You've heard all about the end of one-directional sales pitches. Now comes the reality check. Get the heads-up with 5 insider tips right here, right now.
Change is good. Right? Well, if you're used to doing your sales presentation the same way that you did for the last 10-years, you might be dragging your feet.
Turns out, it's good news. It might not feel that way right now. That's because you, me and the lamp post share one thing in common. We tend to resist change. Don't worry. It's human nature. But you can learn to embrace change-once you see how it will make you more money, speed up sales...and be a whole lot less work than what you've been doing.
Use these 5 tips to get a jump on critical skills for sales.
1. Change Is Good
It starts as an attitude. A mind set. It grows as you realize that you'll enjoy communicating a whole lot more. Remember the key phrase: work smarter, not harder. That's why change is good.
If you're stuck on the good old days, reminiscing about a typewriter, or longing for an overhead projector...get help. Talk to an executive coach to air your feelings. He or she will hold your hand and help you make friends with the changes in sales communications.
Seriously, change is good. It's not just fashionable or posh to say it. You'll feel better once you embrace it.
2. Show and Sell
We have become an icon-driven world. Just look around. Whether on an iPad, iPhone or smart phone, you'll see icons pointing the way. Walk through an airport...you'll see visual icons. Flip through a magazine...you'll discover more. Look at websites...more icons.
Visual iconic language is a universal language. The only question is: are you speaking it?
If you want to connect with today's audience, don't wait to add icons in as an afterthought. Instead, use icons that match your audience and your topic. Discover how to speak with icons and words.
Hint: get skilled in visual storytelling. The fastest way is to learn presentation skills, taught with visuals icons, blueprints, and skills practice.
3. Mobile Conversation
A recent Reuters/Isbos poll showed that people think of their mobile phones much like they think of a new 'lover.' They hold it. They show it. They want to tell their friends and share the news.
If you're looking for instant connection with your target audience, plan your mobile sales communication. Hint: don't assume that what works in print, online or in person will instantly translate for mobile impact.
4. Infographics
Show all the information about your sales process, products and services on a single chart. Yes. One.
This technique is so effective that you're seeing it all over on the web, in advertising, and in world-class sales organizations.
If you are a solo entrepreneur, small business owner or part of a tiny sales team, don't worry. Talk to a presentation skills training company for help in developing an infographic map. Make sure you work with professionals who understands your sales needs. Otherwise you can end up spending a lot of money for a graphic designer...but end up with a pretty map that won't really do the job.
5. Balance Is Key
While change is good...that doesn't mean you must toss out everything old. Some things have a certain charm, a personal touch, and a powerful place. Some things that were once common place are now extremely rare. Hand written notes. A personal phone call. A thoughtful gesture. A person-to-person conversation.
While you're embracing new trends, new media, and new technology...balance is key. Look for how to continue human values in a digital world. Take more care instead of less. Slow down to thank your client. Slow down to write a note. Slow down to share a personal story.
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