Build your network - not just sales

 

As a sales leader, you know that building strong relationships with your customers is essential to driving sales. But what about the leaders in other organizations? Can building relationships with them be just as important?

Absolutely! The power of networks cannot be overstated, and the relationships you build with leaders in other organizations can have a significant impact on your success.

For one, these relationships can help you learn about new trends and developments in your industry. By networking with other leaders, you can gain valuable insights into the challenges they're facing, the solutions they're using, and the strategies that are working for them. This knowledge can help you stay ahead of the curve and adapt your sales approach to better meet the needs of your customers.

Moreover, building relationships with other leaders can help you expand your customer base. As you get to know other leaders, they may introduce you to potential customers who could benefit from your products or services. These introductions can be invaluable, as they come from a trusted source and can help you establish credibility with new customers.

But how do you go about building these relationships? The key is to be authentic and genuine. Start by attending industry events and conferences, where you can meet other leaders and engage in meaningful conversations. Don't be afraid to ask questions and share your own experiences, as this can help you build rapport and establish a connection.

You can also use social media to build your network. Connect with other leaders on LinkedIn and Twitter, and engage with their posts and content. By participating in conversations and sharing your own insights, you can demonstrate your expertise and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry.

Finally, be sure to follow up with the leaders you meet and stay in touch. Send a friendly email or message to say thank you for the conversation, and ask if they would like to grab coffee or lunch sometime. By staying connected, you can continue to build your relationship over time and unlock new opportunities for your business.

Building relationships with leaders in other organizations is a powerful way to drive sales and stay ahead of the competition. By leveraging the power of networks, you can gain valuable insights, expand your customer base, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. So get out there and start networking today!

It's Ok to lie!

It's OK to lie -- just a little. Not really. Lies have an interesting way of catching up with you. Whether you are lying to your manager, co-worker or your prospects, you will find it's really much better to tell the truth -- even if you risk losing an account.

As a salesperson, your reputation and credibility is the key to success. Be truthful with everyone, even on minor issues so that you will be trusted throughout your relationships.

The Biggest Sales Lies , By: Schiffman, Stephan, Reisner, Michelle, American Salesman

I think this applies to normal people as well, across functions. Credibility and integrity are the only assets that you carry with you all the time. Its more relieving to go to bed with your conscience clear, knowing that you are not a crook.

Do u know wat you are selling?

Why I hate Nike!

The other day we walked into Nike store in Begumpet, Hyderabad to buy a Tee as a Bday gift for a friend. The store was empty and the salesmen were looking at each other but none made an attempt to walk forward and usher us in. It was a weekday and we were the only customers in the store. So what would you expect if the store was full!

Finally one of the salesman came along. It took a good 5 minutes for him to be pushed towards us. By this time we reached the Tees section in the corner of the store. The lights were not yet on in this corner. The salu didn’t wish us and looked tired and dis-interested. He was shabbily dressed and unshaven. There was no price tag on a particular Tee we picked up and when we asked about the price he went on to ask for the size we needed! When my friend mentioned ‘M’ he smiled sarcastically and said, “M!!? You would need an XXL!” This was where the threshold was reached and we walked out.

Customers don’t expect you to be sarcastic at them. You need to be polite, smiling, welcoming and more than happy to serve. After all customers are the people who GIVE you the business and not the other way round. The way you dress, talk, look MATTER. The way customer is ushered in, helped and enquired decides whether the customer will comeback or not.