Have you ever thought that dogs are much better equipped for a sales job than many people? The fact is that dogs would probably not make perfect sales people, because they bark too much. On the other hand - don't many salespeople do that too? But let's look at what qualifies an average dog to become an above-average sales person.
- They can sniff every opportunity. A piece of good-smelling food anywhere nearby, and they are absolutely determined to go after it.
- Absolute confidence. Have you ever seen a chihuahua jumping after a sleuthhound? Certainly the little dog does not mind that its size has a little chance to win, it will just try over and over again. How many times do you happen to have to call to an executive, and you constantly procrastinate the task because you are afraid? Don't worry, go for it, try.
- They do not understand rejection. Shout at a dog and you may stop thenm for two seconds. Then they return to their original behavior, as if nothing at all had happened.
- They are relationship-oriented. Consultative selling would not be necessary for dogs. They are very sensitive to any positive or negative signals of people's body, tone of voice and facial expressions. They are happiest when they see that you approve.
- Full of energy. Look at any dog that retrieves a tennis ball. Running for the ball the twentieth time is as fast as the first time. Try to be this persistent in cold calling, your results will be amazing!
- They are always happy and optimistic. There are many time that salespeople feel discouraged. But dogs have it otherwise. Even if you they don't get their treat, they go on happily, and believe that their time will come.
- They appreciate the one who feeds them. Although we are not perfect, dogs are utterly loyal to us. Can salespeople do the same with their managers, do they always stand for the company? Or in relation to customers - even when a customer is wrong, do salespeople realize that they are still their customer, so they need to be taken seriously?
If you have a dog at home, try to sometimes see it as a source of inspiration at work.
-th-