When you are walking down the aisles of the grocery store or shopping for a new car, you probably think of yourself as the “buyer.” When you are trying to sell your goods and services in your home business, you most likely think of yourself as the “seller.” Being able to wear both hats simultaneously and think of yourself as both consumer and seller can be a great way to make you a stronger business person (and a more disconcerting buyer.)
Think of it as being able to see both sides of the same coin—if you are able to look at your products and services as your customers do, then you are in a much stronger position. Keep in mind what you are looking for as a consumer (value, quality, service, etc.) as you work with your customers and clients and attempt to make sales. You will likely also find that operating your own business makes you a stronger and more careful buyer—you will be able to understand where the salesperson or business is coming from and be able to adjust your own behaviors and expectations accordingly.
As a seller, knowing what your customers want and how they are thinking is a real advantage. By thinking like a buyer when you are trying to make a sale (either a product or a service), you can target your pitch and adjust your delivery to really make sure you meet the customer’s needs. It can take some practice to be able to move smoothly between both identities. We tend to think of ourselves as either one or the other (a buyer or a seller) at any given time. But, being able to fluctuate and see both sides at the same time—makes us stronger and more skilled businesspeople.
See Also: Seller’s Market Vs. Buyer’s Market–Understanding the Basics
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