Asking for the order seems like such a simple notion, so why do so many salespeople have difficulty with it? Asking is necessary. Asking is expected. Closing the sale is dependent upon it.
Asking for the order seems like such a simple notion, so why do so many salespeople have difficulty with it? One of my favorite mottos is "if you don't ask, you don't get." It is a very clear, concise and true statement of faith. The simple truth is, the answer is usually "no" unless you ask, and ask you must if you expect success.
In preparation for the publication of my latest book, Superior Selling Skills Mastery, I contacted several noteworthy and accomplished authors and speakers in the selling field, seeking their testimonials for my work. I chose people of extraordinary talent, wonderful success, superior notoriety and stellar reputation. Not surprisingly, three people have responded so far, one of which is still reading but promised a glowing testimonial.
"Not surprisingly?" Yes. I expected to hear from these leaders in our field. I believe that "the cream rises to the top" and one prominent reason industry leaders often are positioned where they are because they are interested in others. They are approachable, however you must be willing to ask for their assistance. You can read their testimonials on my blog.
I asked. They responded. If I would not have asked, it is unlikely that I would have received their testimonials. After all, how could they have known? Their recommendation and testimonial are both a valuable and necessary component of my marketing plan, a component I would surely miss if I had not asked.
Asking is critical, no matter your industry, field or circumstances. Whether it is help you seek, a review of your progress, an assessment of your skills, an opinion or an order that you are seeking from a customer, you must ask for it. Asking is necessary. Asking is expected.
Asking completes the selling process. It is closing the sale. Without it, all that has previously transpired means little, a mere transference of information. Giving away information and polite conversation are not bad things, but they will not pay your bills. Without the close, conversation is all you have. You must close the selling process; you must ask for the order.
Your customers expect you to close. They expect you to ask for their business. Many will not simply offer it to you because you are nice. Ask. Someone else will be asking for their business if you neglect to. Do not be hesitant. Ask confidently. Ask expectantly and receive.
Selling Means Maintaining an Open Communications Channel
None of us can be experts in everything. Customers appreciate being able to speak their language and having their audience understand it. In this manner, they feel confident that there is an open communication channel and their needs are clearly understood. What steps are you taking to ensure that you clearly understand your customer.
Are you Experiencing Sales Growth Despite the Economic Times?
The volatility of the present economic climate has left many people, including salespeople, in a state of fear and uncertainty. We now have the highest number job losses in five years as business are trimming both people and operations. How do you sell in this environment?
How to Sell Successfully in a Recession
Downward trends are indeed a stressful time posing numerous challenges, yet they do indeed present many opportunities. What is there to do when you are a salesperson needing to make a living in such a mess?
