Death Of A Salesman

My name isn’t Willy Loman, and I’m not suicidal. I am however, leaving behind a chapter in life that’s taught me a few things I can use in the future. Account Executive is the title found on the bottom of my emails, but lets be real…I’m a sales-guy. I spend my days talking with HR managers and recruiters about their hiring/recruiting needs. I share our features & benefits, convincing them they’ll find no better place to fill those needs than at one of our career fairs! Some take part, but the majority don’t. Sales is a a numbers game. Still, it has it’s rewards. After all, who doesn’t feel good after you’ve just talked with someone for 5 minutes and now paid your cell phone bill for the month.

(Photo by Dave Caudil)

But back to the whole death thing. This is my final week at Ineedajob.com, before she gets a kiss on the cheek and a, “Welp, see ya later!” When I think about it though, I’m really just embarking on a new kind of sales position. My new email tag will simply read, Teacher. I’ll have to prove and convince a new boss and co-workers I know what I’m doing, and more importantly, sell a portion of America’s youth on world geography and historical events. And as with any “sales” job, we’re all in search of the best way to market and advertise our product/service. As a first year teacher, my marketing campaign will have to be great!

Below are a few lessons I’ve learned that I plan on taking into the classroom on my new “sales job”…

Reward Your Target Audience - The kids that show they appreciate your service and efforts deserve recognition, don’t they? Without playing favorites, you can surely find a way to keep your customers wanting more and later becoming your best refferals. They’re great resources to convince non-buyers.

It’s a Numbers Game - The #1 cliche of sales is certainly true. Not everyone will buy into, or be interested in what you have to say/offer. That doesn’t mean you quit or give up though. That doesn’t mean a “NO” stops you in your tracks. It may often be a moment of bad timing, or perhaps just a cost they can’t factor into their budget. Some will buy, and you’re always looking to raise that number!

You’re Easily Forgotten - In my mind, I remember our conversations and those moments I almost made the sale. That same knowledge isn’t always shared by the other end. Out of sight, out of mind. To resolve this, it’s necessary to keep in front of people/students, and always be on their radar.

Call Reluctance Kills! - It’s easy to get discouraged and back away. It’s never real difficult to retreat. The seed will die if it isn’t cultivated…always. A follow up is required for growth, and a “NO” can’t change your attitude or overall objective. You’re there for the sale, and again, to have as many buyers as possible. There’s never enough.

Ask For the Sale - Sure, the features and benefits might be great, but not everyone will say, “sign me up.” It may take different approaches or a little push to get the results you want. Be careful to not be over-bearing, but it should be known…I want your business!

Wish me luck!