Sell the Vision, Not the Product
- Great salespeople don’t focus on features but rather on vision. Describe the transformation—the vision of a better future that your product brings. Think about how the customer's life or work will be different and better once they start using it. Then, tell that story.
2. Shift from Selling to Solving
- Stop thinking of yourself as a seller. Instead, view yourself as a problem-solver. Research the customer, listen actively to what they’re struggling with, and think about how you can genuinely help them succeed. When customers see you care more about solving their issues than making a sale, trust is built—and sales follow.
3. Create Curiosity Instead of Pitching
- Instead of coming on strong with a full pitch, lead with questions and statements that naturally create curiosity. For instance, if you’re selling a new software product, say, “I can’t wait to show you how people like you are solving XYZ challenge with this tool.” This lets them lean in instead of feeling pushed.
4. Admit What’s Not Ideal
- Prospects know there’s no perfect product, so if you admit potential downsides, it builds trust and confidence in what you say next. It shows honesty and lets the prospect see you’re transparent. The trick is to make sure you follow up by showing how the pros outweigh any cons.
5. Master the Power of Silence
- People feel the need to fill silent spaces in conversations, which is a powerful tool in sales. After you ask an important question or present a key point, pause. Let the silence make the customer think and respond fully, often revealing their true feelings or concerns.
6. Use Storytelling as Social Proof
- Rather than saying, “Our product increased sales by 30%,” try storytelling: “I recently worked with a business owner who was facing the same struggle you mentioned, and in just three months…” Storytelling lets prospects see themselves in the narrative, which makes your solution feel more tangible.
7. Let Them Think It’s Their Idea
- Some of the most successful salespeople gently guide the conversation so that the customer feels the solution is their idea. Use leading questions like, “How do you see this fitting into your strategy?” or “Would this approach work well with what you’re doing?” This way, they feel more in control, which makes closing easier.
8. Follow Up Consistently with Value, Not Pressure
- The follow-up is often where sales are made, but it’s easy to overdo it. Instead of pressuring, share resources or insights relevant to the prospect’s industry or needs. Send articles, reports, or tips that show you’re paying attention. This approach keeps you top of mind without feeling invasive and gives you a reason to follow up.
9. Think of Every "No" as a “Not Yet”
- A "no" today doesn’t mean no forever. Stay gracious and ask if it’s okay to check in down the line. Timing and needs change—when you handle a rejection well, you’re often first in mind when the time is right.
10. Know Your Non-Negotiables
- Finally, know what you are willing and unwilling to do for a sale. This makes you come across as confident and self-respecting, and clients respect boundaries when clearly communicated. Knowing when to walk away can also create a powerful sense of intrigue and trust.
Sales isn’t about quick wins—it’s about creating a bond of trust and showing that you care deeply about the prospect’s success.
Go get it!