Making your sales goals in a good year is one thing, but attaining them in a difficult year is an entirely different challenge. Putting aside the common cliché that when times are tough, great salespeople are made, the reality is that making your goals puts more money in your pocket. Therefore, I keep reminding salespeople to think of how many times in the past they've watched … [Read more...] about How to Achieve Your Sales Goals Even in a Tough Economy
Sales Mistakes: When to Stop Talking When Selling
I'll never forget the first time it happened to me. The presentation with the customer was going well. I had prepared extensively. In fact, I had not just spent more time than normal, I had stayed up nearly all night to make sure I had every element covered perfectly in my presentation. For me, this sales call was going to be a huge success. My boss had told me this was going … [Read more...] about Sales Mistakes: When to Stop Talking When Selling
Selling a Price Increase in a Soft Market
Selling a price increase can be difficult in nearly any type of situation, but trying to sell one in a soft market can be downright brutal. Yet, as unpleasant as it can be, it is often essential. The problem of selling a price increase in a soft market usually stems from the fact that the salesperson and the customer are coming at the situation from different perspectives. … [Read more...] about Selling a Price Increase in a Soft Market
Price Increase: How to Sell to Your Customers
We've all had to deal with price increases in one form or another. Similarly, many of us have been faced with a belligerent customer who not only is unwilling to accept your price increase, but also threatens to switch to your number one competitor. When this happens, we're often left with the feeling that our career is on the brink of imploding. But, don't panic! Take a deep … [Read more...] about Price Increase: How to Sell to Your Customers
Sales Motivation: Are You Driven to Distraction?
Now more than ever, you need to stay tightly focused on your goal if you expect to keep your level of sales motivation up. It becomes far too tempting to start chasing after the latest trend when things are not happening at the rate you expect them. We've all done this at one time or another. Sales slow down and suddenly, a new customer appears, a new product comes out or a … [Read more...] about Sales Motivation: Are You Driven to Distraction?