I recently read a little blurb in the business section of my local newspaper that said people’s overall opinion of “salespeople” remains quite low. When people hear someone is a salesperson, they equate that job with all sorts of unsavory practices. The reality is, however, that many of us have to do some sort of sales in our businesses, even if we don’t really think of ourselves as “salespeople” or really want others to identify us as salespeople either (especially if they have a generalized low opinion of salespeople.) Sales skills are important for most home businesses, however, and one of the top sales skills is the ability to be convincing…
Being convincing does NOT mean tricking and forcing people to make a purchase. The word “convince” actually means to persuade, influence, and encourage. I have found that the most convincing people are those who are honest and passionate about what they are talking to. When we are really “in” to what we are trying to sell, it comes through and others pick up on it. People want to be involved with products and services that the “seller” is enthusiastic about in a genuine way. I think the most convincing sales people are NOT those who are “technically” good with all the tricks and gimmicks, but those who know what they are talking about and do it with care, enthusiasm and consideration for the other person.
In order to be more convincing, I think we need to care about our businesses AND care about the lives of our clients and customers. The more we are actually working to help people and improve their lives, the more likely they will listen to what we have to say and trust us. We have to believe in what we are doing and find a way to connect with others on a personal, honest level.
Also: Sales Skills Help in Matters of the Heart
Taking Time to Clarify and Confirm