Recently, I was reading a blog post by Allan Young titled “I Can Only Seel What I Like”. This lead me to think deeper and write this post.
Often time we find ourselves in situations where we have to sell (a product, an idea, a concept etc) to others that we don’t fully believe in or understand. We run into these situations at work, home and other places. I say “ Sell only that which solves your customers problem!”
It is true that the product may have a different appeal to you and the person you are selling to. But, what really matters is not the act of making a ‘sale’ but, the satisfaction of helping someone find what is right for ‘their’ needs.
When you are tasked to sell something I would recommend to first ask the following questions and understand the product:
- What is this product/idea/concepts etc?
- How will it help someone?
- What are its limitations?
- Would I buy/use it myself?
Once you are convinced of the benefits and limitation of the product that makes it easier to sell and the sale will leave a feeling of positive impact on you. So,
If you are building a community – do you get energized by the goals of your community and did you join it yourself?
If you a selling a gadget – would you use it yourself, do you understand the limitations?
If you are selling an idea or a concept – do you fully & truly believe it will work – what are its limitations & assumption?
And most important thing then is to understand the needs of your customer and find the right solution for them – that could as well be your product!
A lot of people make a living based on sales commissions - and I would like to hear their perspective. Also, what does this idea mean to you?