Marketing efforts can only be as effective as your ability to bring a sales transaction into a successful close. Whether you are selling an actual product, a concept or a service, being able to convince your prospect is a skill that can be learned and practised. Many become sharp at selling as they get more experience at it.
It is inevitable to feel some apprehension whether you are a newbie or have done it before. You can seek the advice of experts and learn from experienced entrepreneurs like peers and members of EO Melbourne. A few tips can help you face a target client and make your way towards success.
Research your assignment
One of the successes of a sales pitch is your extensive knowledge of your brand and product as well as your ability to assess your prospect. They say that “knowledge is power”, and this particularly works in sales and marketing. Know your business by heart, gather data and information, understand your consumer base and update yourself with the trends and happenings in your industry and location.
Focus on objectives
Before you make your pitch, review your objectives and aim. While doing the pitch, you might make compromises along the way in your eagerness to close a sale. Remember the value that you can offer and the corresponding benefits it can give to your lead. Don’t short-change yourself and never forget your corporate vision and mission, as well as your long-term and short-term goals.
Offer a solution to a problem
The best way to approach a sales scenario is to position yourself as someone offering a solution to someone else’s problem. Your product, idea or expertise is only a tool to address a prevalent concern. A convincing presentation will help your prospects recognise the value you are giving them. Once your clients understand this, they will look at it as an investment rather than an expense.
Listen to feedback
When you are pitching your sales points, bear in mind that it’s not a one-way conversation. You can formulate your strategy depending on how the other party reacts or responds to your offer. Listen to what they are saying, get non-verbal and underlying hints, especially when you sense some doubt, apprehension, objections or complaints.
Tailor fit your strategies
Getting the pulse of your prospect will lead you to come up with an effective strategy that can close your sales pitch. While there are several techniques in cinching a sale, remember that good relationship with your client or lead is key that will guide you in the right direction. Mutual trust is a pillar that can bridge the parties together. Depending on the situation, you can provide alternatives, ask questions, share testimonials, stress the urgency to avail of your offer or allow your customer to test your offering. If one technique hits a blank wall, you can try other methods that will bring you to a successful deal.
Now, if you feel you still need to hone your sales skills, try it out with your colleagues, friends and family. Confidence is an important ingredient in locking a sales deal. When you feel good about yourself and your offering, it will radiate to others and will assure them that they’re talking to the right person.