Have you ever found yourself using this disqualifying phrase? Either to yourself or to others? Why did you say it? Were you trying to:
Avoid the responsibility for getting others to take action and buy something?
If you’ve been disqualifying yourself as a “sales person”, let me help you to be more realistic. I believe you must “in sales” in the course of doing your job. I am NOT saying that you need to become that guy in the photo. He’s a poster child for bad sales behavior. Let me explain further by asking…
The Unprofessional Influencer
Before you say “That’s not me“, realize there are at least two types of transactions that require a buyer and a seller:
Consider type #2 and these examples of intangible, non-monetary sales.
Whether your business card has a sales related title or not:
We are all in sales.
We all have occasions when we need to influence the actions of others. As a leader, you’re regularly responsible for getting others to BUY-IN. How willing are you to embrace this responsibility? Please stop telling yourself and others that your “not in sales” and start finding ways to be more professional about your developing your ability to inspire others to buy-in.
If you’re now ready to accept the idea that your work requires you to have some form of a sales role by getting others to buy-in, I’d like to thank you for your purchase of this idea. Please come again.
For those who want to enhance their non-sales selling skills, here’s my favorite resource. Daniel Pink’s Book: To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others
While the title uses the word “sell”, the tag mentions “moving“. If you have been telling yourself “I’m not is sales”, consider embracing your role as moving others.
The book is available in most medias; paper, Kindle, Nook and Audio. Having discovered numerous nuggets in the book, I personally own both the paper and audio versions.
If you click on the book image or title link (above) and buy the book, I get a small commission as an Amazon Associate. And if you order NOW, you’ll be on your way to becoming a more professional influencer sooner than later. (wink, wink)
View my Recommended Reads Page
Tom Lemanski helps accomplished leaders unlock potential, solve complex challenges, and amplify their impact.
Effective leadership is the key to driving meaningful, lasting success in a fast-changing world.
Tom’s focus on innovative strategies and self-awareness creates transformative results for leaders striving for the next level.
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