Are You Spontaneous Enough for Growth?
Being in business trains us to always check the facts before proceeding to avoid unnecessary calamities. However, we also need to incorporate the opposite trait for sales growth, hence, the question, Are you spontaneous enough for growth?
First and foremost, being spontaneous demonstrates that we are listening fully and that interest lies ahead for taking thought to the next level for the benefit of all. Moreover, it makes our encounters more joyful. The underlying theme is to show you enjoy your work and encourage others to see the positive. Embracing spontaneity in our work and social presence can open doors wide for new opportunities and to see possibilities ahead.
Work does not always need to be serious business; moreover, when we enjoy what we do, and clientele can sense it, the magic appears. Typically, sales representatives memorize questions to ask prospective clients without putting some ‘skin in the game.’ Yes, I always viewed aspects of sales as not only a game but a highly enjoyable one. There were days I couldn’t believe I was earning commission for having fun-filled conversations with my clientele. Very few other representatives found the same due to the lack of spontaneity.
Examples of Spontaneity on Sales Calls
- Be the train off the track.
Instead of asking routine questions, I would inquire whether a person enjoyed their work and how they decided to enter the field.
Our conversations became professionally personal, with an equal exchange to get to know one another. Comments on their end frequently brought previous experiences to mind that had us laughing out loud together. Laughter was my secret sales strategy, creating a tighter bond between us.
- The offer of food is always well-received.
When people responded that they didn’t have the time, I would reply, ‘How about I bring in coffee with a treat to save you enough time to have an introductory conversation?’ Upon receiving noteworthy business, I always treated the client to a relaxing, gourmet lunch.
Rarely is something 100%, but I cannot remember when my offer was ever turned down. The gesture develops a two-way appreciation and long-term business. - Humor on both sides of the table to earn what you want.
COVID shut down a vacuum cleaning service for a long while. Needing help, I visited the office. The gentleman said they have been short-handed since the pandemic, and he cannot help with cleaning the vacuum. Instead, he gave me instructions and added that alcohol would add the finishing touch.
With a smile, I replied, ‘Oh, that’s great; you mean I can use Vodka to clean it!’
The man laughed aloud and said, forget what he just said. To then say, I’ll do it for you!
Tasteful humor is one of the better ways to intrigue prospective clients, and most often in our social networks. People need a break from their everyday duties, and laughter does the trick. Even better, humor may provoke new ideas for partnering and extending introductions to grow your networks and business.
It’s best to accept that most people first notice the demeanor of the other person or people in front of them. Memorization often has people looking up at the ceiling to recall the following words instead of directly at the person speaking. Accordingly, your new acquaintance or business prospect will notice you aren’t listening and soon bow out of the conversation.
The better approach is using a smile, being seen as seemingly energetic, and your curiosity will catch the attention of most, aligning with spontaneity. The same applies to social events, networking opportunities, and business development. Accordingly, you will be likely to experience The Smooth Sale!
Sales Tips: Are You Spontaneous Enough for Growth?
- Instead of focusing on the need to recall questions, focus on the people in front of you to grow networks.
- A relaxed nature with the desire to learn about the people you meet wins over more attention every time.
- Sharing coffee and a snack relaxes the conversation and encourages a more engaging one with more than specific facts to share.
- An additional goodwill gesture is to send an e-card thanking people for their time spent with you, which is always well-received.
- When people come to mind on a holiday, send an e-card to wish them well.
- Goodwill gestures go a long way to promoting you and your work, plus confirm trust in you.
- Upon meeting with an introduction from another, send a positive note of thanks afterward.
- Ask others what they are working on and aspire to achieve to connect on a deeper level.
- Before ending a meeting of any type, ask if there are remaining questions or whether you may be of assistance now or down the road.
- Celebrate Success!