Do you have to sell your soul to be successful at selling???

I have had at least 3 people on separate occasions over the past few days tell me, "I am not a salesman". They said that they didn't like it, they were bad at it, or they didn't like rejection.  I can relate.  Until about 6 or 7 years ago, I didn't consider myself a salesman. Looking back, I've probably always been a salesman.  To a certain extent, we all are.  Job interviews, first dates (and subsequent dates for that matter), and school elections are all a form of selling yourself. Selling in its most basic  form is simply persuading someone to make the decision you think is best.

When I became a salesmen as a profession, my worst nightmare was being viewed as a sleazy car salesman(check out the picture). This fear, actually slowed me down quite a bit. Most people would say this is a good thing. Who wants to sell their soul, lie, cheat, or steal just to make money? 

When I finally realized that I didn't have to compromise my integrity to sell, things started to change.  There was an art to being a good salesman.  If you were able to master this art while still operating ethically, you could find great success.  A great sales person wants their customer to believe that they have their best interest at heart. Some may ask, how do you do that? 

It's easy - actually have their best interest at heart. Talk to your customers. Find out what matters to them. What are their needs? 

Highlight what makes your product different from your competition. Describe how your product meets their needs. Present options.  Make it easy for them to buy.

So rather than sell your soul by doing something unethical or immoral; sell from your soul! Treat your customers with decency and respect. Know your product and be your clients trusted adviser.

One last thing - in sales there is always a fine line between doing what is best for you and doing what is best for your company.  It is a difficult balancing act; but it is more than possible.  Great sales people are able to toe the line, without crossing it.

Happy Selling!