Can we agree in any job, position, or career path we pursue, we’re all in “sales.” Don’t think so? Look around. You’re selling yourself every day to a watching world with first impressions, in an interview, on a date, scheduling appointments, or purposing a multi-million dollar acquisition. We are the vessel that delivers the relationship, brand, product, or service.
Recall an interaction that didn’t go according to plan. Who or what do you remember most? I’d venture to say the person behind the counter, message or decision was the most memorable – their delivery, attitude, and level of concern for the outcome. In this scenario, you’re the buyer; nevertheless, you were a part of the sales process.
Still not convinced? What about the person that never makes a phone call or deals directly with the public? My response to that would be, “How’d they get the job?” How do they convince their employer they’re capable of completing tasks on time? Regardless of your position in life or work, the product we’re all selling is ourselves. Before you take this the wrong way, I’m not suggesting you’re in the prostitution business, but that you’re in sales no matter what your job title.
Last visual: Think back to when you met your best friend or spouse. What was it that attracted you to them? What was your first impression? How did that interaction go? There wasn’t a formal agreement in place before you started your conversation where you made it obvious that a transaction was inevitable. You didn’t start telling them your life story as soon as your mouth opened. (Or maybe you did!) You made a conscious decision based on perception and personal experiences to continue talking with them, and the rest is history.
What in the world does any of this have to do with “me” being in sales? While we say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” we judge nearly every book by its cover – not because we’re awful people or because we’re shallow but because life has in one way or another shaped our view of each other. “Sales” is not a bad word, but it is something we must be cognoscente of when we are engaging people. So, if we’re going to be in sales, let’s sell “Love, Joy, Peace, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control.”
(Bonus points if you can find this paraphrase.)