Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #603

May 20, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Know Thyself

 

Two key components to successful selling are "qualifying" and "matching".  These are based upon your priorities and vision for the outcome.  The quiet time reflection will help you sort out with whom to spend your time and attention.  Otherwise, you may have a tough road ahead of you.

"Janet" admitted she took on a disgruntled person as her client.  It was rough going from the first moment of interaction.  In the end, Janet's long established business was ruined by a very poor online review posted by that client.  She had to start all over again.  Janet learned that before accepting a client, there needs to be some harmony before agreeing to the work in order to avoid such mishaps, and to instead encourage repeat business, referrals and testimonials.

Many are guilty of accepting a career change strictly for the better income but often it proves to be uninspiring or aggravating at best.  It takes longer today to find the position you desire, but if at all possible, waiting for the better fit will ultimately prove to be worthwhile.  

The side benefit of matching and qualifying preferred clients and career positions is that others will see you as happy in your work.  This goes to further developing your personal brand and will attract increased opportunities.

Matching and qualifying will serve to put you on the wave of the Smooth Sale!  

Read Addtional Strategies and Techniques:

INSPIRED Business A New Vision for Building Business and Communities, Motivational Press

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results, Sourcebooks

HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews, Career Press

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Filed Under: Business Development, clientele, clients, communication, Entrepreneurs, job-seekers, Marketing and Sales, Mindset ·

Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #602

October 22, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Leverage All You Do

 

For some the word "leverage" seems to be a buzz word. But for me it's more than that, it's a way of doing business, smart business.  It's akin to not reinventing the wheel every time you do something new, and instead building upon what you already have in place.

This technique becomes your live "Linked-In" directory. In regard to your business, as you move to new projects speak to people who have gone before you and ask for suggestions or introductions to potentially interested parties.  Should you be interviewing for a particular spot, think about all those you know in related fields.   Ask friends and associates if they know anything about the company, industry or people there to whom they might introduce you.  

The side benefits may include ideas for events, classes, and new venues.  You may invite the people helping you or those you help to participate.  By extending invitations, all parties reach wider audiences and potentially bring in additional revenue.  On the career side, you increase your potential for finding the better job.

By weaving through your networks amd building upon the relationships, you increase the odds for becoming successful.  At the same time, be certain to hold out a helping hand to those who make similar requests of you.  Using this method you will be headed toward the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #601

October 18, 2012 by Leave a Comment

True to Your Plan

 

One of the most difficult things about business is sticking to a plan and budget when exciting "opportunities" are presented.  Likewise, when people are job hunting and an incredible "opportunity" is presented, some will jump at the chance to participate.  But this is where entrepreneurs and job seekers may potentially find themselves in difficult situations.

On occasion, someone will offer to promote you across the country "if… "  Creative people particularly can see the big picture and possibilities of the proposed idea.  So they may take a chance, and unwisely invest money in the offered opportunity or business idea.  Others will waste considerable time chasing a job opportunity that proves to be disappointing at best case.  These scenarios set the individuals back in time or even cause some to go out of business.  

Remaining true to yourself and your plan is paramount before accepting any opportunity whether from a friend or new employer.  Create lists of what excites you, what your inherent talents are, and your needs.  Decide which factors are most important to you.  Upon being presented with the next best opportunity, take the time to see if the particulars match with your preferred list.  If not, decline the offer.  

As a business owner, the ability to pay all of your bills must come first; everything else is secondary.  For example, a private desk in a quiet space is almost mandatory but the type and quality is more a question of luxury.  A chair at the desk is a requirement, but an ergonomic chair may either be a requirement or a luxury dependent upon the person doing the purchasing.  Should you happen to be in a need of office furniture, the following link will take you to a site that offers many excellent options:  http://www.arnoldsofficefurniture.com

And that last sentence is the point of this blog.  You have unlimited options on how to operate a business or accept a new job even though the employment market hasn't fully picked up yet.  By remaining true to who you are, you will build your personal brand and ultimately your business.  This is what puts you on the wave of the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #600

October 12, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Are You Motivated?

 

In a recent conversation, I was asked, "What motivates you?"  

Whether on an interview or speaking to a client it is important to demonstrate in your answers that you are motivated to exceed all expectations.  How do you come across in conversation upon answering questions such as the one above?

Salespeople have an easy time with this because they are typically goal setters and super achievers.  Keeping the yearly employment review in mind, "exceeds all expectations"  and the year-end rewards, it becomes a competitive game for all.

But for entrepreneurs, "Are you motivated?" is a very significant question.  Upon starting my own business, "Overwhelm" didn't begin to describe the feeling of recognizing what needed to be learned in order to succeed.  The idea of quitting was only a fleeting thought.  I knew deep down I was Very motivated to succeed.  Not only was I willing to continually self-educate, but I networked to meet those more advanced to observe and learn from them, and I paid others to coach me on occasion.  

Motivated people do whatever it takes to move business forward and develop brand awareness.

The problem for many new entrepreneurs is they often do not know what they need to implement or even how to prioritize what they need to know.  The best starting point is a difficult dilemma for many.  Luckily many wonderful resources exist today designed to help you grow.  The internet plays a huge part in this.  Newsletter, blogs and articles on every subject are available online.  Communities on Facebook and specialized tweets on Twitter offer great information, and outstanding connections may be made on LinkedIn too.  But once again, a dependence on researching many sites and not enough time brings about yet another dilemma.

Fortunately, I was introduced to ResourceNation.com  - a wonderful site for new and experienced entrepreneurs.  Exploration led me to recognize this one site offers resources to get your business started, connected and growing.  Expert articles, Step-by-Step Guides, and Services are available on your timeline.  Additionally, the group has partnered with outside organizations that are designed specifically to help you grow such as Ladies Who Launch and Entrepreneur.com.  It's worth looking into Resource Nation as your favorite resource!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #599

October 9, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Uncovering Hidden Thought

Out on another meeting, I was amazed by the things conveyed to me and not necessarily good on the part of the executive.  The comments led me to be concerned enough to withdraw my name as a contender for business.  Unrest was evident and I didn't want to participate.

Conveying to a trusted peer what happened, John laughed and then said it was my "fault".  But "fault" in this case was a very good thing!  His take on the conversation was that I have a natural style for putting people at ease when we first meet, so much so that much is revealed.

Should you be able to do the same, on interviews you will be able to quickly see and hear warning signs of whether you wish to proceed.  The same is true for pursuing business.

Building on commonality by using story-telling relaxes people to the degree that they begin to confide.  Use this technique in interviews, and you will be Hired!  For business owners, this comraderie builds a returning and referring clientele.  Keeping the conversations private further builds trust and a long lasting relationship.  

When you are able to uncover hidden thought, it becomes a very Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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October 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Report Your Findings

 

A lay person would call the act of reporting back "etiquette", while sales professionals refer to the following sales technique as "Strategic Selling".  When you are referred to meet with someone else at a company, whether for an interview or for business purposes, it is a good idea to incorporate the following steps:

1.  Thank the person for referring you to the next party.

Politeness goes a long way and will encourage further introductions within the company.  As a potential job candidate, it will increase your odds for getting hired.

2.  Upon meeting the next party, let them know how much you appreciate the arranged meeting (giving acknowledgement to the first person) and their time.

This suggestion will put you on the track for having a quality conversation. 

3.  After the referred meeting, report back to the referring party.

Thank the person for having arranged the meeting.  Say something nice about the person wih whom you met and provide a brief recap of the conversation.  Ask if they would like you to meet anyone else within the organization.  Then ask what the next steps might be and the timeline for making a decision.

Your thoughtfulness and respect will shine through and will put you on the wave of the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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October 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Moving the Process

Whether you are in the process of selling to a client or interviewing for a job, it is important to move the process along or it will be unlikely you will ever make the sale or get the job.  So how do you move the process?

After a well-qualified discussion and insight into the other person's thinking, and should you still be interested, ask,

"Do I sound like the type of employee (or vendor) that you are seeking?"

"Do you have any lingering questions?"

"When would you like me to start (or move forward)?"

These questions get the final issues resolved and every stone is unturned.  This way there is no lingering doubt and you know where you stand.  Clients and employers appreciate the direct communication.  It signals they can count on you to move with integrity when you are working together.  

Once the relationship and trust are built, you are on your way to the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job and Clientele: Sales Tip #596

September 29, 2012 by Leave a Comment

New Career and Sales Requirements

Given I wrote HIRED! and wish to remain current on the job searching process, I did some investigation from a sales perspective.

Companies today have the leading edge as people are hungry for an income.  Candidates are likely to be more motivated to say yes and do a good job, but, read the following true story to decide if they are doing a good job Selling the positions?

Several companies in the same industry required their candidates undergo vigorous training and study – at the candidate's expense.  But it gets better.  One such company spelled out they expected their new hire to foot all car expense requiring extensive driving as well as parking and bridge tollls.  The requriements didn't stop there.  The candidate, will be required to attend many types of networking events, once again, again at their own expense.  

In other words, the job candidate would go broke long before ever making money on the job!

All sales and purchases require critical thinking.  

Is there value attached to what you are buying or selling?  If not how can you come to terms so that everyone is agreeable?

The point here is it is best to remain calm and reflective of your personal priorities before making an important decision such as accepting employment or a new client.  "Qualify and Match" are the sales terms associated with this process.  Remaining true to your personal brand and priorities will help you find the best match in either scenario.  

Lastly,listen to  your intuition as your subconscious usually knows the right answer.  When you do,  you will be headed for a smooth transition and the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #595

September 27, 2012 by Leave a Comment

The Difference Between Bragging and Branding

 

A friend asked how can she differentiate between bragging and branding.  It's a common question among beginning entrepreneurs who are not accustomed to talking about their accomplishments in crowds. The idea of talking about oneself also plagues many job seekers.   But it is a hurdle that one needs to get over to make a positive impact in the world.

The following should help make the transition into effective branding:

1.  Use a soft tone while stating the facts

No one enjoys hearing someone brag or elevate themselves above others.  So by speaking softly but demonstraing you have value to share, people will pay attention.

2.  Share what you know by teaching

Many formats are available for teaching, it isn't just classroom style today.  Even informative tweets are a form of teaching.  Posting on social media sites without links but just sharing knowledge will help you establish your brand and get noticed.

3.  Use multiple mediums 

By seeking to get word out in a variety of ways, you will reach a variety of learning styles and a far larger population.  This is branding at its best.  Again, incorporating a soft teaching style will attract many.

At the end of blogs, articles and video, let people know how they may reach you.  The information you share should encourage your intended clientele to do so.  And when you notice a change in the quantity and quality of new contacts, you will know you have implemented correctly.  This will also be your path to the Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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Attract the Right Job or Clientele: Sales Tip #594

September 25, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Customer Service Branding

 

A new lesson regarding the importance of quality customer service was learned this past weekend.  

On the inside, I was close to tears when I saw the gifts being opened at the wedding shower.  One by one, I recognized the need to ship the very heavy items back east.  I mentally calculated that the shipping would cost more than the gifts, and I was the one responsible for getting them there safely.  This was on a Saturday afternoon and we were leaving by plane early the next morning.  What were we to do?

Luckily a friend of the bride advised I take all the gifts back to the two respective stores where the bride-to-be was registered.  It was further suggested I explain the dilemma and that should they accept the returns without receipts, we would promise the same items would be purchased again on the east coast.  It was a lot to ask of the stores.

To my complete amazement, each store went a few steps further than I would ever dare to ask.  They both offered to not only take the gifts back, but to ship them for free.  On top of that they were giving patrons in-store coupons and voluntarily gave us the same.  So not only did we save a lot in shipping costs, the bride will receive her gifts without having to do anything, and she will also receive extra spending cash!

If you haven't guessed, the two stores involved were Macy's and Bed, Bath and Beyond.  They went so far out of their way for us, I have chosen to help spread the word of their incredible customer service.  This is the power of building business well so that others feel compelled to tell everyone they know about the outstanding experience.  It all leads to a continued Smooth Sale!

Read Additional Sales Techniques:

(Paperback and Digital formats)

International Best-Seller: 

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results 

and

Best-Seller:
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.

 

 

 

 
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