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5 Sales Myths Debunked

A good salesperson knows, that the key to success in sales is confidence. However, we’re all human, and doubts and concerns will creep in over time. Today, we’re going to be discussing the top five sales myths that might be holding you back, and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: A good salesperson must be a slick talker

Sales as an industry is becoming increasingly sophisticated, catchphrases and lines are no longer the key to success, and are more likely to be a sign of a salesperson who talks a big talk, but does not back up their words. A good listener is far more likely to outsell a smooth talker, as they understand the needs and demands of their client, acknowledge any pain points, and are in a better position to create the ideal package.

Myth 2: Sales Is a Numbers Game

We’ve all heard the same tired lines from sales managers – ‘you call more people, you make more money’, ‘You work more hours, you increase the bottom line’, these are fallacies. Sales is not about working harder, it’s about working smarter. Take the time to understand relationships between your clients, research your target market, and understand what they need from you.

Myth 3: Take rejection on the chin

We’re all told in sales, ‘Don’t take a rejection personally, brush it off and carry on’. But this denies us the opportunity to really learn from the experience, and work out why our customers do not wish to buy on this occasion. We don’t mean that you need to be upset by every lost sale, but you do need to consider why you’ve not been successful. A good tool for this exercise is calling for anonymous customer feedback

Myth 4: Anyone can be persuaded to buy

Sometimes, people just do not want or need your product. And that is okay. Don’t bully and harangue your way into sales, customers appreciate honest and genuine salespeople. They may not need your product or service now, but if you provide excellent and respectful customer service – you’ll be the first person they think of when they do!

Myth 5: 90% of selling is having the right price

Price is, of course, a very important factor within selling. But it is not the be all and end all of sales! If you have a brilliant, in demand, product or service, people will stretch budgets to buy it. Conversely, if the product or service is not right, you won’t find a price that makes it so. Aim to perfect your offering, and then use your product to justify the price.

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