dragging that email straight to the trash. Was it something they wrote? Or something they insinuated? Are you possibly being offensive in your own business without even realizing it?
There are two types of offenders in this world: the finger pointers and the silent but deadlies. Both are catastrophic characters in the world of sales. Your approach has the potential to make or break, or worse, totally offend the person on the other end. For example, if you are trying to sell a product in weight loss, would you confront a heavy set woman and excitedly exclaim you have the answer to all of her problems? Hopefully not. Why? Because there is a danger in what is not publicly said when pitching a sale - insinuation. In this case, all that woman hears is you think they are fat. You must approach a buyer as a person before you approach them as a buyer. Educate yourself by authentically reaching out to avoid being offensive.
“We need to invest in people before we start accusing them of needing something.” -NiCole Easton (6:19 - 6:24)
Never make suggestions to a person or a problem you have no clue about. The objective in sales is to empower and inform, not degrade and belittle. Keep in mind, if a person is struggling with something, they have probably already exhausted a whole list of other methods. They are most likely highly disappointed and weary to experiment with the next promised miracle. However, if you genuinely believe you can help them, consider doing so by giving your product or service free of charge.
By removing any pressure of a trial and hidden fees, you stand out as an individual who is unwilling to capitalize on another’s misfortune. People are attracted to a saleswoman whose belief in the product outweighs the desire for a commission. If that person continues to show interest, you are in. However, it is crucial to wait for a response before pouncing, and be particular in your wording.
Stay clear of the Kool-Aid.
Don’t let excitement cloud your judgment and lead you to believe that your product is the solution to every problem. Pull your overzealous self in by narrowing down who you want to help and the one issue that your heart goes after. Create the ideal target that receives your full attention, and offer support by sharing your personal experience. It is much more inspiring to hear a story of success, instead of being tossed a pamphlet of nameless anecdotes, and promised results. Refuse to be conditioned and trained as a walking billboard. You are better than that.
“Don’t be the street performer. Be the front row tickets of the stadium, amazing concert. Be that.” -NiCole Easton (14:04 - 14:16)
To be a successful saleswoman you must embrace and applaud individualism. One size does not fit all. No two buyers are the same. Before assuming anything, ask questions that dig deep to engage with every unique potential buyer authentically. Let them get a feel for you and you for them. Stay mindful in your approach and rejoice in the challenge to adapt. Get comfortable by first engaging and selling to like-minded individuals. Then, over time, challenge yourself to branch out.
Remember, these are people you are talking to with hopes, dreams, and fears. Do not be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve. Letting others see you authentically will quiet their suspicions that you are only after a sale. Validate that you care with a desire to be fully present in the front row seats.
As you examine your business this week, ask yourself the question, “Is there something I need to change in my approach?” If you have already begun to implement change, we would love to hear about your progress.
Always be aware. Stay fully engaged. Never be a stinker.
How to get involved
If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!