- First you must create a portal to generate leads:
- This creates new markets and informs potential customers.
- It also establish brand identity and reputation.
- And encourage repeat purchases while attracting new customers.
- But strictly sticking to lead gen comes with its own limitations:
- You cannot always create the product or guarantee sales.
- No sales is complete without other aspects like customer service.
- So, keep your lead generating tools lukewarm instead of cold:
- This focuses on creating positive associations and brand awareness.
- While encouraging further research and consideration, not instant purchase.
Figurative Language:
- Philip Kotler said without marketing you’re winking in the dark: Now the analogy here is simply comparing a business without marketing to someone attracting potential customers in the dark, which goes ineffective and unnoticed.
But sales goes a step ahead, creating genuine connections with others, regardless of the lighting, is always the best approach. Here are some ways to do that:
1. Be approachable and friendly:
- Smile and make eye contact if possible.
- Initiate a conversation with a genuine opening line, perhaps asking a question or offering a compliment that doesn’t focus on physical appearance.
2. Focus on communication and connection:
- Actively listen and show genuine interest in the other person.
- Engage in a conversation that goes beyond superficial topics.
- Be respectful and avoid making any discriminatory or offensive remarks.
3. Pay attention to body language and cues:
- Maintain appropriate personal space and avoid any physical contact unless explicitly invited.
- Be mindful of the other person’s comfort level and respect their boundaries.
- If they seem disinterested or uncomfortable, end the interaction gracefully.
4. Focus on building a genuine connection:
- Look for common interests or conversation starters to build rapport.
- If you find yourself attracted to someone, express your interest directly and respectfully, but be prepared to accept rejection gracefully.
Remember, creating genuine connections takes time and effort, and it’s not about using gimmicks or relying on limited information. By approaching others with respect and kindness, you’ll create the foundation for more meaningful relationships.
We understand that you think that’s probably what a nice salesperson does, we think “nice people finish last”. It may not generally stay true, but it can raise concerns about whether being overly nice in sales leads to success. That’s why we think it’s important to find a balance between genuine kindness and being assertive to achieve successful customer interactions. Here’s what you need to understand:
Why “Overtly Nice” Might Not Work:
- Lack of Assertiveness: Being overly nice may make it difficult to address customer concerns directly or guide them towards a purchase decision.
- Loss of Respect: Customers may perceive excessive niceness as inauthentic or manipulative, leading to a loss of trust and respect.
- Lack of Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor with appropriate boundaries is crucial, and being overly friendly might blur the line.
Effective Closing Strategies:
- Focus on value proposition: Clearly articulate how your product or service directly benefits the customer’s needs and solves their problems.
- Be informative and transparent: Provide accurate information about your product or service, addressing any questions or concerns with honesty and transparency.
- Build rapport: Engage in genuine conversation, actively listen to understand their needs, and build trust through respectful interaction.
- Practice assertive communication: Clearly present your closing options without being pushy or overbearing. You can ask questions like, “Would you like to learn more about [specific service]?” or “Are you interested in moving forward with this offer today?”
- Respect their decision: Accept the customer’s decision gracefully, whether they choose to purchase or not. Offer continued support or information as needed.
Remember:
- Genuine Kindness is Key: Building a genuine rapport and treating customers with respect is fundamental to successful sales interactions.
- Balance is Important: Combine your professional demeanor with genuine kindness and assertiveness to achieve positive outcomes.
- Focus on Value: Always prioritize highlighting the value and benefits your product or service offers to the customer.
By following these strategies, you can effectively close sales while maintaining professionalism and genuine customer interaction, ensuring a positive experience for both parties.
Overall, we encourage businesses to utilize advertising effectively to increase brand awareness and influence consumer behavior, but acknowledge that it’s just one piece of the success puzzle. Sales always does the heavy-lifting.
