In our previous articles we discussed sales competencies and the importance of building relationships – the first step in the “Buyer Focused” Velocity Selling System. Now we use some of those competencies to qualify opportunities by first setting specific parameters.

This is referred to as setting the ground rules. The process eliminates surprises and both parties are able to work toward a clear future. Here are a few ground rules: be 100% honest and up front; qualify by identifying the prospects time objectives and their agenda; and deal with your biggest objections up front. You must understand it is not about you, it is about qualifying them! Remember, without prospects you have nothing, so ask questions and listen intently in order to accurately qualify the prospect.

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In a recent sales and marketing industry study, it was noted that the sales representatives’ strongest sales skill is PRESENTATION, while their weakest area is HANDLING OBJECTIONS.

This is so traditional that it does not surprise me. It is a strong indication that the sales profession continues to be a “dog and pony show”. In other words, the sales representatives are more concerned about the products/services they offer, and how the sale will affect them, than they are about the customer and his/her interests or concerns.

Sales people, like all others, like to stay within their comfort zone. Therefore, they choose presentation instead of first establishing rapport with the customer. The sales representatives should instinctively set parameters; qualify the specific buying motivators; determine their financial capability and their hierarchy for decision making. Upon completion of each of these steps, then and only then, is it time for the presentation.

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Sales Are Flat-Lined, Buyers are Slow to Buy, Sales Cycles Are Too Long, Lost Control of the Sale Process, Bottom Line is Behind Projections…

If this is true, you must appreciate that sales revenue is the life line to your bottom line. Without buyers, there are no sales. Without sales, there are no revenues. The world revolves around sales, but more importantly, it now needs to revolve around buyers. Buyers are everywhere. What are you doing to help them buy?

The economy brought on a shift from selling during the boom times to attracting, engaging and empowering the new economy of buyers to buy.

Traditional and consultative sales methods no longer work. The sales cycle is longer than need be and the margins are dropping.

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It is common knowledge that people buy from people they like and trust. Your first objective in a sales call is to gain the prospect’s trust and in the process, get them to like you. This is known as rapport and it is the first step in this eight step Sales Process.

Without trust, prospects will mislead you and will not honestly answer your questions. You will be wasting valuable time. Traditional sales techniques can no longer be applied as most potential clients are well aware of that type of sales approach and will avoid you at all costs.

Yes, you are the most important person in the world, nonetheless, when you have a customer in front of you, he/she becomes more important. Your customer must become your priority.

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