So whether you’re just getting started or are at the point of taking a step back and remapping your destination, here are a couple of questions to ask yourself:

-         What is my mission?

• Whether representing an established corporation or simply yourself, every person should have a mission statement in place that includes the “what,” “why,” and “how”:
  • WHAT am I doing for my customer?
  • WHY is this important?
  • HOW can I – in specific, quantifiable terms – accomplish the desired result of customer satisfaction?

-         Where is my budget?

• If there are uncompensated expenses, what are they? If you’re starting a business, how long can you financially sustain yourself without a sale?

-         Who can I cheat from?

• There’s really no such thing as copyrighted ideas when it comes to selling. Therefore, envision someone you know who is already successful – ideally in a similar or identical industry – and emulate them.

-         Am I being realistic?

• As inferred earlier, there is no quick fix solution. Some salespeople are quick learners and can memorize a script or pitch in a matter of minutes, but may lack the confidence or people skills to close the deal. Others may excel and communicating and building emotional value but fall short on substance. Whichever category you fall into, expect your strengths, but accept your weaknesses. Meaning – sustained success requires sustained practice. Give yourself the time you need to be who you feel you should be.

 

People – especially those on the outside – take for granted how much goes into selling a product or service. Before turning to the next great best selling self-help guide or signing up to see that eloquent motivational speaker, make sure you don’t fall into the “chocolate” mentality: briefly satisfying, but leaving you wanting more.

Instead, take things one bite at a time, and you’ll be sure to quench your appetite…and eventually your bank account…