So you want to sell…

Considering a job in sales? Are you thinking it’s just until your ‘career’ takes off? Before you take that job, there are some points you should know.

Selling is probably the second oldest profession. I began selling as a kid using those greeting card catalogs that I sent for out of comic books; I wanted that poodle radio for my bed. In High School, I practiced my up-selling skills by convincing people they needed the large pizza instead of a medium. Thirty years of selling more products and services than I can count, I have some advice to those starting out. 

To be truly successful, you must be proud of being a salesman. Don’t be embarrassed by the term and feel the need to gloss this over at cocktail parties. What is Donald Trump if not an incredible salesman? People do get very wealthy by selling and no one gets bored with this line of work so never be ashamed of it.

Realize sales are a profession, not just a stop over so it should be constantly studied and perfected. Like this article, there are innumerable resources out there. Personally, I was influenced by a novel called ‘Strong Medicine’, written by Arthur Hailey; this book showed me how far a sales person can go when they try. The best place to start is to watch people who sell and analyze what you like or don’t like in their methods. There’s no shortage of examples ~ why did you buy from that guy at Best Buy? Why didn’t you buy from that insurance agent? If you are very fortunate, the company you work for has a stellar veteran that you can learn from or observe. Start looking at everything around you to figure out the approach, the target market, and the ‘schpiel’.

Be extremely cautious when choosing your field of choice. If you are the suit and tie type, don’t sell shoes or do telemarketing. Too often, we salespeople get pigeon holed so you want to be careful what jobs end up on your resume. Don’t be misled by the borderline-legal schemes out there who promise their top salesman is making six figures ~ ask to meet him! If sales are your new career path, do it with pride. I can change a band aid but that doesn’t make me a doctor…There are levels of sales so be sure you only work at a level you are comfortable with.

Finally, remember that you can be a salesman and still have ethics. Depending on what industry you land in, you will probably be building long term customer relationships. You’ll be more successful if customers truly trust you instead of cringing every time you contact them. Regardless of the product or service, people buy from you, as much as your company, so never do or say anything that can come back to haunt you after the sale.

 Welcome to the world of sales!