Did you ever have days where you look in the mirror and say what is wrong with me? Do you ask questions such as: why isn’t the phone ringing? Or why are my clients ever happy?
Here is the answer to your questions. It just might be you! Attitude is everything in the sales and customer service business. Individuals invest in whom they know and trust. Those with bad attitudes simply do not win; they remain in the stands with the spectators.
Attitude is more than your smile; it is your articulation, your presentation, your poise and your presence. Consumers do not want to engage with sloths, they want real conversations/relationships with those that offer value. Your mannerisms, your clothing, your passion and your conviction are integrated into your “Attitude Package”.
Engaging with prospective and existing clients requires an engaging smile, an empathetic manner and great listening skills. I am reminded of a former sales director who frequently spoke when the prospect did. Not only is this rude but you cannot hear objectives while the other party is speaking.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind to aid you business development success:
1. Love what you do. You must have passion for your company, the industry, the products, the services and the people. Any apathy is clearly displayed to the client.
2. Cheap suit syndrome. A great mentor and coach, Alan Weiss of Summit Consulting has always told me that great business professionals are well groomed, own good pens and articulate well. Meeting economic buyers requires presentation skills that differentiate from the competition.
3. Energy. Attend a party and you will notice the gregarious person from the wallflowers. It is not necessary to light up an electric grid but enthusiasm for products and services is required.
4. Check your baggage. We all carry a surplus of personal and professional garbage. No one cares. Learn to compartmentalize and enjoy healthy client interactions.
5. Interact. Listen, ask a question listen again. Good listening skills stems from a voracious appetite for current events and the world around you. Be well versed in your surroundings.
6. Self Mastery. Great attitude comes from your self-confidence. Attend meetings and seminars to become more learned.
7. Appreciate what you have now. Everyone is busy and many feel as if they are in competition with friends, peers and colleagues. Stop and enjoy life for a while, it goes too quickly. Celebrate even the smallest of success.
Without a proper attitude, one will hit numerous speed bumps. Slow down and take a good look in the rearview mirror to determine if you are the hindrance to your own success. Overhaul your attitude and you just might seek a wider road, less obstacles and much more opportunity.
©Copyright. Drew Stevens PhD. All rights reserved.
